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Ronald Harper Obituary
'Ron'
STANLEY -- Ronald 'Ron' Lee Harper of Stanley joined his Lord in Heaven on April 14, 2012. Ron Harper leaves an extraordinary legacy of accomplishment, friendships, wisdom and generosity. He was born in Oldtown, MD on December 3, 1932. After high school, at 17 he joined the Marines. In 1952 at age 19, he married Katherine Hodges from Charlotte, NC. Ron and Katherine raised a family of five and spent nearly 40 years of their married life working together in the printing industry.
In 1971, they founded their own company manufacturing printing press rollers and made it a highly successful business with factories in Charlotte, NC, Wisconsin, Germany and Thailand. Ron Harper was an innovator. He made Harper Corporation the global leader in the printing roller industry and revolutionized printing quality with advanced technology. Ron Harper's business philosophies and achievements are told in one of his books 'The Harder I Work, The Luckier I Get.' There are flexo departments named for the Harpers at many colleges in the Carolinas as well as in Chicago, California and Wisconsin. CPCC has the Harper Campus 'The Harper National Flexographic Center', and manages a Ron and Katherine Harper Scholarship Fund. Appalachian State University dedicated the Katherine Harper Hall in 2007. In 2009, the Harpers generously donated funds to the Clemson University graphics department. Mr. and Mrs. Harper co-chaired a drive in 1999 to raise $1 million for flexo education in high schools and donated the first $100,000. They helped establish flexographic printing programs in 21 high schools and 32 colleges in the U.S., Canada, Argentina and Costa Rica with similar technical training programs. Mr. Harper was passionately involved with The Foundation of Flexographic Technical Association and was elected to the FFTA Hall of Fame in 1999.
Charlotte Chamber of Commerce named the Harpers 'Manufacturing Champions' in 2007.In the 1980s, Mr. Harper served as Chairman of the Democratic Party of Mecklenburg County, 1995 Gov. Jim Hunt appointed Ron Harper to the NC Education Fund board of directors. In 1997 Ron won the Governor's Excellence in Workforce Development Award. Harpers' support for Carolinas Red Cross moved the organization to name a facility that improves response time to citizens in crisis the 'Katherine Harper Disaster Staging Area.'
Ron and Katherine Harper moved to Stanley in 2008. Ron and Katherine donated matching funds to help get an interactive Smart Board in each of 2,000 classrooms in Gaston County. Ron Harper said 'I haven't seen anything that parallels the Smart Board, when it comes to creating enthusiasm, curiosity and fun-while-learning environment'. The Harpers generously financially supported the Stanley community; including the Stanley town clock, a Smart Board for the Brevard Station Museum on Main Street in Stanley; plus an upgrade to the museum. Ron's passion has been financially supporting the efforts to build Harper Park on Blacksnake Road. Ron Harper said 'It may not be the largest park in North Carolina, but it will be the best.' The Gaston Gazette chose the Harpers for the 2010 Spirit of Freedom award and they received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine State recognition from Governor Perdue in 2010.
With his wife and partner in all pursuits, Ron Harper created a guiding philosophy for his business and personal life: 'Focus only on making a profit and we will struggle. Focus on doing the right things consistently every day for our customers, our employees and our community, and success will follow.' He wrote that the important questions in his life were 'Have I made a difference in this world? And have I had a substantial positive influence on someone's life in the course of my lifetime? I pray I have.' Thousands of friends acclaim that Ron Harper has indeed made the world so much better in so many ways that will never be forgotten.
Survivors include: Katherine Harper, his loving devoted wife of 60 years, sons Danny (Lynn), Jim (Heather), Christopher; daughters Margie (Hal) Kluttz, Georgia (Derek) Patterson. Fourteen grandchildren; Ten great-grandchildren. Brothers Dick (Norma) Harper, Gary (Mona) Harper, Steve (Linda) Harper. A special thanks to Candi Lethcoe, Kim Jones and the staff at Stress Free Home Care for their dedication and care.
(continued in next column)
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Memories and Condolences
for Ronald Harper
Joel and Gloria Davis
April 18, 2019
Mr. and Mrs. Harper were good people. I loved them dearly. They always helped people- especially their employees. They were GIVERS. We were able to enjoy Charlotte Hornets games in their Skybox at The Coliseum on Tyvola road.
Jim Flanders
May 10, 2013
May 11, 2013 will be the dedication of Harper Park in Stanley NC to Ron and Katherine Harper. Ron will be there in spirit that day and everyday.
Jennie Sherrill
October 1, 2012
One of the greats have passed.
He was progressive,inclusive, and the real thing. I remember him from the days when he ran the Democratic Party and I was in the Charlotte Labor Council.
Tracy McKee (Shepherd)
April 23, 2012
I was so sad to hear about Mr. Harper's passing. I was an employee at Harper Corporation until 1996 and truly felt like part of the family while working there. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family.
Debra Wikström
April 23, 2012
So sorry to hear of Ron's passing. My condolences to the entire Harper family.
With deepest sympathy, Debra Pelletier Wikström
April 23, 2012
Katherine, my sincerest condolescences to you and the family. I have fond memories of you and Ron from my time in Charlotte politics. i am grateful for your joint services to the community and state. Am glad that you retired to my home town of Stanley.
Cam Weaver Cover (Raleigh, NC)
Sonya Long
April 23, 2012
Mrs. Harper and family, I am so very sorry to hear about Mr. Harper. He was a wonderful man and I truly respected him. I am sorry I was unable to attend the service, but wanted you to know that you and your family will continously be in my thoughts and prayers. May God comfort you through this difficult time. Mr. Harper was definitely a blessing to many.
Steve and Linda Cross
April 23, 2012
Dear Mrs. Harper, Jimmy, Chris, Danny, Lynn, Margie, Georgia and Family,
Steve and I are so very sorry to hear of Mr. Harper's passing. It's such a shock to us. Our prayer is that God is holding each of you close to Him during this time and is giving you all peace and comfort. Mr. Harper brought a lot of joy to many people and helped so many more all the years of his life and made a difference to all that he met. He was unforgettable and if you were fortunate enough to meet him once, you never forgot him. I am sure he has so many jewels in his crown that it will take a couple of Angels to help hold it in place and I know he is walking those streets of gold praising the Lord for all He has done for him all his life. Mr. Harper was a great man of faith and because of that faith, he had much success and he didn't mind spreading it. His legacy will follow him many, many years to come. Please know we care.
Bill Kessler
April 22, 2012
Dear Mrs. Harper and the Harper family: As a Gaston County Schools principal, I cannot thank you and Mr. Harper and the Harper family enough. Through your generosity, our students at Robinson Elementary use SMART boards every day now. The teachers took to them so quickly. The students love them. I was so blessed to see you and Mr. Harper last summer at the book signing in Stanley. It was my privilege to spend time with you both. Please accept the condolences of Robinson Elementary. As a fellow Marine, I wish Mr. Harper, "Semper Fi."
Sandra Lowery
April 22, 2012
To the Harper Family:
I was only at Mr. & Mrs. Harpper's home twice. The second time I got the wonderful experience of talking to and being entertained by Mr. Harper for quite a while. Mrs. Harper was out of town. We met his care-givers and the big, beautiful dog. He talked about all sorts of things and was so charming and welcoming. He will be missed by the family so much and I am so sorry for your loss. Sandi Lowery (friend of Lynn's)
Art Ehrenberg
April 22, 2012
Second to my father Ron (Pop) was the most influential man in my life. I lost my dad on January 10th and now Ron. I will miss you greatly. Rest in peace.
Bob Davis
April 21, 2012
Dear Katherine .... I will always remember how you and Ron gave me the opportunity to produce Audio Visual Shows for Harper Corporation in the 1980's. Both of you treated me like a family member and provided insight on the inner workings of the Company and how Ron was able to realize his dream. Before I met Ron, I never heard of an Anilox Roll ! God Bless You and your family for all the things you have given back to Society. Bob Davis, The Davis Group, Charlotte
Linda Criminger
April 21, 2012
Dear family, I was saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. Ron Harper. He was a great man and will be sorely missed by many, many people. I hope in the days to come that you may find comfort and peace.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Petersohn
April 21, 2012
While I never met Mr. Harper personally, I had many opportunities to view the fruits of his hard work and goodwill. It is apparent that Mr. Harper dedicated much of his life to making the world a better place through his philanthropy, his dedication to supporting the printing industry, and many other other endeavors. He will be missed by all those who's lives he touched. Ron's family will be in my prayers this day as they grieve their loss. Godspeed Ron Harper...
Glenda Garrett
April 21, 2012
Ron was such a Wonderful Person, he Loved Kathryn Dearly !!! I Sold them their house in Stanley, he Loved that Little Town !! He was so Proud of it !!! He made sure that I was Invited to the Dedication Event at the School where he Donated the Smart Boards. He was such a Giving Person. We e-mailed little JOKEs to each other All the Time !! The Loving Devotion he had for Kathryn was absolutely Beautiful !!! He will be MISSED by so Many !! You are a Lucky Family to have had Ron in your Lives !!
Tammy Holbrook
April 20, 2012
I LOVED viewing the photo gallery !!! What a wonderful tribute to a wonderful man! If all couples had the love for each other that Ron and Katherine displayed, our world would be a better place.I pray that the examples that he showed for love of our God,wife,family and country serve as the role model for future generations.
Ken Engelhardt
April 20, 2012
While I did not know Mr. Harper personally I had dealings with the company he created and the impact it had on the flexographic printing industry. My deepest condolences go out the entire family for your loss. Grief can be hard and can diminish with the passage of time but Mr. Harper's accomplishments, humanitarianism, legacy and impact on others will persist.
Roger Maxson
April 20, 2012
Katherine and Family,
Ron was a great man & great Marine and he will missed by all!
May God Bless him & you
Ron and Katherine Harper
April 20, 2012
Jim Harper
April 20, 2012
Dad,
I am so thankful God blessed me with the best Father a son could have.I can not thank him or you enough.Indeed,you were an Angel on Earth.I love you more than words can say.God bless and be with you always.
Forever in my heart,
Jim
Tonja McClanahan
April 20, 2012
It is often said that people come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. Mr. Ron Harper came into my life for a reason. He was a compassionate and generous man who loved life to the fullest. He would always compliment me on my smile but in truth it was his smile that was infectious. He was always doing for others and without expecting anything in return other than a mere Thank You. My heart is heavy with grief right now but I know that Mr. Harper is smiling down on all of us and wanting us to go on with his plans.
My thoughts and prayers are with Mrs. Katherine Harper, the entire Harper Family and Stress Free.
There's a miracle of Friendship that dwells within your heart,
And you don't know how it happens or where it gets its start.....
But the happiness it brings you always gives a special lift,
And you realize that Friendship is God's most precious gift.
Author Unknown
April 19, 2012
Dearest family, and dear friends,
Dad has got to be smiling for he has truly orchestrated his last grand finale; and he has taught us well.
We honor him, by honoring his wishes. Doing things the way he would want them done. Most of all taking care of Mom - his Katherine; the way he knew she would want. Care for her, surround her with love, friendship and laughter - hold her hand, just as he did.
We knew Dad would have wanted red roses at his Celebration of Life. This would be the last time for him - that he could give them to his Katherine; he knew how much she loved red roses.
Down to the last detail - we have continued to ask ourselves (or ask Dad) what or how would he do it. Rest assured, we will be asking ourselves this for many days to come.
Dad loved life; he embraced it - and always strived to achieve perfection. He was goal driven; and worked very hard to achieve the results needed. He was always willing to share his guidance and wisdom. He shared himself, unselfishly. He believed in and lived the power of positive thinking.
He was truly a remarkable, kind and gentle man. My hero, my mentor, my sparing buddy, but mostly my Daddy. I miss him deeply, but will cherish the many wonderful memories that he has left me with.
As Dad's business card says, "Work Hard! Give Back! Be Nice!"
He blessed us all. He was blessed by all. God Bless you all.
Lovingly his daughter, Margie
Jim Roane
April 19, 2012
Katherine and Family
May the joys of all the good times embrace you during these difficult days.
Thanks for all the innovative "break throughs" that made the FTA 70's, 80's,and 90's such an exciting and fun industry to be a part of.
I cherish the cooperation and "lets do it right" commitment that was the backbone of our partnership and years of success before my retirement on 12/31/1999. Our world is indeed a better place thanks to the Harper "FOCUS" and both You and Ron continue to be an active influence on my life. Thanks for the memories!!!
Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers, Always.
Sheila Revels
April 19, 2012
Dear Harper family, May the Lord comfort you during this difficult time. I am just one of the many Smart-board recipients and we are so very grateful for all you have done for GCS. Mr. Harper spread so much love and encouragement around and he will be truly missed! Love and prayers, Sheila Revels Pre-K teacher at Robinson Elementary school
Candi Lethcoe
April 19, 2012
Ron Harper has been a part of my life for so many years. We shared office space, he even named my company and freely gave advice and encouragement. I can't imagine life without him. He filled every one he met with inspiration, love and laughter. Ron was my mentor, friend and father. I know he is in a better place, fill with health, love and laughter. Ron often told me “I don't fear death, but there is so much I still need and want to do in this world.� I will miss Ron Harper forever. Candi
Gloria Davis
April 19, 2012
Thank you Lord for the opportunity to meet Mr. Harper. If not for he and his wife, we would not have been able to sit in the skybox at some of the Hornets' games, etc. Their generosity will not be forgotten.
Christine Roberts
April 19, 2012
A friend...A mentor...and our partner.
Our hearts and prayers are with the entire Harper family, as well as the Harper Corporation Team.
With much respect,
Kelly and Christine Roberts
Canflexographics Ltd.
Canada
Nancy Wiggins
April 19, 2012
Katherine & family,
Ron was such a wonderful man. I know that you will miss him terribly. My love to you all.
Sincerely,
Nancy Bowen Wiggins
AVANCO GmbH
April 19, 2012
Dear Kathrine,
Dear Harper Family,
We would like to express our sincere condolences on the recent passing of Mr. Ron Harper. We feel very sorry to hear about your great loss.
We will always remember him as a great person. Men like Ron Harper don't come around very often. His vision, passion and love for his family and the industry was remarkably and even exceptionally.
We had the privilege of knowing Ron Harper and always regarded him as a friend. Our industry has lost one of its best leaders, especially from our point of view according to his achievements for the flexo-industry. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. We happy that we had the chance to meet such a kind, gentle soul.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the entire family at this sad time. We encourage you to draw on your strength and the strength of your family.
Yours in sympathy,
Dr. Ulrich von Hülsen
CedricTappe
Korhan Köse
April 18, 2012
Namast'e
Christopher, Much Love and Light to you and yours at this "Special Time".
Love, Ananda
April 18, 2012
In 2008, the first time we heard Ron and Katherine Harper's names, Stanley Mayor Frank Guida told us that Harpers had recently moved to Stanley and wanted an update on the town. Without Frank asking them, they donated a fourth of our goal for the purchase of a town clock. That turned the corner for the clock corner in Stanley. A five-year hope then became a one-year reality. Others helped with the endeavor and the clock corner is now a bright spot in Stanley. Then we heard about the tremendous Smart Board drive initiated and supported by the Harpers. Next, Frank Guida and Parks Director, Tug Deason, went to the Harper's home to tell them about the dream of many years for a community park in Stanley. The Harpers turned the corner on that dream and made it a reality...Harper Park will be open this year. We have had the pleasure and honor of visiting with the Harpers many times since 2009, and all the admiration, tributes and love for Ron Harper appearing in these entries and elsewhere are so true and so well deserved. The brightest light in Stanley is now a star in heaven, but Ron Harper has left memories that will endure as long as each new day dawns. The town clock, the Smart Boards in all Gaston County classrooms, the Brevard Station Museum improvements being made possible by the Harpers, and especially Harper Park will be just a few of the daily reminders of how much Ron Harper has uplifted our town, our spirits and our hearts. For as much as Ron Harper will be missed, it is much moreso that he will be remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are with Katherine, all the Harper family and Stress-Free Home Care. Levenia and Jim Flanders
Terry Phelan
April 18, 2012
Dear Harper Family,
Please accept our heartfelt condolences for the loss of your beloved, Mr. Ron Harper. . . . .
Terry and Andrew Phelan (Andy's Roll Covers)
Janice and Michael Martin
April 18, 2012
Dear Katherine and the entire Harper Family,
We are deeply sad to hear that Ron passed. We respect him as an employer, client and, most of all, a friend.
He was always a gentleman and the most genuine person that one could ever meet.
Our prayers are with you at this very difficult time.
Rich Wagner
April 18, 2012
Dear Harper Family,
It is hard to believe that only three months ago I had the pleasure of sitting with Ron and Katherine at their kitchen table to talk about flexo education. Ron will be missed as he was such an inspiration to so many people.
The influence of the Harper family has been felt in Minneapolis and many students benefited and continue to benefit from their generosity.
Katherine, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers,
Diane & Chuck Seubert
April 18, 2012
Dear Harper Family: Ron will be missed by us all. He was a wonderful man, father, grandfather and friend. We are so sorry to hear of his passing. Prayers are going out to all of you. God take you in his arms, Ron.
La Joy Farr
April 18, 2012
Dear Harper Family, we send you blessings of the most sacred kind in this time of healing and for giving thanks for God bestowing such an amazing Man as Ron Harper. He and Kathrine raised an amazing family of Love, Light and Honor! God Bless you all from Dragan and La Joy in Southern Cal.
Diana Cope
April 18, 2012
Margie and Hal, Erica, Lydia, and Lee, so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.
Ron and Diana Cope
Cameron Kluttz
April 18, 2012
Dear Aunt Margie, Uncle Hal, Lee, Lydia, & Erica:
I wanted to drop a quick note to tell you how much I am thinking of you and the rest of your family. He was a wonderful man and did so much for everyone around him. Stay strong and remember that he is looking down with a huge smile on his face, seeing how many people are celebrating his wonderful life. I love you all very much & I am praying for you!! Keep working hard for Harper Coorporation!
Cameron Kluttz
Jim Mullins
April 18, 2012
I met Mr. Harper through work,He was a gentleman, and My Boss for over 13 years,I was stunned and saddened to hear of Mr. Harper's passing,I want to send my condolences out to Mrs. Harper and the rest of the family,My prayers and thoughts will be with You .
Jim Mullins
Seth Bailey
April 18, 2012
I am so sorry to hear about Ron's death He was a great man I remember the Sunday that you took me to meet him It was one of the most enjoyable days of my life I learned a lot from him in the short time I was there I think I could have spent the day with him and learn a lot more. The time I spent with Ron was worth about 2 years of school . I am sure Ron will be missed by a lot of people.
Nita Price-Farrar
April 18, 2012
Chris ... I remember your daddy. I remember sitting in that cramped dining room brain storming on clever names for that roller-finish he invented while Danny's wife ironed his military clothes and Jimmy waxed that red Pinto in the front yard. And now ... 40ish years later - look what he did Chris. Who could have scripted a more powerful legacy? His choices are profound with eternal impact. I can only imagine the influences he had on who you've ultimately become - you are a chosen man. I had to read the references to Smart Boards to my husband (a middle school principal) who secretly covets Smart Boards from the newer schools in the district. Oddly enough I just visited ASU (my alma mater) with my oldest child last week. The name "Harper"� is everywhere we go! I deeply feel your grief and pain and loss. Tears flow as I read the words of others about Ron. Take care of your momma - give everyone my love.
"Doc" Morton
April 18, 2012
My deepest condolences to Hal and Margie Kluttz and all of the Harper family. May our Gracious and Loving God comfort you during this difficult time and for years to come.
Sgt. "Doc" Morton-Gastonia Police Department
Glenn & Vickie Kluttz
April 18, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family.
April 18, 2012
Although I never met Mr Harper I did have the privelage of knowing his daughter, Margie, her husband , Hal, and their family. What better legacy can you leave than to know you raised such a wonderful child who treats people with dignity and kindness just as I heard her father did. Family always comes first with them. Mr Harper will be truly missed and my prayers are with his family. Sally Dellinger, Lincolnton,NC
April 18, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Edna and Burt Hilton
BILL BECKER
April 18, 2012
Mrs. Harper, Margie and Hal and all the Harper family: We are sorry for your loss and you are in our daily thoughts and prayers.
Longing For One More Day...
When we lose someone we love it seems that time stands still. What moves through us is a silence - a quiet sadness - a longing for one more day - one more word - one more touch.
We may not understand why our loved one left this earth so soon, or why they left before we were ready to say good-bye, but little by little, we begin to remember not just that they died, but that they lived. We remember that their life gave us memories too beautiful to ever forget.
We will see them again one day, in a heavenly place where there is no parting. A place where there are no good-byes.
God Bless you All--
Bill and Mary Jo Becker
April 18, 2012
My thoughts and prayers to the entire Harper Family. Many memories with all of you. Dorothy Cadieu Gardner
Ken Caputo
April 18, 2012
To the Harper Family,
Lin and I offer our condolences on the passing of a great man. His generosity touched countless people. Katherine and Ron raised a family of caring people. He will be missed.
April 18, 2012
Beloved Harpers,
Know that my love pours out to each and every one of you, embracing you as you celebrate the life of your husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. His work completed, he returns home and leaves a legacy to be remembered in doing and being. It has been my joy to know him and to continue knowing and loving all of you. Peace Be With YOU All. AllLove, IfeTayo TL Bonner-Payne
April 18, 2012
Dear Katherine, Danny and Lynn, Jim and family, Chris and family, Margie and Hal, Georgia and family. Also Dick and Norma, Steve and Linda; Gary and Mona.
It has saddened us immensely the untimely passing of Ron. What a wonderful person he was!. Yes indeed he was one of those rare human beings that have made a difference in this world, Professionally, he was smart and so positive and encouraging and always new how to get the best out of you. If it was in you with his positive feed back and persistence he would always take you to move one step ahead, even if you thought that you did not know how. But his tenacity and positive inspiration and your own efforts would team together to attain the objectives. He was firm but kind and always having faith on the outlook of the people he mentored and worked for his teams.
How many great memories Bill and I have of Ron. What a privilege. Memories that have created a big part of the fabric of our lives . Personally, he was nice, kind, funny, and witty. A great friend. We will never forget the special many times that we shared with Ron and Katherine and with the family. They will live forever in our hearts and minds as some of our special and happiest times. And for this it's difficult to find the right words of light, love and appreciation for the exceptional memories.
Ron was liked by most if not all. He was very engaging, a great roll model and an inspiration as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, brother in law, father in law, son, friend and boss and a very accomplished leader. And for all these qualities and for more he will be missed.
He was very involved in his business with exceptional acumen and also he was a contributor, together with Katherine in charities and industry and community affairs and improvements. Schools, colleges and many others. This is part of the exceptional human being and sensitive person that he was.
He loved his family and adored Katherine with admiration as a devoted wife, best friend, partner in business and soul mate. And this world and all of us that shared with him, have found that this is most definitely a much better place for the mark that he left on it. May the good Lord has received him with open arms in that better world that we still don't know but believe by faith. This was also his belief.
May the reflection of all his great deeds, memories and of a happy life well lived help to alleviate your pain. Please receive our condolences and respect.
Kindest regards,
Bill and Pochy Luman
Hal Kluttz
April 17, 2012
My Father-In-Law, Margie's Daddy, Lee, Lydia, and Erica's Granddaddy, and RJ, Hannah, Braylon, and Olivia's Great-Granddaddy, Ron Harper, passed away to that house not made with hands eternal in the heavens, this past Saturday night at 11:42 pm. I have had the distinct pleasure of knowing Ron for the past 28 years when I ask for and he and Katherine gave me permission to marry thier beautiful daughter Margie. I was this tuff Policeman but I was scared to death that night. And I fondly remember they had fun with me exploiting my fear. Ron was such a wonderful man full of life, never down or depressed, who gave both financially and spiritually to education, the town of Stanley, NC, many other charities, and to his family. He was a powerhouse of energy and enthusium and he will be dearly missed by all who new him ........ To everyone in the Harper family and Harper extended family, this Saturday let us cross the river together and rest under the shade of the trees and reflect back on Ron's life and what he meant to each and everyone one of us ...... I will never forget his positive impact on my life and the admiration and respect I will always carry for him. To all the Harpers ....thanks for allowing me to be a part of your family ..... I love you all!
Angela Ayers Allen
April 17, 2012
Mrs. Harper and family:
My sister, Leigh Ayers, was touched by both of you over the years and you both made a huge difference in her life. Thank you for being wonderful people and a blessing to this earth and thank you for the confidence and friendship you showed her. Mr. Harper was always so kind to her and she admires you both.
My deepest sympathies to you and your family on the passing of a wonderful man.
willem Nikkel
April 17, 2012
We're deeply sorry for your loss.Our thoughts are with all of you.
Ron will truly be remembered by his many friends and admirers,
With our sympathies, Willem & Anneke Nikkel
Jim Brown
April 17, 2012
Ron and Katherine were an insperation to both my wife and I through their love for each other as well as their love for life and education of students. he will be missed but will live on in our memories and life leasons we have learned fom him
Jim and Marilyn Brown
Jill Meadows
April 17, 2012
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Jerry Eubanks
April 17, 2012
Hal and family, I am very sorry for your loss
April 17, 2012
Dear Harper Family,
As a former teacher in Gaston County, I can attest to the fact that Mr. and Mrs. Harper touched very many students and teachers with their generous donations. The Smart Board Initiative in Gaston County Schools opened the imaginations of both students and teachers. One can never measure the impact the Harper's have had on education in Gaston County and the many colleges and universities that were blessed to receive donations. May your hearts and minds be filled with precious memories that will give you strength and comfort in the coming days.
With deepest sympathy,
Diane Carpenter
David Lauderbaugh
April 17, 2012
Ron had no peers! His business ethics,charitable givings,wry sense of humor and above all his friendship will be missed. What a difference he made!
April 17, 2012
Ron had no Peers! His business ethics, charitable givings, wry sense
of humor and above all his friendship will be missed and never forgotten.
What a difference his life made!
Dave Lauderbaugh
Tammy Holbrook
April 17, 2012
Mr. and Mrs. Ron Harper set their "priorities" early in life.That was to work, take care of family and others and to help educate with complete devotion."TRUE AMERICANS!!" in my opinion.To quote a statement that so...ooooo reminds me of the Harpers ........"P.R.I.O.R.I.T.I.E.S.."A hundred years from now it will not matter what my bank account was, The sort of house I lived in, Or the kind of car I drove...BUT the World may be different because I was important in the life of a child." Ron Harper was important in the lives of hunderds of children because of his efforts............what a WONDERFUL Christian witness example he is!!!!
Tom Cassano
April 17, 2012
Mrs. H. and family,
I am deeply saddened by Mr. H.'s passing. He was both a personal and professional mentor to me in my early days in the printing industry. Much of my success I owe to him and the guidance he provided me.
My sincerest condolences to you all during this difficult time.
Cullie Tarleton
April 17, 2012
I was so sorry to learn of ron's passing. I've had the pleasure of knowing both Ron and Katherine for a number of years and considered both dear friends. Their contributions to our community over the years, especially education,should inspire us all to follow their example. Katherine, you and your family are in our prayers. And Ron, I know you've already heard the Master say, "Well done good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of your reward".
Nancy (Ehrenberg) Eaton
April 17, 2012
Dear Georgia and family:
I was sorry to hear about your dad. I don't believe I ever met him, but was aware of his success, both in life and business. May all of your happy memories be with you at this time.
With deepest sympathy,
Dave Horsman
April 17, 2012
You were a special guy with unique talents and you will be missed - condolences to your family of whom who were most passionate about
April 16, 2012
Dearest Katherine and the Harper family (including Candie and Kim), It was such an honor to get to know your father and mother during my time here at Clemson. I spent such wonderful times with them both here on the campus and when they shared their home with us. Ron will certainly be missed as he was one of the most caring people I have ever met. God Bless you all. Kenna Sawdey
gregg kielma
April 16, 2012
Mr. and Mrs Harper thank you for 13 great years with Harper Love and all the great people I worked with over those years. It was a pleasure and honor working for a first class company. God's speed Mr. Harper your legacy will continue to go on .
gregg kielma
Teresa Harbin
April 16, 2012
You will truly be missed. It was an honor to spend time with you, and the time that you spent with my grandchildren. They will be better adults having known you. We love you and know that God had a special place in Heaven for earthly angels like you and Katherine. Working for you both was truly an honor. I pray for your family to find peace and everlasting hope in this time.
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Carothers Funeral Home - Stanley412 South Main Street, Stanley, NC 28164-2015
How to support Ronald's loved ones
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The Five Stages of Grief
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Read moreWays to honor Ronald Harper's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
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