Ernest H. Raper

Ernest "Ernie" Raper 82, of Kokomo, went to be in God's presence at 2:11 a.m., Friday, April 2, 2010 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Tennessee on July 7, 1927 to the late Hayden and Essie (Dillard) Raper. His marriage to the former Jean Worthy, was on August 3, 1956 in Georgia. He had served in the U.S. Navy during WWII from 1945 to 1946. He then worked at Continental Steel for over 30 years, retiring in 1986. He loved his family, church, and friends, he also enjoyed fishing, gardening, and helping his sons build homes. Survivors include his wife Jean Raper, two sons and their wives; Eddie Raper (Canatha), Brian Raper (Marveda), one grandson Tyler Stephen Raper all of Russiaville; one brother, Ode Raper (Pauline) of Farner, TN; sister-in-law, Marge Raper, Milford, Conn. and a brother-in-law Emmett Payne of Blairsville, GA, along with serveral nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers; Fred Raper of Milford, Conn., Ralph Raper and wife Nancy of Farner, TN, and one sister, Janie R. Payne of Blairsville, GA. Vistation will be from 6-8 p.m., Monday, April 5, at Ellers Mortuary Webster Street Chapel, 3400 S. Webster St. Services will be at 1pm Tuesday, April 6, at the Mortuary. Burial will be in Sunset Memory Gardens. There will be full military rites conducted by the United States Navy and the Kokomo Miliatary Rites team.