Richard “Harp” Harper was born Nov. 29, 1945, in Lewistown, Mont., to Wallace and Marguerite (McCann) Harper. Harp passed away on Jan. 2, 2024, in Omaha, Neb.
Harp enlisted in the U.S. Navy after high school and served during the years of 1962 – 66 and achieved the rank of E-5. After his service in the Navy, Harp started his 40-year career (1966 – 2007) in the airline industry starting with North Central Airlines, Republic Airlines and ending with Northwest Airlines. During his career, he was a bag handler, customer service representative and freight representative.
Harp united in marriage to Marlene Johnston in 1971 in London, England, at St. George’s Cathedral. After moving Marlene to Omaha, Nebraska, their family started. Harp and Family moved to Blair in 1975 where they remain today. Harp was blessed with five children; Mark (Angela) Harper from Londsdale, Minn.; Diane Harper; Melissa (Stephen) Marquez from Lincoln, Neb.; Mike Harper from Phoenix, Ariz.; Matthew (Kristi) Harper from Lincoln, Neb. Harp was further blessed with six grandchildren: Skyler Harper, Brianna Harper, Olivia Marquez, Jackson Harper, Antonio Marquez and London Harper.
Harp enjoyed life to the fullest and enjoyed many different hobbies. From beekeeping, doing magic tricks, camping at Woodland, ham radio, flying RC Model Airplanes, to love of the newest technology. Harp carried a deck of cards with him no matter where he went. He broke out the cards and would perform magic tricks to family, friends and any stranger he came across. He established many friendships throughout the world and the cruise ship industry. He loved to travel and go on cruises with Marlene and had been to six out of the seven continents. He made sure he was at the grandchildren's events from Scout BSA Ceremonies, dance recitals, birthdays and any other grandchild event he could make. He was extremely proud of all of his grandchildren's achievements.
Harp’s surviving family members consist of his wife, Marlene, children and grandchildren. His sisters Marie (Lee) Hoyer of Lewistown, Mont.; Marcie Timmons of Missoula, Mont.; Charlene (Greg) Houska of Missoula, Mont.; and brother Charles (Therese) Harper of Sequim, Wa.; many nieces and nephews.
Harp was preceded in death by his daughter Diane, his parents, sister Anita Russell and brother John Harper.
Visitation is on Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024 at Campbell-Aman Funeral Home with family visitation from 5-7 p.m. with Rosary to follow. Funeral Service will be Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024 at 10 a.m. at St. Francis Borgia Catholic Church in Blair with luncheon to follow. A private family burial will be at Omaha National Cemetery with Military Honors. Memorials directed to the family to be designated at a later date. Livestream will be available at https://trinitycatholicparishes.org
Harp was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, sibling and friend who will be missed by all.
Arrangements by Campbell Aman Funeral Home: 444 S. 17th Street, Blair, www.campbellaman.com
