Obituary of John Harper

Johnnie "Pops" Edward Harper was born in Monroe, Michigan on November 21, 1945. He was the son of the late Amil and Laura (Madden) Harper. John attended Jefferson Schools and graduated with the Class of 1964. John married the love of his life, the former, Sally Reaume on May 28, 1988 at Christ Lutheran Church in Monroe. Together the couple would raise five children. John was a man of many talents, and for many years was self-employed. His love for working with his hands often led him to the garage where he fixed or tinkered on just about anything. Although, John was a quiet man, he was a great friend to all in need. He was generous with his time and treasure. John was quite the "handyman" whether he was installing a hot water heater or building a wall, he could do it all. For the past six years he had assisted with maintenance and repairs at the Country Club Apartments. John was well-known for his great sense of humor, and his ability to make others laugh. He cherished time spent with his grandchildren, enjoyed watching wrestling, and had loved animals. Johnnie "John" "Pops" Edward Harper Sr., age 69, of Monroe passed away at 7:45pm on Saturday, March 14, 2015 at Promedica Monroe Regional Hospital. He was surrounded by his loving family. In addition to his parents, John's passing was preceded by two brothers: J.T. Gray and Jimmie Cavins; and a sister: Juanita Goins. To cherish his memory he leaves a beloved wife of twenty-six years: Sally Harper of Monroe; five children: John Jr. Harper of Romulus, Randy (Allie) Harper of East Rockwood, Jeff Owens of Monroe, Dawn (Curt) Croskey of Monroe, and Dodie Owens of Monroe; a sister: Betty Moore of Monroe; twelve grandchildren: Amanda Beck, Whitney Owens, Candace (Cameron) McCoy, Curtis Croskey Jr., Randallee Harper, Kasey Owens, Katlynn Owens, Christopher Owens, McKenzie Harper, Samantha Harper, Brandon Croskey, and Steven Daniels; six great-grandchildren and another great-grandchild on the way. Friends and family may gather from 11:00am until 1:00pm on Wednesday, March 18, 2015 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of His Life will follow at 1:00pm also at Merkle's with Chaplain Larry Lyons of Promedica Monroe Regional Hospital officiating. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the Harper Family. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.