Stephen W. Harper (Steve) – October 16, 1936 – October 5, 2018
Steve was born in Baker, Oregon and moved with his family to Sausalito, California at a young age. He was the loving husband of 54 years to Elizabeth (Liz) Harper, devoted father to Heidi Harper of Dallas, TX and Tanya and Paul Lewis of San Francisco, CA. Grandfather to Megan and Rachel Lewis. He is also survived by a sister, Joyce Harper, and brother, Mike Harper.
Steve graduated from Oregon State University in 1961 with Bachelor of Science degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Business Administration. He eventually returned to California in 1967 and quickly established himself in the rapid growth of Silicon Valley. Through his work, he was able to join projects that allowed his family to live for short periods in both Zurich, Switzerland, and Johannesburg, South Africa. South Africa, and the African continent, quickly became one of his favorite spots on the planet and the family was able to return in celebration of Steve and Liz’ 50thAnniversary in 2014.
Steve had a great love of the outdoors, especially camping and fishing. He enjoyed hiking, reading, big band music, and silly country songs. He loved traveling, especially to Africa and Alaska, and passed the same wanderlust on to his family. He was the man that could build and fix anything and is remembered for his dry wit, gentle nature, and great care for family and friends.
He led a full life until the last years when his life was forever altered by this wretched disease, Alzheimer’s. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions offered in his memory to the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund.
A mass will be held at 11am on Tuesday, October 16, 2018 at St. John Vianney Catholic Church in Hacienda Heights, CA. A family memorial will be scheduled in Adin, California in 2019.