Gwendolyn Harper
Alton |
Gwendolyn “Gwen” Harper, 78, passed away at 5:05 pm Monday, November 25, 2013 at St. Clare’s Hospital in Alton.
She was born on February 27, 1935 in Fairbury, IL, the daughter of J. Paul & Florence (Himes) Gardner.
Gwen married Glendell L. Harper on April 29, 1961 in Collinsville and he preceded her in death on March 6, 1996.
She worked for Dr. Chanasue and retired in 2000. She also played the organ at Main Street United Methodist Church for over 30 years and several other local churches for more than 50 years.
She was a member of Main Street United Methodist Church, active in the Handbell Choir & Emmaus Community and was a former member of the Alton Chapter of Sweet Adeline’s. After retiring, she enjoyed traveling, reading & attending her grandchildren’s events. She also had a love for dogs.
She is survived by two daughters and sons-in-law, Bev & J.J. Mueller of Brighton, Pam & Keith Elting of Bryan, OH, one son and daughter-in-law, Scott & Kathy Harper of Godfrey; ten grandchildren, Megan, Ryan, J.P. and Abby Mueller, Ben, Jake, and his fiancée Betsy Wyse, Erin and Sarah Elting, Mark & Laura Cannon, Dana Cannon, and sister, Joan McGuire of Tallahassee, FL.
Visitation will be from 10 am until time of funeral service at 12 pm, Saturday, November 30, 2013 at Main Street United Methodist Church in Alton with Pastors Charles Schwaab and Jame Hahs officiating.
Cremation rites will be accorded.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Main Street United Methodist Church Trust Fund, Ronald McDonald House Charities, or a Charity of One’s Choice.
Elias, Kallal, and Schaaf Funeral Home in Alton is in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home
