Don Harper

Willard Donald "Don" Harper, 69, of Cape Girardeau passed away Saturday, May 8, 2021, at his home.

Son of the late Willard Wilson and Mary Juanita Elder Harper, Don was born in Paducah, Kentucky, on Aug. 3, 1951, and later moved to Cape Girardeau. He was the loving husband of Ruth Ann Busch Harper for 43 years. Don retired as vice president of Tipton Linen Service after 30 years with the company. He was also an active member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie No. 3775 and the Cape Girardeau Elks No. 639.

Don will be remembered for his love and enthusiasm for antique clocks. He collected and repaired several hundred during his lifetime. He also enjoyed fishing, barbecues and being the life of the party. Don lived a full and exciting life, and he leaves behind many friends and family who will miss him dearly.

In addition to Ruth, Don is survived by his sons, Bobby (Bonnie) Harper and Roy (Shawn) Harper of Cape Girardeau; daughter, Candida Harper of Raeford, North Carolina; grandchildren, Ashlea Sullivan, Jonathan (Kelly) Sullivan, Kristen (Jacob) Hand and Robert (Kylie) Wright; great-grandchildren, Dakota Godwin, Mikaylee Taylor, Logan Hand, Addison Wright, Nora Sullivan, Mya Hand, Owen Sullivan and Grace Wright; and his beloved dog, Floyd.

Aside from his parents, Don was predeceased by his siblings, Shirley Buckman, Ardith Harper Dunlap, Raymond and Larry Buckman and Billy Harper; and his granddaughter, Kelly Wright.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau and also 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

Funeral will follow at 11 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home, with the Rev. Donny Ford officiating.

Burial will be at Salem Cemetery in Cape Girardeau County.

Memorial contributions may be given to American Diabetes Association, 2451 Crystal Drive, Suite 900, Arlington, VA 22202.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.