CLETE HARPER

1940 - 2021

It is with heavy hearts and loving grace that we announce the death of Clete Harper on March 7, 2021. Our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, and more passed peacefully at his home in the love and care of family after a long battle with Heart Failure.

Clete was born in Muskogee, OK and as a baby, was brought by his parents, Vorce and Muriel, who followed previous family members in migrating out of the Dust Bowl to the San Joaquin Valley. After a brief stay at the Weedpatch Labor Camp, Clete’s family eventually settled in Oildale where Clete attended local schools, graduating from North High in 1958. It was during these years that he established many life-long friendships that served as an extended family. Clete graduated from Fresno State and in 1963 began teaching drafting and coaching football at South High School, continuing for the next 17 years. Later, Clete would consider this time to be the most fun and fulfilling of his life.

After leaving teaching, Clete owned and ran a successful general contracting business for many years, never fully quite retiring simply due to always wanting to have a job to attend to. In addition to his love of family and friends, Clete enjoyed spending time at his cabin at June Lake, his fellowship at St. John’s Lutheran Church, entertaining at his home, and cheering on his Giants, 49ers, and Cal Golden Bears (Go Bears!).

Clete’s life touched many and he will be deeply missed by all those fortunate to have known him. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Shirlee Harper, daughter Stephanie Marina (Bill) and grandchildren Alex and Abby Marina, Ryan (Hannah), Nick, Jack, and great-granddaughter Noa Pierce; son David Harper (Dolores) and grandchildren Nate (Hailey) and Maddie Sargent; and sister Jo Stephens (Craig).

Services will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Church (4500 Buena Vista Rd. Bakersfield, CA 93311) on Saturday at 10 AM, April 10th. Reception following on site.