Mr. Melvin Gene Harper
February 15, 1948 - April 9, 2020
Melvin “Gene” Harper February 15, 1948 – April 9, 2020 Gene was born in Tifton, Georgia. He was an incredibly knowledgeable man, and was always available to lend a neighbor a helping hand. Gene served in the U.S. Military from 1967-1975, and was deployed in Vietnam. He achieved the rank of Captain by the age of 21, and ended up becoming a purple heart recipient. After Vietnam, Gene attended the University of Tampa and received a bachelor’s degree in science in 1973. He later joined his father and brother in the masonry business. Gene loved working with his hands and was adept at carpentry and building artisan furniture, and did so as a hobby for most of his life. After a long battle with illness, Gene passed on to a better place. He is survived by his wife (Mary), his son (Makager), his daughters (Julie & Stephanie), his sisters (Joann & Brenda), and his grandchildren, nephews, and nieces. Funeral services will be provided by Steverson, Hamlin, and Hilbish of Tavares and will be held at the grave site, outdoors, at Astatula Cemetery on Saturday April 18, 2020 at 12:00 PM.
Melvin “Gene” Harper February 15, 1948 – April 9, 2020 Gene was born in Tifton, Georgia. He was an incredibly knowledgeable man, and was always available to lend a neighbor a helping hand. Gene served in the U.S. Military... View Obituary & Service Information