John G. Harper Sr.

John G. Harper Sr., 85, of Rockford passed away Thursday, July 7, 2011 at Riverbluff Nursing Home.nbsp; Born April 2, 1926 in Racine, WI; the son of the late John and Lila (Lorenz) Harper.nbsp; John was a proud veteran of the United States Navy.nbsp; He worked at Chrysler for many years before retiring in 1991.nbsp; John loved life; he enjoyed traveling and doing activities outdoors.nbsp; He was especially proud of his children and grandchildren.nbsp; They will dearly miss him.nbsp; Everyone that knew John would say he was quite the character, he could make anyone he met laugh.nbsp; Survivors include his children: John Harper Jr., Brenda Payne and Jason Harper, eight grandchildren, three great grandchildren and one brother, Richard Hout-Cooper.nbsp; Special thanks to Riverbluff nursing home especially Kim and Lori and VNA Hospice for the care they have given John.nbsp; Per Johns wishes he will be cremated.nbsp; Memorial Services will be 2:00 pm Friday, July 15, 2011 at Fitzgerald Funeral Home- Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, IL 61108.nbsp; Share online tributes at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.