Obituary of Donald Lee Harper

Harper, Donald L. “Don” Saginaw, Michigan Our beloved father, grandfather and dear friend passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 20, 2021 at Covenant HealthCare – Cooper. He was 87 years old. Donald Lee Harper was born October 26, 1933 in Saginaw to the late Charles and Blanche (Richmond) Harper. He graduated from Arthur Hill Tech in 1950. Don started working at Saginaw Publishing Company, where he met the love of his life, Joan Frances Shripka. They were married on February 14, 1953 in Zilwaukee, together they celebrated 59 wonderful years together. As his career advanced, he worked and then purchased Saginaw Typesetting in the late 60’s. In 1976 Joan and Don founded and operated, The Print Shop, retiring in 1996. During retirement, Don and Joan loved to travel, attend many local festivals and dine out looking for the best burgers. Spending time with their family brought great joy and happiness. Don is survived by his four children: Kimi Hall, Jody Harper, Geni (Paul) Andrews and Chris Harper; 14 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Lana (Robert) Traub; and many nieces and nephews. Don was preceded in death by his wife, Joan F. Harper; son, Mark Harper; and his brother, Max (Edith) Harper; and brother-in-law, Alan (Margaret) Shripka. FUNERAL: A private funeral service for Don will be held on Friday, April 23, 2021 at the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State). Rev. Fr. Robert Byrne will officiate with burial to follow in Oakwood Cemetery. VISITATION: Family and friends will gather at the funeral home on Friday from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. In keeping with mandated ordinances, face masks, social distancing and limitations on attendance will be required. MEMORIALS: Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to City Rescue Mission or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home or through www.DeislerFuneralHome.com