Roger J. Harper

OTTAWA – Roger J. Harper, 87, of Ottawa, died at 9:15 a.m., Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at The Meadows of Ottawa. He was born December 1, 1938, in Grand Ledge, MI to the late Kenneth and Rayna (Frazer) Harper. On July 23, 1988, he married Paula N. Seitz, who survives in Ottawa.

Other survivors include four children: Charlie Harper, Charlene (Mark) Ellinwood, Cathleen (Robert) Burleson and Jason (May) Harper; a daughter-in-law, Kim Harper; seven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; three siblings: Mike Juliano, Susan Harper and Scott (Carlene) Harper; and two sisters-in-law, Lynne Harper and Sue Juliano.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by a son, Joel Harper; a grandson, Dustin Sams; and two brothers: twin Ralph Harper and Marty Juliano.

Roger retired as a General Studies Director for Northwest State Community College in Archbold and formerly taught in Michigan. He was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and member of the Elk Foundation, Trout Unlimited Organization and Leipsic Hunting and Fishing Club. Roger was an outdoorsman and truly enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Riley Creek United Methodist Church, 7102 County Road M, Ottawa, Ohio 45875, with Pastor Kathy Kaufman officiating. Burial will follow in Harman Cemetery, Gilboa with military rites by the Ottawa American Legion, VFW, AMVETS and DAV. Visitation will be held from 2 to 7 p.m., Friday, November 6, 2026, at HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, 916 East Main St., Ottawa, Ohio 45875, and 10 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2026, prior to the service at the church.

Memorial donations may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Condolences may be expressed at www.loveheitmeyer.com