Lee Harper, Jr.

Master Sergeant Lee Harper Jr, 83, died peacefully on Tuesday, Feb. 11 at Columbia Lutheran Home, Seattle, WA.

Lee was born on Sept 12, 1936 to Mattie and Jessie Harper Jr in Mt Pleasant, TX. He had 5 siblings, Robert E. Harper, Patsy M. Jones of Dallas Tx, Walter L Harper, of St Joseph, MO, Charles L Harper of Kansas City, MO who all preceded him in death, Larie Doss of Dallas TX who is left to cherish his memories. He met and married his high school sweetheart Clara M Mc Gill on March 5th 1958. To this union four children were born, Sylvia L Harper, of Spokane, WA, Carla D Harper, of Charlotte,  NC , Lee A Harper, of Seattle, WA, Judy A Harper, who preceded him in death and Lee’s youngest child Camisha L Harper-Henson of Charlotte, NC.  He will be greatly missed by a host of In-laws, Nieces, Nephews, Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren, Cousins, numerous relatives and friends.

Lee enlisted in the Air Force in 1954 and served over 20 years, retiring as a Master Sergeant Nuclear Weapons Superintendent. During his years of service he was awarded numerous commendations including the Air Force commendation Medal with Two Oak Leaf Clusters. After leaving the Air Force Lee continued his education receiving his Bachelors of Art Degree from Eastern Washington State University.

While in school Lee worked as Youth Center Counselor and Director for the Spokane Parks and Recreation Dept at the Eastside Youth Center. In 1975 Lee Joined the Washington State Department of Corrections, Adult Probation & Parole Division working as a Parole Officer in Spokane. In 1984 Lee transferred to the Smith Tower in Seattle, WA. working for the Dept of Corrections as a community corrections officer and serving as chairman of the Affirmative Action Committee. Retiring as a member of the probation and parole board.

Lee was always into Real Estate buying land selling homes for profit, renting Apartments and Homes he had acquired along the way. After retiring he became a real Estate agent, had his own agency for a while, WATEX and Lucas Reality. Lee also spent many years traveling, visiting friends and relatives; he was a staunch supporter of family reunions. He will be dearly missed by all.

To share your condolences and memories of Lee with Family & Friends, please visit his Tribute wall, located above.

-Care & Arrangements Entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home of West Seattle-