Don Leon Harper

Don Leon Harper, age 86, a resident of Minong, passed away on March 29, 2020, at his home surrounded by family.

Don was born on December 23, 1933, in Superior, Wisconsin, to his parents Don and Mabel (Johnson) Harper.  Don attended Hayward schools and was married to Mary Ellen (Langdon) Johnson on July 16, 1982, in Minong.   He was an accomplished outboard motor mechanic and worked in many marinas in Florida and Hayward, where he owned Harper’s Marina for many years.  After he sold Harper’s Marina, he worked at Link Recreational and after his retirement, he continued to do repairs in his garage.

Don enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating, and socializing with family, customers, and acquaintances.  He was a Mason, a member of the VFW, and Pocket of Prayer-Minong Men’s Group.  He was a conservative Republican and Trump supporter.  He gave to many charities and was generous with people in need.  He was quick to tell stories of which his grandchildren and great-grandchildren adored.  He was also a valued member of the Wendy’s Coffee Klutch.

Don is survived by his wife Mary Ellen; his sons Wayne (Holly Lunde) of New Richmond, WI, and Cliff (Darla) of Grantsburg, WI; daughters Gretchen Harper (Fernando Espinoza) of Bonita Springs, FL, Marsha (John) Lawson, Roberta (Dan) Lucas, and Connie Rennock, all of Spooner, WI, and Denise (Wayne) Johnson of Springbrook, WI; 16 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, and 6 great-great-grandchildren. 

Don was preceded in death by his parents and one son, Donn Leon Harper; and by the mother of his children, Sandy Thake Danielson.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Stanberry Rail Saloon in Stanberry, on Sunday, July 26, 2020 from Noon to 4:00 PM.  A private graveside service was held at the Greenwood Cemetery in Minong. 

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