Bruce Harper Obituary

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Bruce Leon Harper, loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, who peacefully died in his home on July 4, 2025, at the age of 75. Born on December 31, 1949, in Shreveport, Louisiana, Bruce enriched the lives of all who knew him with his spirit of warmth and kindness.

Bruce was known for his unwavering generosity and genuine desire to help others. Throughout his life, even while suffering from dementia, he embodied the spirit of neighborliness and family, always asking, “What can I do to help?” His home in Monte Vista, Colorado, was a welcoming gathering place filled with laughter, heartfelt stories, and the warmth of shared memories.

Bruce, a devoted husband and father, is survived by his beloved wife, Carol Harper, and his cherished children: Tammy Gallegos and her husband Daniel, Bruce Harper and his wife Candace, and Michael Harper and his wife Heidi. He was an adoring grandfather to Ethan and his wife Briana, Seth, Lauren, Renee, Iris, and William, each of whom brought immense joy to his life. Also surviving Bruce are many nieces and nephews. Of special note, he is survived by his sister-in-law, Margaret Stephens and her husband Terry, his brother-in-law, Ralph Baldrey and Marti Henderson, his brother-in-law Kenneth Baldrey and his wife Kris, his sister-in-law, Alice Kelley and her husband Blaine, all of whom he loved dearly.

Bruce was preceded in death by parents, Bartow "Bud" Harper and Virginia "Jeane" Harper, as well as by his brother Richard and sisters Karen and Jannelle. He was also preceded in death by his father and mother-in-law, Elbert and Mary Alice Baldrey, whom he came to love as parents.

An avid outdoorsman who enjoyed camping, hunting and fishing, Bruce thrived in nature, finding happiness through teaching his children, grandchildren and many others the skills to safely explore the forests of the Eagle and San Luis Valleys of Colorado. His love for storytelling and his ability to draw people in made him a beloved friend and neighbor in his community. Known affectionately as "Pops," (“Papa,” by his grandchildren) he embraced everyone with open arms and a warm hug, becoming a ‘father to the fatherless,’ leaving a lasting impact on all whose lives he touched.

Bruce was an active member of the Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Monte Vista, having previously served in the Edwards and Pueblo areas. His unwavering faith and deep affection for the Word of God were guiding lights in his life, fueling the compassion and love he showed to others. Bruce worked hard to live by Bible principles, among these exemplified is the Christian truth found at Acts 20:35, “. . .There is more happiness in giving than in receiving.”

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Bruce’s life and legacy at The Monte Vista Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witness, 28 Trosper Dr, Monte Vista, CO 81144, at 2:00 p.m., on Saturday July 19, 2025. Following the service, a reception will be held to share stories and memories, embodying the spirit of togetherness that Bruce cherished.

As we honor his memory, we remember a generous person who found joy in giving, a friend who put others before himself, and a loving father who leaves behind a legacy of love. Bruce Leon Harper will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those who knew him.