Robert E. Harper

Harper, Robert E. “Bob”

Age 90, passed away peacefully at his residence on Friday, December 28, 2007. He was born in Lansing, Michigan on February 7, 1917 to the late Glenn and Helen (Grost) Harper. On June 28, 1952 he married the late Dolores (Lepak) Harper. Bob attended the University of Michigan and graduated in 1949 with a degree in Economics. In 1940, Bob enlisted in the United States Army in anticipation of WWII and served for over 40 years attaining the rank of Colonel. He attended Command and General Staff School (O.C.S.), graduating with superior ratings. Bob served on the staff of General Douglas MacArthur in the Philippines and Japan.

Bob dedicated his life to the betterment of others serving as President of Junior Achievement, a Paul Harris Fellow of Rotary International and co-founder of the St. Joseph Food Program. He also helped establish a food program in Hortonville. Bob was also a member of the North Shore Golf Club for many years as well as an avid Green Bay Packers fan. Bob has been an active member of both St. Bernard’s and St. Pius X parishes.

Bob worked in the paper industry his entire civilian career. He was with American Can (Marathon) in both Neenah and New York City. He returned from the east coast to join the Banta Company and spent many enjoyable years there. Post-retirement he was asked to lead Graves Converting, Inc. as its President and CEO. Its success was one of his proudest achievements.

Bob is lovingly survived by his children: Patricia (Peter) Besser of Chicago, IL., Dr. Robert (Nancy) Harper of Hudson, WI., Margaret (Dave) Kucera of Chicago, IL.; grandchildren: Katherine, Peter Michael and Luke Besser, Margaret and Samuel Harper, Christopher, Ava and Ethan Kucera. Bob is further survived by his sister, Helen Whited of Graceville, FL. and brother-in-law, Duane Kolbrick of Vernon Hills, IL. Bob is preceded in death by his brother, Leo Harper.

Funeral services for Bob will be held at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, January 2, 2008 at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 500 W. Marquette Street, Appleton with Fr. Tom Farrell officiating. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 1, 2008 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N. Superior Street, Appleton, and again on Wednesday, January 2, 2008 at church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund had been established in Bob’s name. Memorials can be sent to St. Joseph Food Program, 1465 Midway Road, Menasha, WI 54952.

WICHMANN FUNERAL HOME
537 N. Superior Street
Appleton (920) 739-1231