Robert Lee Harper

Robert was born in Topeka, Kansas to Henry Melvin and Letha Mae (Ford) Harper.

During Bob’s formative years, Mr. Henry Harper moved the family from Kalamazoo Michigan to Peoria Illinois to become the First Director of George Washington Carver Center. Robert attended Peoria High School. In 1952, Bob enlisted in the United States Navy. After Bob’s stint in the service, He returned back to Peoria where he met and married the love of his life Iris Marie Shaw in 1957. Bob and Iris were married for 68 years when he passed away. Robert was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He retired from Caterpillar Tractor Company in 1990 after a 35 year career. He began his career at Caterpillar as a Millwright and later was promoted to a union foreman. He was a member of St. Ann’s Catholic Church. Robert loved the outdoors. Robert was a very caring person and was a volunteer for over 20 years at St. Mary’s Cathedral Community Outreach program that focused on helping the poor. Bob was a proud member of the American Legion and Peoria Elks Lodge 20.

Robert leaves behind his most precious memories of his wife, Iris and his devoted children, Teresa Harper of Aurora , CO, Christopher (Patricia)Harper of Long Beach, CA, Carol Harper of Peoria, IL, Cecilia Harper of Peoria, IL, Cathleen Harper of Columbia MO and Toni (Michael) Young of Peoria, IL and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by both his parents, Henry Harper and Letha Harper, his brothers Frank Harper, Wayne Harper, William "Billy" Harper, Charles "Chuckie" Harper and his sister Patricia O’Neal.

Robert will truly be missed.

Visitation will be Friday, February 21, 2025 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel. A Funeral Mass will be Saturday, February 22, 2025 at 11 a.m. at St Ann Catholic Church in Peoria. Additional visitation will be Saturday from 10 to 10:45 a.m. at the church prior to the services.

Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery in Peoria with Military Honors.

You may view Bob’s obituary online at www.Daviosn-FultonWoodlandChapel.com