John E. Harper's Obituary
John E. Harper aged 64 of Custer passed away quickly and unexpectedly on Wednesday, September 15, 2021 at his home. John was born on June 12, 1957 in Shelby, the son of William and Francis (Fargo) Harper and attended school in Montague and Spring Lake. John served his country by enlisting with the United States Marine Corps following the Vietnam Conflict.
John was one of a kind – unique in his own way. He moved to the Custer area to further enjoy his love of the outdoors, trees, and gardening with his wife Joni and was an employee of Whitehall Industries in Ludington. He was preceded in death by his parents William and Francis.
John will be greatly missed by his wife Joni; his mother-in-law Bonnie Alvord of Muskegon; his stepdaughter Melissa Breen and her children Kieleigh, Kaitlin, and Chase Breen; his stepson Ryan (Judith) Pugh and their children Elizabeth and Nathan; his great-grandson Oliver; his brothers Jerry and Jimmy Harper; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
A gathering of friends and family to celebrate John’s life will take place on Wednesday, September 29th from 1:00 – 5:00 pm at the Eden Township Hall, 3389 East Hawley Road, Custer with military honors at 4:00 pm.
What’s your fondest memory of John?
What’s a lesson you learned from John?
Share a story where John's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with John you’ll never forget.
How did John make you smile?

