Terry D. Harper, Ii

Terry Deuel Harper, II, 62, of Mishawaka, passed away Thursday morning, January 26, 2012 in St. Joseph Regional Medical Center.

Terry was born May 13, 1949 in Ottumwa, Iowa, a son of the late Terry D. and VaDonna (Leedom) Harper. He grew up in Cedar Rapids, Iowa where he graduated from Washington High School in 1968. Terry played college football at the University of Iowa earning All-American honors. He graduated in 1974 with a degree in business and served as Vice-President of Lamba Chi Fraternity. In the 1970 Winter Olympics, Terry qualified as an alternate for the USA Speed Skating Team.

On August 28, 1971 in Akron, Ohio, Terry married Judy Widener. The Harper’s moved to Mishawaka in 1982.

Terry was employed 15 years with Uniroyal and later worked for the University of Notre Dame. He attended New Life Church in Osceola. Terry’s memberships included American Legion Post 161 in Mishawaka, Penn High School Wrestling Club, Ducks Unlimited and the Chesapeake Bay Retriever Animal Rescue. He enjoyed hunting fowl. Terry enjoyed working with his hands. He was a great handyman, remodeling homes and building decks. Helping others brought great joy to Terry. His family was the center of his life and he was especially fond of his grandchildren.

Terry’s surviving family includes his wife, Judy; two sons, Terry Chadwick Deuel Harper III, Captain USMC, and his wife Danielle of Albany, GA and Bradley Scott Harper and his wife Christina of Osceola; one brother, Randy Harper of Vermillion, SD; one sister, Penny Parmelee and her husband Robert of Charlevoix, MI; and four grandchildren, Jeffrey, Aubrey, Wesley and Brady Harper.

Terry was preceded in death by an infant son, Jeffrey Nicholas Harper.

Services will be held Monday, January 30, at 7 pm in New Life Church, 11593 McKinley Hwy, Osceola, with Pastor Michael L. Cramer and Pastor David Stauffer officiating. Cremation will follow with burial at a later date in Ottumwa Cemetery, Ottumwa, Iowa.

Friends may spend time with Terry’s family Monday from 4 - 7 pm in New Life Church.

Terry’s family suggests memorial contributions be directed to New Life Church.

Arrangements are in the care of GOETHALS & WELLS Funeral Home, 503 W. 3rd Street, Mishawaka.