George W. Harper

Feb. 8, 1911-June 30, 2005

BENKELMAN -- George W. Harper, 94, died Thursday (June 30, 2005), at Sarah Ann Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman.

He was born Feb. 8, 1911, in Dundy County, on his family's homestead south of Max to Cyrus Henry and Ruth Ann (Stoutsenberger) Harper. He began his education at a country school (District 52) near his home and later attended Benkelman High School where he received his high school diploma.

On Oct. 7, 1934. he married Idabelle Smith. The couple spent all of their married life, except for three years, farming the family's original tree claim and homestead, known as Harper Flats, and other land south of Max. Due to failing health, their later years were spent at the Sarah Ann Hester Home in Benkelman. He embraced the gospel in 1936 and faith in God sustained him throughout life.

He was preceded in death by his parents Cyrus and Ruth Harper; son Lester Harper; daughter, Lenere (Harper) Walker; sisters, Goldie, Daisy, Lula, Fern, and Vernis; and brothers, Louis, Harry, Roy, Ralph, Lee and Glen.

Survivors include wife, Idabelle Harper of Benkelman; sons, George D. Harper and wife, Norma, also of Benkelman, Dennis C. Harper and wife, Verna of Elma, Wash., Leon S. Harper and wife, Diane of Bibbins, Texas; sister, Lola Main of Mitchell; daughter-in-law, Etherl Harper of Oakley, Kan.; son-in-law, Earnest Walker of Wasilla, Alaska; 20 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, 10:30 a.m., at Forch Funeral Chapel in Benkelman with Stanley Morrison and Raymond Reese officiating. Interment will follow services at the Benkelman Cemetery.

Visitation will be Sunday, 1 - 7 p.m. at Forch Funeral Chapel in Benkelman.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be given in his name for later distribution to various community organizations.

Forch Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.