Vernell Hunsaker Harper passed peacefully from this life on October 16, 2018. She was born on March 7, 1929 to Ursel Melvin Hunsaker and Leone Zundel Hunsaker in Plymouth, Utah. She lived her early years with her siblings Ilah, Leota and Carlisle in Honeyville, Utah, a place which remained dear to her heart. She relished the simple joys of life in this small, close-knit community.
Vernell graduated from Box Elder High School and immediately began her career when offered a position as secretary to the Superintendent of Schools in Box Elder County. She married her high school sweetheart, the great love of her life, Robert Wight Harper, on August 14, 1948. They were later sealed in the Logan temple on March 15, 1951. They spent 63 eventful years together and were blessed with four beautiful daughters. Vernell loved her family and remained absolutely dedicated to being part of their lives which blessed the family immeasurably. Their daughters and their husbands were loved alike ‚ there were no "in-laws" in her mind. Their eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren were additional jewels in her crown.
Vernell loved books. She loved to be in a learning environment and sought opportunities to continue to study and learn throughout her life, including a trip with dear friends to attend the University of Cambridge. She loved to travel the world and soaked up the culture, sights and cuisine with enthusiasm. She learned to love time spent in the beauty of the outdoors while walking, hiking, camping, boating and snowshoeing. Countless beautiful memories were made as a family in destinations close to her heart such as Laguna Beach, Lake Powell, Sun Valley, Yellowstone Park and Palm Springs. She cherished time spent with family during the holidays, particularly Christmas and began beloved family traditions which will remain cherished by all.
As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Vernell served in many teaching and leadership callings and all were a joy to her. She served for 6 years as a hostess in the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. A dream come true was the opportunity to serve a mission with her dear husband in the California San Bernardino Mission at Lake Arrowhead. She loved people. She cherished those with whom she served, her dear friends and neighbors and all who touched her life for good. She will be remembered for her love and compassion extended to all. She truly made an indelible mark in the life of each person she touched.
The family would like to express their thanks to the staff at Ridge Cottonwood and Encompass Home Health & Hospice for the tender loving care they rendered our dear mother in her final days.
Vernell was preceded in death by her adoring husband, Robert, daughter, Carol, parents, Ursel and Leone, sister Ilah, and grandson Matthew Kehl. She is survived by daughters Roberta Kehl (Douglas), Char Thompson (Greg) and Kathryn Hueth (Mark), her 7 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, brother Carlisle Hunsaker (Dixie),and sister Leota Boothe.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, October 22, 2018 at 12:00 at Larkin Sunset Lawn, 2350 East 1300 South, Salt Lake City, UT. A visitation will be held from 11:00 to 11:45am prior to the funeral services. In lieu of flowers, if desired, a donation could be made to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Humanitarian Fund. Online condolences may be shared at www.larkincares.com.
