Let the family know you care by sharing this tribute.
Kenneth Buxton Harper of Vero Beach, Florida, passed away on January 23, 2023 with serenity and the knowledge that he was greatly loved. He was 82. Ken is survived by his children Dana Harper Turk (Peter), Andrew Harper (Rossana) and Tracey Benton; his grandchildren Alex Harper, Anna Turk, Owen Turk, George Harper, Charlie Harper along with many loving nieces and nephews. His family will eternally smile in his remembrance. He is predeceased by his second wife Virginia Harper and son William Benton Jr., his parents Margaret Little and H. Mitchell Harper, and brothers Mitchell and Charles Harper. He is also survived by his former wife, Gena Grove (Tyler).
Born May 13, 1940 in Evanston, IL, Ken studied mechanical engineering at Duke University, joined the Illinois Air National Guard, and worked at Bache Securities in Chicago. With an innate interest in mechanics, Ken had an idea to improve the sound quality of Lear Jet 8-track stereo players in autos. He was issued several patents including for the invention of the cassette to eight-track player adapter and enhancements to cue and review functions, which he sold to Motorola. In the early 1970s, Ken moved with his young family to Vero Beach where he became partner at brokerage firm Harper Schwerin, which was acquired by Securities Research. With his second wife Virginia, he resided in Winter Park, FL, Manchester, VT, and Mt. Dora, FL, where, later in life, he returned to his true passion of design and mechanics in the aircraft industry.
Ken will be remembered for his gentle heart, inventive mind, the twinkle in his eyes, and a deep connection to life and those with whom he shared it. Beyond his family, friends, and dogs, he loved a good project, embarking on unique adventures, and the gift of an ordinary day.
Services will be determined by the family at a later date.
Donations may be made to Indian River Habitat for Humanity in Kenneth’s memory via www.irchabitat.org/donate.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
© 2024 Lowther Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.
Lisa Sidhu - Friend of Dana Harper Turk
January 27, 2023, 7:18 am
To the Family of Kenneth Harper, it is with great sadness that I write to express my condolences for the passing of Mr. Harper. I remember Mr. Harper being a man of good humor with much energy. He was a family man who was, deservingly so, very proud of his children. I had the good fortune of spending a few days with Dana and Mr. Harper in Vermont and remember feeling welcomed and always having a good laugh. Dana is a dear friend who I have known since her freshman year in college. Dana is a good friend, who like her father, is intelligent, thoughtful, and always able to make others laugh. She has been successful in business and an incredible mother too. Despite her busy life, she was devoted to her father and cared for him deeply in his later years, worrying about his health and well being. I am deeply saddened for her loss and for her brother’s as well.
Leah Schwibner - Family Friend
January 28, 2023, 10:55 pm
Harper Family, We are so sorry for your loss. Sending you our prayers and love. Leah and Jan Schwibner