Harley Pope Jr., 52, of Brookings, passed away on March 14, 2023, at his home surrounded by his loving family following a courageous battle with cancer.  Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 18, 2023, at 10:00 A.M. at Eidsness Funeral Home in Brookings.  There will be a time of fellowship following the service.  Visitation will be held the evening prior, Friday, March 17, 2023, from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at Eidsness Funeral Home in Brookings.

Harley Allen Pope Jr. was born  October 26, 1970 to Harley Sr. and Carrie (Henrichsen) in Pierre South Dakota. Harley grew up "west river" and eventually moved to Philp South Dakota where he graduated high school in 1989. He moved to Brookings in 1993 where he joined the Army National Guards.

He met the love of his life Erica (Butler) and they were married in 1998. Together, they had 3 children Nicholas, Alex, Anthony and "adopted" another daughter Tasha Summers.

Harley worked at the carwash, Falcon Plastics, Prest Rack and ended his working career at Twin City Fan where he was a CNC operator for 12 years.

Harley enjoyed fishing, camping, collecting model cars, and working on cars. Harley made friends wherever he went, he was known for his big heart to any child in need, and never turned down an opportunity to be a dad.

He loved his children, they looked up to him for advice, help solving problems, and any projects they needed done,

Harley was truly a man that everyone looked up to. He never hesitated to be a friend, was a storyteller, and a supporter to any one that may need it, even while he was in so much pain.

Harley fought very hard during his battle with cancer.  He always said that his body would give out before he would, and that is exactly what happened.

Harley is survived by his wife, Erica, of Brookings; his children: Nicholas Pope, of Brookings, Alex Pope of Brookings, Anthony Pope of Brookings and Tasha Summers of Hartford, South Dakota. His mother Carrie, and his brothers and sisters.

He is preceded in death by his dad Harley Sr. His grandparents, and his uncles Robert and Marvin Pope.