Gary Brian Harper

Gary B. Harper, of Grand Rapids, passed away at home in the early morning hours of Sunday, April 21, 2013, at the age of 70. He was loved and is survived by his wife of 51 years, Shirley; his three sons, Steve, Jim, and Tom, their spouses and partners and their families, Jennifer, Jason, and Maria; grandchildren, Kyle, Ryan, Brayden, Tyler, Natalie, and Kaleb; his brother Bob, sister-in-law Katie; his brother and sister-in-law, Mike and Sharon Teachout; his nieces and nephews, Beth Hom, Phillip Harper, Dave Teachout, Sue Heuwagen, and Eric Teachout; and numerous great nieces and nephews. Gary was born raised, and lived in Grand Rapids throughout his life. He survived his father, mother, mother-in-law, and brother (Frank and Martha Harper, Effie DeHaan and Steve Harper).

Gary was a gentle, loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, and uncle; he was a great friend to many; and he was conscientious, committed to excellence, and passionate in his career. Gary was employed with the Give-A-Wow division of Terryberry, Inc.; he had previously worked for MK, Assoc., Meridian Furniture, Howard Miller, and I.B.M. Before his career in computing, Gary taught at Northeast Junior High. Gary graduated from Michigan State University (with High Honors), and was a graduate of the 1961 class of Creston High School.

Funeral Services will be held on at 11 am on Friday, April 26, 2013 at Reyers North Valley Chapel with Rev. David Smith officiating. You may greet his family for visitation from both 2-4 and 6-8 pm on Thursday at the funeral home or on Friday one hour prior to the service.

Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to the Richard DeVos Children’s Hospital or the Ronald McDonald House in memory of Gary’s love for all children.