Rick J. Harper

Rick J. Harper, 68, of La Junta, Colorado passed away at his home on October 12, 2023 surrounded by love.

Rick was born March 28, 1955, to William and Zola Harper of Rocky Ford, CO. Rick married Judy of La Junta and joined the Marine Corp in March of 1972.

Rick served in the Marine Corps for four years as a Radio Intelligence Operator rising to the rank of Sergeant in 1974. During his service, he earned the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal 1st and 2nd Award, a Letter of Appreciation and a Rifle Sharpshooter Badge.

In 1976, Rick and Judy returned to La Junta, CO where from 1976-1988 he worked various jobs. In 1988, Rick started with the United States Postal Service until his retirement in June 2015 as a rural route mail carrier.

Rick was a Marine through and through, determined to provide well for his family while also teaching them to be self-sufficient, honorable and hard workers. Rick was also a very good mechanic and worked alongside his brother Steve at R&J Auto in North La Junta. His oldest daughter would joke about being able to call him and say “my car is making a noise that sounds like ….” and he could diagnose it over the phone.

He is survived by his wife, Judy; children, Nikki (Patrick) Shannon and grandchildren Kelsea, Kolby (Erica) and Kinton Shannon and one great-granddaughter Jaycee; Tina Harper and grandson, Cooper; Rick “RJ” Harper and grandchildren, Rachael, Andrew and Alice; brothers, Steve and Greg Walker; sister, Traci Johnson (Sandra) and numerous nieces and nephews.

Rick was preceded in death by his father, William Harper; mother, Zola Walker, stepdad, Everett (Buster) Walker and brother, Monte Harper.

The family requests in lieu of flowers or monetary condolences that a donation be made in memory of Rick Harper to the Kim Area Volunteer Fire Department and Ambulance Service [501(c)3], PO Box 189, Kim, CO 81049. Their ambulance crew provided an invaluable service by expediting Ricks return home where he could receive comfort care from Sangre De Cristo Hospice.

Also, a special thank you to all who called, messaged, stopped by and brought food during his illness; your kindness, love and prayers are much appreciated.

Per Rick’s request, there will be no funeral service.

Peacock-Larsen Funeral Home & Arkansas Valley Crematory is in charge of arrangements.