Alfred Eugene "A.E." "Gene" Harper passed away on November 6, 2014. Gene came in to this world January 12, 1922. Born to John and Bertha (Branson) Harper of Orleans, Nebraska. He was the fourth child of five in the family. When Gene was 4 years old, the family moved to Springfield, MO. Gene graduated from Central High School in 1940. Gene enlisted in the Army Air Corps and was deployed to Italy, where he served during WW11 and was honorably discharged in 1945. Gene met the love of his life Mary Sue Waddell and they were married in April of 1947. Gene worked for the Railway Mail Service then transferred to the Postal Service, working at the main post office and Glenstone Station in Springfield until his retirement in 1973. Gene and Sue resided in Springfield throughout their marriage and raised two children, Mike and Mark. Gene undertook a second career, as a self - educated Locksmith, he operated A.E. Harper Lock and Key Service until 1977 at which point he sold the successful business. Completely retired, Gene focused his time on helping others. He was a caregiver to many. For family members, friends and neighbors, Gene was always the first to show up at the door of those in need when called. Also lending his expertise and even hands on many building projects with both of his sons. Gene was very skilled and capable at anything he did. In later years he honed his Artistic Talents by learning stained glass art, casting and building large decorative and fully functioning locks from various metals, and even drawing and painting. A copy of one of his last charcoal drawings of Two Mules still hangs in Casper's, depicting a story of a fond memory of his years in Italy during the War. Gene had a thirst for knowledge. He was an avid reader, mostly of history. One of the attributes he will be most remembered for is telling stories. Gene loved to share about his adventures as a soldier, and growing up in Nebraska and Missouri. He knew everything about Springfield. He loved this town, he loved this country. Gene also had a love for animals, most especially his own pets, and the little wild birds and squirrels, which never went a day without food in his backyard. He was preceded in death by his wife Sue Harper, and his son Mark Harper. Gene is survived by Michael Harper and wife Paula of Woodland Park, CO. Grandson Sean Harper, wife Lori and two great granddaughters Peyton and Sydney of Arvada, CO. Grandson Dehn Harper of Denver, CO. Grandson Chad Harper, wife Ashley, great grandson Heath and great granddaughter Hannah Sue of Rogersville. Granddaughter Aubrey Jacobs and husband Dustin of Sparta. A strong Christian, a loving Husband, Father and Grandfather, with a giant heart for everyone he met, Gene will be eternally loved and greatly missed by all. Gene will be laid to rest alongside his beloved wife Sue, who passed before him in 2011. Services will be held Friday November 28, 2014 at 2:00 PM at Gorman-Scharpf on Seminole, Springfield, MO. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mercy Hospital Hospice, 1570 W. Battlefield, Ste 110, Springfield, MO 65807.