Lenzy E. Harper, Jr.  "Len"

Len E. Harper, Jr., of Gradyville, passed to eternal peace on July 17, 2020 at the age of 90.

He was born in November of 1929 in Walton, West Virginia. Len graduated from Walton High School, West Virginia University, and was a Korean War Veteran in the U.S. Army. He was preceded in death by his wife Diana in 2015, his parents, Dona and Lenzy E. Harper, Sr., sisters Gladys Odell, Ruth Skaggs, and Pauline Harper, and brother Earl Harper. Len is survived by his daughters Donna Knaak and husband Eric, Cheryl McGuinness and husband Michael, and Lisa Mears and husband Randy. He is also survived by three grandchildren, Derek and Dylan Knaak and Kaitlyn Mears, and many nieces and nephews.

In 1949, at the age of 21, Len enlisted in the U.S. Army and served as First Sergeant in the Korean War in the 23rd Infantry, 2nd Infantry Division, Airborne. He was a proud and decorated soldier who received several medals for his service, including a Silver Star Medal for gallantry in action for courage under fire, a Purple Heart, a Korean Service Medal, a Combat Infantry Badge, and several Bronze Service Stars. After his honorable discharge, he went on to earn his Bachelor of Science degree at West Virginia University. Thereafter, he began employment at Westinghouse Electric Company and obtained his MBA to pursue his executive management career.

In 1958, Len married Diana and moved to Gradyville, where they raised their three daughters.  Len was admired for his willingness to always lend a hand, straight-forwardness, honesty, and all-around handiness. He was an avid reader and a wealth of knowledge on many subjects. He served as an Edgmont Township Supervisor and was a member of the American Legion. After retirement from Westinghouse as the Plant Manager, he continued to work as a Management Consultant for several more years. Upon his final retirement, he enjoyed gardening, cooking, golfing, reading, and playing cards.

Len will be deeply missed and always remembered by his family as a loving father and grandfather.

Len will be laid to rest with his beloved wife Diana in Saint Francis de Sales Cemetery in Aston during a private burial service. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.