Elwin Kay Harper

Elwin "Kay" Harper passed away on Dec. 27, 2014 and has left a void in many family and friend's hearts. Kay was born in Malta, Idaho on October 29, 1936 to Rawlins and Thera Harper along with twin brother Delwin "Jay" Harper (Janet) and joined a loving family that included siblings Douglas (Marion) Harper, Fontella (Lavere) Tracy, Beth (Ed) Gagon, and Roberta (Irwin) Christiansen. In Sept., 1955, he married his high school sweetheart Donna Taylor and during their 28 years together they were blessed with six children; Joan (Carl) Erickson, Rick (Debbie) Harper, Ed (Darla) Harper, Sandy (Aaron) Johnson, Penny (Carl) Waidell and Rusty Harper. He later married Vicki, his wife of 31 years, and she brought to the marriage her three children; Erin (Greg) Pierson, Paul (Angie) Chavez and Robert (Dominique) Chavez. They later added James (Vanesa) Art to the family. The combination of these families gave Kay 40 grandchildren (including spouses) and 21 great grandchildren! Kay led a very colorful life and was well known for his love of chocolate and children but he will mostly be remembered as a great friend with a huge heart. A celebration of life will be at 11:00 am, Friday, Jan. 2, 2015 at Melcher Mission Chapel, 6625 E Main St, Mesa AZ, 85205. In Lieu of flowers please make a donation in Kay's name to Sage Hospice, 5111 N. Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale AZ, 85202 as his life was made much easier with their loving care.