Robert "Bob" Harper
April 20, 2026
HARPER, Robert Henry “Bob” – Passed away peacefully on Monday, April 20, 2026, at Palmerston & District Hospital in his 97th year. Dear father of Robert (Deb), Ron (Nancy), Mary Beth Sutton (Glenn), Dorothy Grotenhuis (Wayne Morris) and Jim (Theresa). Survived by his sister Velma Bramhill (Bob Rundle), brothers-in-law Mervin Gillies and Art Dungey, and sister-in-law Betty Gillies. Cherished grandfather of Steven Small (Julie), Rob Harper, Becky Harper (Oliver Delima), Allison Wierenga (Jason), Scott Harper, Brett Harper (Eryn Stewart), Stacey Belmore (Mark), Dale Sutton, Amanda Sutton, Katelyn Arsenault (Cam), Daryl Grotenhuis (Pat), Shawn Grotenhuis (Kelly), Tim Grotenhuis (Jessy), Jacqueline Harper, Diana Harper, Andrew Harper, and Jonathan Harper. Loving great-grandfather of Owen & Christopher Small, Henry, Logan & Nico Wierenga, Seth, Aaron, Jesse & Caleb Grotenhuis, Maddox & Emmett Grotenhuis & William Grotenhuis. He is predeceased by his cherished wife of 65 years Florence, infant son David, daughter Bonnie Small, siblings Ida Patterson & Joan Dungey, sisters-in-law Betty Abercrombie (Edwin), Marlene Harper (Bruce), brothers-in-law Leonard Patterson, Don (Etta) Carmen, Harvey, Jack, Keith, Ken and Gordon Gillies (Mary Lou Burke).
Bob was born and raised in Arthur Township, now Wellington North. He grew up on his family farm and started his own mixed farming business in the 1950’s. He met and married Florence in 1955, together they raised their six children on the family farm on Highway 6. Bob was active in the community including the School Board, 4-H leadership, North Wellington Co-op Director, Mount Forest United Church Elder and part of the executive of the Mount Forest Agricultural Society, including President. Bob was an active curler within the Mount Forest Curling Club for many years and encouraged his children to join him. He was also a member of the Cameron Highlanders and played the bagpipes.
In later years, Bob and Florence enjoyed many trips together. They especially loved attending their grandchildren’s sporting events and activities. Bob and Florence spent many years in Birmingham Lodge and Royal Terrace Retirement Home. Bob will be missed greatly by his family, friends and members of the community.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 23rd from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at the England Funeral Home, 294 Main Street South, Mount Forest. The funeral service will be held on Friday, April 24th at 11:00 a.m., at Mount Forest United Church, 175 Queen Street East, Mount Forest. Immediately following the service, all are invited to the church hall for a reception. If you are unable to attend the service in-person, you are welcome to view a live stream by clicking on the link below. Spring interment will take place on Thursday, May 21st at 11:00 a.m. at the Mount Forest Cemetery. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Bob are asked to consider Mount Forest United Church or the Louise Marshall Hospital Foundation. Online condolences and donations may be made at www.englandfuneralhome.com
Funeral Service for Robert "Bob" Harper
Interment for Robert "Bob" Harper
Condolences
Sending our sincere condolences to all the Harper families in the loss of your Father.
Hugh & Ingrid Hotchkiss
To the whole Harper family;
We were very sorry to hear about your Dad's/Grandpa's passing. Both he and your Mom used to sit in front of us at church and were truly lovely and friendly. We missed seeing them when they were no longer able to attend. We were happily surprised to hear that your Dad was a Cameron Highlander! We hope your happy memories comfort you as you celebrate a life well lived.
Bob and Donna McFarlane
To all the Harper family. We are sorry to hear about Bob. He was such a nice person and it was good to know him . Be glad that you had him for 96 years. Our condolances to all of you, From Bruce and Paula Ghent
— Bruce Ghent, April 25, 2026Our sincere condolences Robert’s family and their families. Cherish the many memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with at this difficult time. Don and Gwen
— Don and Gwen Cormack, April 24, 2026I am very sorry to hear of your Father's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
— Janet Cunningham, April 24, 2026Mary Beth, Glenn and Family.
My most sincere sympathy and condolences are sent you and the entire family.
Heartbreaking to lose a parent but comforting to know others are sharing kind thoughts and words.
Hugs to you,
Lois
Ron and Nancy and the Harper Family - We're so sorry to hear of Bob's passing.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
My condolences to your family.
— Christine McLaughlin, April 23, 2026Dear Harper Family,
Sorry to hear about your Dad’s passing, however, it brought back a memory when we were both at Birmingham Lodge. During an activity at Bingo one afternoon we both won the same game and had to split the winnings. We were richer by 50-75 cents each. We both had a big laugh knowing we would not be getting rich! It reminded me of Bob’s humour and what a quiet and kind man he was. My condolences to all your family.
Beverlee Fettes
My condolence on the passing of your father and grandfather. He was such a nice man and always had a smile.
— Paula Solway, April 22, 2026It was my honour and privilege to know Bob and to journey with Bob and his family through many life transitions. A local treasure has passed on. My thoughts are with his beautiful family in this time.
— Rev. Sheryl Spencer, April 22, 2026My condolences to his family of whom I saw many over my years in practice.
— Dr Hugh Perrin, April 21, 2026Uncle Bob was larger than life to me in many ways...
Not just his massive "paws" as we called his hard working hands,
Not just his big "bear" hugs where you felt his comfort and warmth,
Not just his large smile and joking laughter,
But he was larger than life with All that he shared with others, his homes, land, farms, animals, sports, music knowledge, experiences and wisdom.
With all my heart Uncle Bob thanks for just being a wonderful Uncle. 💙 Love Jackie B
Sorry to hear of the loss of Ron's dad. I am sure he has left you with many memories and words of wisdom.
Janice and David Walsh
We're sorry to hear about Bob's passing.
Our condolences to Bob's family.
Sincerely Jim and Kathy Armstrong
Robert, Ron, Mary Beth, Dorothy, Jim & families sad to hear of your Father's passing.
Always enjoyed seeing/visiting with Uncle Bob.
Cherish the Memories of the many years he was with us.
Love & Hugs to all.💕🤗
Linda & Tom
We are saddened to hear of your loss. Our deepest condolences to you and your family.
Karen & David Carter
Dear Ron and Nancy, Rob and Deb and families
So sorry to hear of Bob's passing. As a long term neighbour I have many fond memories of your Dad. Out in the field on his tractor my dog often followed him. Bob called him " Big Red". Such a lovely and kind man.
Marilyn McGowan