Ashley Harper Wallace Jr. "Harper" passed away in his sleep September 12, 2014 while being attended by his daughter and granddaughter.
Harper was born May 5, 1918 to Ashley Harper Wallace and Claribel Louise Woods Wallace in Salt Lake City, Utah. Harper grew up in the Avenues in Salt Lake City and lived in the Avenues most of his life.
Harper followed the example of his father serving an LDS mission to New Zealand, serving under Matthew Cowley as the mission secretary his entire mission. He loved New Zealand, especially the Maori people, who had a special affinity for Harper. He had a wonderful singing voice and once sang "Now is the Hour" in English and Maori to the entire nation on the national radio station 1ZB. Harper served in many positions in his church including many years in the bishopric. He also loved singing in the choir.
Harper married Ellen Lorraine Wales on June 20, 1941 in the Salt Lake Temple. They had seven children and fifteen grandchildren. They were wonderful parents and grandparents and enjoyed a marriage of 62 years.
Harper was a marvelous athlete and enjoyed swimming, football and basketball. He lettered in football and basketball at East High School. He was a great fan of the University of Utah and held season tickets to both football and basketball for many years. Some of the best times his sons remember are attending games with their father. He also played recreational softball for many years with his former missionary companions.
As a member of the "Greatest Generation" he served in the Pacific Theatre during World War II in the United States Navy.
Harper was a successful business man. As one of the founders of Beehive Tours and Travel he enjoyed escorting many people to see the sights of the world. He and Ellen were able to travel extensively to many parts of the world.
He is survived by all of his children: Ashley H. Wallace Jr., Sue Ellen Wallace (Peter), Robert B. Wallace, Richard D. Wallace (Daryl), Barbara Ann Baird (Charles), William W. Wallace (Jennifer) and Michael W. Wallace, 15 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. The family wants to thank all who helped care for dad in his later years, particular thanks goes to Heta and Sela.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 20 at the Larkin Mortuary 260 E. South Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah. Friends may call at the Larkin Mortuary from 10:00 to 11:45 AM and the service will be held at noon. Interment will be at the Salt Lake City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations to the LDS Church Humanitarian Fund will be greatly appreciated.
