J. Michael Harper M.D.

Harper, J. Michael, M.D., Age 80, of Kettering, OH passed away at home on Tuesday, July 14, 2015. Mike was born in Atlanta, GA to Sidney G. and May W. Harper on March 10, 1935. He spent his youth in Springfield, OH and was a graduate of Catholic Central High School, the University of Notre Dame, the Ohio State College of Medicine and completed his orthopedic residency at the University of Michigan. He practiced Orthopedic Surgery in Dayton for more than 30 years with the extraordinary exception of 1977 spent on research sabbatical in the UK with his young family.
A renaissance man, who alongside his bride of 50+ years, lovingly raised five kids, spoiled countless grandchildren and shared with them his love of adventure, travel, music, nature, literature and the simple things in life. A doctor by education; a kind and calm healer in all regards. A man whose integrity extended beyond reproach; he was a rare individual who profoundly touched many lives and will be missed by all who crossed his path.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Bill.
Mike is survived by his wife of 53 years, Marian (DeLuca), five children, Margaret (Tim) Dorson-King, Michael (LeeAnn), Andy (Robyn), Marilyn (John) Orr, and Jill (Brian) Collett and a host of grandchildren and a great granddaughter. He is also survived by his sisters Mary Lucille Walker and Guenveur Burnell and brother Edward.
The family will receive friends, Friday, July 17, 2015 9:30 a.m. until time of Mass at 11:00 a.m. at Church of the Holy Angels, Dayton.
In honor of Mike, please plant a garden, hike a mountain, fly a kite, ride a horse, swim in the ocean, or just take a big breath of fresh air. Memorial donations: WDPR, your local NPR station or Hospice of Dayton.