Eric Harper

Eric James Harper

Eric James Harper left many loved ones on Tuesday, February 16, 2016, to be with his Heavenly Father after six years of gallantly confronting the challenges of ALS. Born April 3, 1960 and raised in Columbus, he graduated from Westerville North H.S. in 1978 and was the goalie of its first varsity soccer team. Eric graduated from The Ohio State University with a degree in Computer Science and then worked as a computer programmer and systems analyst. He spent most of his career at Motorists Insurance. The family wishes to thank Motorists Insurance, Bishop Watterson H.S., the ALS Association and many others who supported him with their heart-felt concerns and prayers. Eric is preceded in death by father James Harper, father-in-law Juan Jimenez and brother-in-law Juan Jimenez. He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Mirna Harper; sons David, Edward, and Michael; mother Margene Harper and mother-in-law Olga Jimenez; brother Philip Harper; sisters Karen (Jonathan) Wiant and Janis (Gary) Cornelius; sisters-in-law Olga (David) Estis, Maria (Raul) Hernandez and Lily (Ken) Ferguson, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Eric was always a curious engineering tinkerer with an enduring sense of humor and positive attitude who cherished his faith, family and friends and loved helping others less fortunate. He enjoyed planes, rockets, auto mechanics, camping, running and soccer - especially watching his sons' club and school teams. He was an avid fan of the Columbus Crew and The Ohio State University Buckeyes.
Visitation will be Friday, February 26, 2016, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home N.E. Chapel, 3047 E. Dublin-Granville Rd., Columbus. A 10:00 a.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, February 27, 2016, at St. Paul Catholic Church, 313 N. State St., Westerville.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to his wife in Eric's memory for his 3 sons' continuing education.