Robert William Harper Sr., age 78, peacefully passed away on November 17, 2023, in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Bob lived a life dedicated to family and service. He had a highly decorated, 30-year military career in the United States Army, where he retired as Command Sergeant Major at Fort Carson. He will be buried with full military honors at Pikes Peak National Cemetery.
As an 18-year member of the Masonic Fraternity, and a Master in two lodges, he was also a 16-year member of the Scottish Rite, serving on the Rite Care committee and as Degree Master. He was an esteemed member of Shriners International, and an 18-year member of the Order of the Eastern Star, where he ultimately served as Worthy Grand Patron.
He is survived by his loving children: Debra Onaindia, Lori Doiel, Ryan Harper, Sharon Harper-Norris; his fiancée of 11-years, Tish Neagles; and her 2 children; 23 cherished grandchildren; and 4 great-grandchildren.
Bob is preceded in death by his spouse of 40 years, Claire Harper; and his son, Robert Harper Jr.
A Memorial Service to honor and celebrate his life will be held on Saturday, December 2, 2023, at the Shrine of Remembrance, “America the Beautiful” Chapel 1730 East Fountain Boulevard, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80910 at 10:00 am. A viewing and visitation will be held the night before on December 1, 2023, from 5:00 – 7:00 pm. Friends are warmly invited to attend, share memories, and offer tributes.
The Harper family expresses profound gratitude for the condolences and support received and would be honored for donations, in lieu of flowers, made to the Scottish Rite.
Steve Young
25 Nov 2023The Buckley SFB military Retiree Activities Office (RAO) would like to offer our sincere condolences and our gratitude for CSM Harper’s 30 years of distinguished service to our country in the Army. If you would like help with any matters related to casualty assistance, Defense Finance & Accounting Service, Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Veterans Affairs (VA), etc. you can contact our office on Buckley SFB at 720-847-6693 or raobuckley@gmail.com. The RAO is staffed by volunteers, all military retirees themselves, and our sole purpose is to provide assistance to any military retirees and surviving spouses/family members with anything related to their military service and/or benefits, in particular during difficult times such as this. We are deeply sorry for your loss.
Steve Young
Lt Col, USAF, Ret
Director, Buckley SFB RAO
Bob and Kay Doiel
26 Nov 2023We are so sorry for your loss. We were just getting to know him and really enjoyed talking with him.
Russell McLaurin
26 Nov 2023Peace to the Harper family!
Cortney
27 Nov 2023I am so sorry for your loss. Over the last 25+ years Bob was such a wonderful presence in my family’s life. I will never forget his kindness.