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Shirley Harper Obituary

SHIRLEY SAM HARPER

Shirley Sam Harper, A native of Connell, passed away Feb. 27, 2011, in Puyallup, WA, following a long and difficult struggle for health following a debilitating stroke.


Sam Harper was born the 8th child (the 5th son) of Charles and Florence Harper on West Franklin Street in Connell, WA, on January 30, 1934. He was the baby of the family for only a short time, however, because he had a little sister born within an hour after he came. Word quickly spread around town that there were "Two babies, twins, a boy and a girl." Two more children were born to the Harpers in the next few years.


Sam received his education in Connell, passing all 12 grades in Connell schools. He was active in all sports and many other extracurricular activities. After graduation from high school in 1953, Sam found employment on farms in the Connell area until he was drafted into the U.S. Army.


Sam served his country proudly, being stationed at various locations throughout the United States during his two-year term of service. Following his Army service, Sam returned to Connell and obtained employment with the Washington Department of Highways where he remained employed until his retirement.


During his years with the Department of Highways, Sam served at several locations including Connell, Dayton and Cle Elum.


Sam acquired three sons, Perry, Mark and Aaron when he married Ceala in 1965. Three children were born to Sam and Ceala. They are Trinka Devine (Doug), Walter and Tracy. All six children survive in addition to grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, nieces and nephews far too numerous to name in space allotted here.


Sam was preceded in death by both parents, two brothers and two sisters. Sam is survived by three sisters â€" Pat Gleich of Kennewick, Shirlene Mason (John) of Connell and Nancy Lewis (Roger) of Connell. He has three surviving brothers â€" Norval of Connell, Richard (Helen) of Salem, OR and Larry (Carole) of Connell and Arizona.


A graveside service will be held at 10:30 a.m. March 19, 2011, at the Mountain View Cemetery in Connell, WA.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Tri-City Herald on Mar. 12, 2011.

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