Theodore C. Harper

"Oh, I Have Slipped the Surly Bonds of Earth"

Theodore "Ted" Clayton Harper, age 98, of Upper Arlington, gently left this world on February 15, 2026, at Danbury of Columbus. Born March 30, 1927, in Marion, Ohio, Ted was the beloved son of Orva C. and Minnie (Moon) Harper. Ted married Doris J. Heiser in (1946) and Mary L Bailey in (1964) both of whom made great contributions to his life and dreams.

A proud graduate of Marion Harding High School, Class of 1945, Ted built a life defined by curiosity, service, and an enduring love of flight. His professional journey included work as a machinist and draftsman at Fairfield Engineering, followed by a remarkable career in aviation. He served as an aviation instructor with Cobby Aviation, became ESSCO/KIPCO. Ted also shared his knowledge and passion as an instructor at The Ohio State University College of Engineering, where he earned the respect and gratitude of doctoral students whose lives he helped shape.

Aviation was not simply an interest for Ted-it was a lifelong calling that spanned more than eighty years. He was a founding member of the Experimental Aircraft Association and remained actively involved with the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. His life of service also extended to the Masonic Lodge and Grace Brethren Church, communities where his integrity, wisdom, and steady presence were deeply valued.

Ted proudly served his country in the United States Navy during World War II and was the last surviving member of the USS Hoggatt Bay (CVE-75), a distinction he carried with quiet humility and honor.

Ted will be lovingly remembered by his children: Tom (Peg), Terri (Terry) Cox, Ken (Julie), and Lee (Susan); his siblings Ron (Linda), Ray (Sandy), and Marilyn Burnside; brother-in-law Lester Tomlin, sister-in-law, Lynn Harper; eleven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. His legacy lives on through the many generations who knew his guidance, encouragement, and love.

In addition to his parents and wife Mary, Ted was preceded in death by his first wife, Doris J. Heiser; siblings Myrtle Jane Hathaway, James Harper, Jack Harper, and Nancy Tomlin; his son Duane Ellis Harper; and an infant daughter.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Ted's brother Ray and sister-in-law Sandy for their unwavering support, care, and kindness.

A graveside memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 26, 2026, at Trenton Cemetery in Sunbury.

Arrangements are entrusted to Snyder Funeral Homes, DeVore Chapel.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.