ALBUQUERQUE, NM - Perry Robert Harper, Jr. passed away September 4, 2022, in Albuquerque, NM, after a long, courageous battle with Alzheimer's. Perry is survived by his wife of 65 years, Rose, and his daughter Robyn. Rose and Robyn were by his side as Perry passed away. He is preceded in death by his father, Perry Robert Harper, Sr., his mother, Martha Lilly Harper, his brother Thomas Earl Harper and nephew Eric Harper.
Perry was born in Daniels, West Virginia, on April 22, 1934. He graduated. from Shady Springs High School, WV, in 1953. Perry was the first freshman to play on the Varsity football team. He was Senior class President and earned many honors. Perry attended New Mexico Highlands University in Las Vegas, NM, on a football scholarship. He never missed a game in four years, playing offense and defense. Perry was on the Frontier Conference All-Star teams in their Junior and Senior years.
After graduating with a Bachelor's degree from New Mexico Highlands University, Perry then moved to Madera, California, to begin his life in education. In Madera, he started as a P.E. teacher; coached football, wrestling, and track. Perry served as chairman of the Physical Education department, then Dean of Boys, followed by Athletic Director. During his time as Athletic Director, Perry spearheaded the development and building a state-of-the-art wrestling facility on campus. Perry earned a Master's Degree from California State University, Fresno. His last stop was 22 years as Vice-Principal. Perry befriended many families, teachers, students, and employees in all departments. Perry retired in 1993, but not for long!
He soon returned to education at Chowchilla High School in Chowchilla, California. He loved the school and community, and they loved Perry. Chowchilla was so welcoming. In 2004, Perry was honored with the Golden Apple Award. He enjoyed a successful 44-year career in education. At the end of Perry's career in education, he awarded 22 scholarships to students majoring in education.
He was very active and dedicated to causes in the community: Exchange Club, 4-H boosters, FFA boosters, Coyote boosters, Madera District Fair Board, and the Democratic Central Committee. Perry loved deep-sea fishing and fishing in the lakes of California, Mexico, and Canada with his long-time friend Vernon Martinazzi.
Perry leaves many friends, family, and dogs and cats behind. At Perry's request, a private service for family and special friends will be provided. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Animal Humane New Mexico, 615 Virginia Street SE Albuquerque, NM 87108.
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Published by Albuquerque Journal on September 18, 2022
