Janice Harper

Jan L. Harper, 66, of Mansfield, died Wednesday, February 11, 2009 at North Central Ohio Hospice in Ashland. Born February 17, 1942 in Mansfield, she was the daughter of John and Jeanne McHugh Casto. Jan worked as a director of the Mansfield Dental Clinic and had worked for area dentists as a dental assistant. She volunteered at New Hope and enjoyed spending time with children, especially her grandchildren. Jan enjoyed gardening and was awarded best flowers and landscaping in Dublin, Ohio. She had a passion for being with people and made friends wherever she went.

She is survived by five children, Jeff and Barb Harper of Willard, Rick Harper of Canada, Lisa and Dave Harvey of Medina, Steve and Michelle Harper of Erie, Pennsylvania, and Patty Luzader of Hilliard; eleven grandchildren, James and Candice Harper, Brittany Harper, Josh and Jacob Harper, Michael, Jessica, and Eric Harvey, and Erin, Simone, and Audrey Luzader; stepmother, Carolyn Casto of Mansfield; sister, Linda and Robert Garriott of Mansfield; and niece, Lori and Rick Wheeler of Mansfield. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, James L. Harper on June 20, 2008; first husband, Walter L. Wise; sister, Karen Casto; and nephew, Jeff Martin.

Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, February 13, 2009 at the Diamond Street Home of Wappner Funeral Directors. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home conducted by Rev. Les Vnasdale. Burial will follow in Mansfield Memorial Park. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the Hospice of North Central Ohio for the outstanding personal care given to Jan and those close to her. Because they are such a great asset to the community the family would like to request memorial contributions be made to Hospice of North Central Ohio, 1050 Dauch Dr., Ashland, Ohio 44805.