Obituary published on Legacy.com by H.T. May & Sons Funeral Home on Jan. 17, 2026.
Stanley Harper 62 "Stan the Man" was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, Passed away January 16, 2026 at Four Seasons Living Center in
Sedalia, Missouri after a long and courageous journey marked by resilience, perseverance, and love. Following a life-altering accident, he faced years of physical and emotional challenges, yet he continued to fight with strength and determination that defined who he was. His life was not easy, but he met every hardship with courage and heart.
Above all else, he loved his daughter, Vanessa, with his entire being. Their bond was profound and unbreakable. She was his pride, his joy, and his greatest source of strength. Even through pain and struggle, his love for her never wavered-it was constant, unconditional, and deeply felt by all who witnessed it.
He also held a deep and special love for his three grandchildren, Kaylani Rose, Gabriel Andre, and Arianna Kathleen. They brought light into his life and gave him renewed purpose and strength. Their laughter, presence, and love meant more to him than words could express, and he took great pride in being their grandfather even from a distance. Even in his most difficult moments, reminders of them gave him comfort and the will to keep going.
His love extended to his nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart. He also carried great love for his parents. He was a great brother. He cherished his best friend and high school sweetheart , Teri, whose loyalty and friendship meant more to him than words can express.
He was close friends with Rob Lastiri and Mike Wilson since high school, and a few others they hung out with at Inyo court and nile's secret sidewalk growing up in Fremont, California.
Many remember him from his younger years as someone all the girls in high school admired-drawn to his charm, kindness, and easy smile. He was sweet, loving, and genuinely funny, with a sense of humor that could light up a room and bring comfort even during difficult times.
He was known for his perfectly feathered hair, never without his comb tucked into his back pocket. He loved the color red, had a passion for motorcycles, and found peace in fishing and working on cars. These simple joys reflected his spirit and the way he embraced life even after his accident, his flirtiness and playful spirit never changed. He continued to charm everyone around him, often blowing kisses to the nurses and greeting them with that unforgettable smile that touched so many hearts-especially when paired with those beautiful, expressive blue eyes. His warmth, humor, and loving nature remained part of who he was until the very end.
More than anything, he was a man of his word-someone you could always trust. He stood firm in his values, never broke a promise, fiercely protected the ones he loved, and always tried to be better, even when life was hard.
Despite the difficulties he endured, he held onto love, hope, and the moments that truly mattered. His strength was not only in how long he fought, but in how deeply he loved-his family being the center of his world.
Though his passing leaves a deep ache in the hearts of those who loved him and knew him, we find comfort in knowing his suffering has ended and that he is finally at peace. His spirit lives on through the love he gave, especially the love he shared with his daughter and grandchildren. He will forever be remembered for his bravery, and his enduring love.
He will be deeply missed and forever cherished. Stan the Man was truly one of a kind..