Lawrence "Bunker" Edward Harper

Lawrence Edward "Bunker" Harper, 90, of Mansfield passed away Thursday, December 22, 2016 at Mill Creek Nursing Home in Galion. Born March 1, 1926 in Mansfield, he was the son of Steward and Sarah (Mattison) Harper.

He was a graduate of Mansfield Senior High and then enlisted in 1943 in the Marine Corps for one term during World War II. He was one of the last living Montford Point Marines. He returned to Mansfield and became the first African American Police Officer retiring in 2002 following 54 years of service to the city. He was the longest serving Police Officer and longest serving Police Chief in Mansfield's history.

He was a 33rd degree Mason in the Scottish and York Rites and truly enjoyed his life.

He is survived by two sons, Dr. Reginald (Marilyn) Davis and Attorney Roeliff Eugene "Rollie" Harper; five grandchildren, Jessica Harper, Allison Davis, James Davis, Alexander Davis and Damien Davis; two great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Lee Harper on May 28, 2010; and five brothers, Calvin Harper, James Harper, Robert Harper, Charles Harper and Ralph Harper.

Friends may call from 2:00 - 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 4, 2017 at the Ontario Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 100 South Lexington-Springmill Road, Ontario with Masonic Services and F.O.P. rites being held at 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, January 5, 2017 at the Oasis of Love Church, 190 Chester Ave., Mansfield, with Dr. Walter E. Jordan II officiating. Burial will follow in Mansfield Cemetery with full military honors presented by the Marine Corps and Richland County Joint Veterans Burial Detail.