Wayne L. Harper

Wayne L. Harper

of Potterville, PA

Wayne L. Harper, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Potterville, PA, on May 9, 2025, at the age of 72. Born on March 22, 1953, in Endicott, NY. Wayne grew up in South Apalachin where he spent many years, relocating to Potterville, PA in 2011. Wayne was a man who lived a full and vibrant life, marked by dedication to his family, loved ones, his church family, and his commitment to faith.

Wayne graduated from Owego Free Academy in 1972, where he excelled as a star athlete. He enjoyed playing football as a defensive lineman and was known for his strength and determination on the field. Wayne also wrestled, earning respect for his toughness and dedication. Sports were an important part of his life, and he took great pride in being part of the team. He loved to tell stories from his football days, and he shared them with a smile and a laugh right up until the end.

Soon after graduation, he embarked on a career that showcased his diverse skills and tenacity. A true jack of all trades, Wayne worked with his hands as a bricklayer, meat butcher, well digger, and worked in electrical distribution. Wayne and Gail owned and operated the Owego Subway for seven years. His long-standing career in the electrical field included positions at Tioga Electric, Blanding Electric, and he retired from Schaedler Yesco in 2019. Wayne's colleagues knew him as a man who was never afraid to take on a challenge and always willing to lend a helping hand.

Wayne's zest for life was paralleled by his diverse interests. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and was an award winning trapshooter as a result of his exceptional skill and love of the sport. He also found solace and joy when visiting the family cottage in Canada, where they created many cherished memories visiting Long Lake and Ontario. Wayne could be found mowing the lawn on his John Deere, tending to his vegetable garden, or sitting on the porch with Gail. In Wayne’s later years he enjoyed tending to his fifty chickens, selling his eggs, and visiting with his egg customers. Wayne completed all of his favorite hobbies accompanied by his pet cockatiel Pepper who never left his shoulder.

On June 29, 1974, Wayne married the love of his life, Gail (Hunsinger) Harper. From that day forward, they were rarely apart. They truly did everything together—whether it was working around the house, taking road trips, or just running errands, they were a team. Wayne’s love for the open road was best enjoyed with Gail riding right behind him on his Goldwing. Their connection was something special—steady, honest, and full of quiet love. After nearly 50 years side by side, their bond was as strong as ever, a true partnership built on shared laughter, hard work, and always showing up for one another.

Wayne was a proud and devoted father to his son, Tim, and daughter-in-law, Tracia Harper. He loved watching Tim play football and cherished their time spent hunting together. Wayne taught Tim how to shoot, a skill that Tim later sharpened as a marksman in the Marines. Wayne was incredibly proud of Tim’s service and often spoke with pride about the man he had become—loyal, strong, and grounded in the values Wayne had passed on.

Wayne was also a proud and loving father to his daughter, Stacy, and her husband, Tibor Goldea. Both strong-willed and independent, they were cut from the same cloth—stubborn in the best ways, and fiercely loyal to those they loved. Over the years, they overcame challenges together and grew closer through it all. Their relationship wasn’t always easy, but it was real, full of love, growth, and mutual respect.

Wayne took immense pride in his role as “Papa” to his treasured grandchildren: Morgan Harper and Tim Kitchin, Maliah Harper, Aubrey Myers, Paige Harper, Alexis Myers, Timea Goldea, and Tibor Wayne Goldea. He cherished every moment spent with them— being present, making memories, and sharing laughs. His love for them was constant, and he found true joy in watching them grow.

Wayne shared a special bond with his oldest granddaughter, Morgan, who he helped raise and loved as a daughter. He was a steady father figure in her life, offering his guidance, support, and unconditional love. Wayne was incredibly proud of all she accomplished, especially earning her Master’s in Social Work from Kutztown University and becoming a therapist—he often spoke of her with pride and admiration. One of the most meaningful symbols of their connection was the moon. From the time Morgan was a baby, he and Morgan would sit outside and look at the moon together—a quiet ritual that continued throughout their lives, even during his final days.

A man of faith, Wayne was an integral part of his church family at the Community Independent Bible Church. His strong beliefs guided him throughout his life, providing comfort and a source of strength for him and those he loved. Wayne's kind and loving nature was felt by all who knew him, and he was often described as the heart of his extended family, which included many brother and sister in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and their families. Though his parents, Levert and Arlene Harper, and his sister Sharon Harper, preceded him in death, the legacy of love they instilled in Wayne lived on through his actions and the lives he touched.

We will gather for a period of visitation on Friday, May 16th from 11:00 – 1:00 pm at the Community Independent Bible Church, 879 Maple St., Little Meadows, PA 18830 to share memories and celebrate Wayne’s life. A memorial service will follow at 1:00 pm at the church. Memories, condolences, photos and your favorite stories of Wayne may be shared by visiting his guest book at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com Those who wish may kindly consider a memorial contribution to his church the Community Independent Bible Church

P.O. Box 344, Little Meadows, PA 188530 in loving memory of Wayne L. Harper.

Wayne's life was a testament to the power of love, hard work, and faith. His memory will be cherished and kept alive in the hearts of his beloved family and friends. He was a beacon of kindness and generosity, and his departure leaves a void that will be felt by many. Wayne's life was one well-lived, and he will be deeply missed.