Walt Harper, 61, died December 27, 2009 at the Rapid City Regional Hospital.

Walter was born March 4, 1948 in Mitchell, SD to Marion and Leona (Fast) Harper. He graduated from Mitchell High School in 1967. He joined the Navy right away, serving on the USS George K MacKenzie. During this time he met and married Charlene Boxford. To this union two sons were born, Michael James and Jeffrey Allen. The family moved to Hot Springs in 1974 where he has lived since.

Walt has worked as a boiler operator for twenty years at the VA. Walt enjoyed hunting and fishing with his sons and grandsons. Walt and his grandson Riggin enjoyed John Deere tractors, he also enjoyed mules with Rhett, and llamas with Montana. He was exceptionally proud of his grandkid's rodeos and
4-H activities.

Walt is survived by his son, Jeff; daughter-in-law, Jeanie; grandsons, Rhett and Riggin; granddaughter, Montana, Stapleton, NE; cousins, Karen Dixon, Clancy, MT; and Betty Robbe, Butte, MT.

Walt was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Gary; son, Michael and close aunt and uncle, Russ and Vi.

A memorial has been established in Walt's name.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 30, 2009, at McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Hot Springs.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, December 31, 2009 at McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Hot Springs with Dr. J. Edwin Coates officiating.

Interment will take place at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, December 31, 2009 at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis, SD.

Arrangements have been placed in the care of McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Hot Springs. Written condolences can be made at www.mccolleyschapels.com.