Nick and I boarded the Greyhound bus with great anticipation that August morning in the summer of 1988. As we scurried on board we looked for two seats together in the back of the bus, where our fishing poles would least inconvenience the other travelers. As we settled into our seats, our excitement was strong enough to overcome the less than pleasant environment of a Louisiana-based bus making roundtrips between Shreveport and New Orleans. The oppressive heat, unidentifiable odors, and general dirtiness were easily overlooked in our joy and thrill of accomplishment. We were on our way to our first real fishing trip, and we had been eagerly looking forward to this moment all summer.
It was two weeks before the start of our sophomore year at Byrd High School, and we were headed to Grand Isle, Louisiana for a three day fishing trip with my cousin Beau. Beau was an avid outdoorsman in his early thirties, and he owned a camp in GI that was our destination. In the spring of that year Beau had invited us down, and after some debate my mother and Nick’s grandmother both acquiesced, given two conditions. Condition 1: we had to find our own way down there. Nick was 15 and had a driver’s license, but no car, and I was still 3 weeks removed from my 15th birthday (and 1 ½ years removed from a car). Thank goodness for the friendly wheels of Greyhound! Condition 2: we had to pay for it ourselves. So we mowed lawns, toiling in the sun all summer long. I can still feel the sweat rolling down my back as I pushed the lawn mower, thinking all the while of the big payoff: Nick and me, on a fishing trip by ourselves. No parents, no responsibilities, no rules -- only fun!
All the hard work was now behind us as the bus started its engine and idled out of the downtown station. We were on our way to big adventure and manhood! But as the bus pulled into a post office in Coushatta an hour and a half later, most of our excitement had been replaced by the realization of what a long bus ride this was going to be. It is impossible to describe how slowly time crawls to a 14 year old boy on a 10 hour bus ride. At the time, Greyhound traveled down Highway 1, and made stops at a gas station, post office or grocery store in every po’ dunk town between Shreveport and New Orleans. Coushatta, Natchitoches, Cheneyville, Marksville, Krotz Springs. It didn’t take many stops before we had established a routine. One of us would dash off the bus, choke down a cigarette, run to the restroom, and then re-board the bus while the other one would watch our gear. We would alternate stops, switching responsibilities. This system got us as far as Baton Rouge. Evidently the management of Greyhound felt that 8 hours was much too fast to make the one-way trip from Shreveport to New Orleans, so they lengthened it by dropping in a two-hour layover in Baton Rouge. Fortunately, my Uncle Guy lived in Baton Rouge and was able to break up the monotony of the trip. Guy picked us up at the station, treated us to a square meal at a nearby Piccadilly, and had us back at the station in time for Nick and me to enjoy a cigarette together.
As we boarded the bus (nonstop between Baton Rouge and New Orleans), we thought that we were home free. Little did we know that more difficulty awaited. The plan was for Beau to pick us up at the New Orleans Airport at 8:00 P.M. We would spend the night at Beau’s house in Bayou Gauche, and leave for GI before daylight the next morning. The bus pulled on to I-10 at 6:45, right on time to make its next stop at New Orleans International at 7:45. At about 8:15, 20 miles from the airport and at a standstill on an interstate posing as a parking lot, I began to really worry. At the very earliest, it would be 9:00 before we could possibly get there. I had my cousin’s home number, but little good that would do. Cell phones and pagers were reserved for doctors and lawyers at that time, so I couldn’t call from the bus anyway.
At 9:10 we pulled into the airport terminal, and I knew that Beau was probably on his way back to Bayou Gauche. As the bus driver eased over to the curb and applied his brakes, a new dilemma arose. The driver flung open the doors and jumped out of the bus, and began chatting to a cabbie standing nearby. Nick leaned over and asked, “Is this the airport stop?” “No, surely he would have said something like he did at all the other stops,” was my logical reply. Sure enough, the driver jumped back on the bus, closed the door, put the bus into gear and headed towards the real airport bus stop. The second airport bus stop never did come.
I distinctly recall the queasy feeling creeping into the pit of my stomach as the bus motored out the gates of the airport. And I recall that queasy feeling spreading throughout my insides as we passed Veterans Boulevard headed towards the downtown bus terminal. By that time, Nick and I both knew that our well-laid plains were quickly deteriorating into disaster. “What should we do?” Nick asked, as if I had some clue. “We have to get back to the airport,” was the only thing I could muster. As the bus slowed to an approaching red light, I grabbed my bag and headed to ask the driver if he could take us back to the airport. His answer was, “No, but you can get off here!” as he flung the bus door open. So I scrambled down the stairs and off the bus with the relief that if nothing else, the bus ride from hell was finally over. When the bus doors closed and the light changed to green, I glanced back as the bus motored down the highway. I will never forget the look on Nick’s face as he peered out the bus window at me. In my haste to get off the bus and back to the airport, I had forgotten Nick. The ever-growing queasiness that had been building for over an hour turned to full blown nausea at that moment.
I crossed the street to a nearby 7-11, and sat on the curb thinking about what I was going to do now. I was 14, alone in New Orleans, and I had just deserted my friend on a Greyhound bus. About the time I resigned to call my dad and ask for help, my spirits rebounded. The streetlights cast the unmistakable silhouette of Nick carrying his bag and our fishing poles. Nick trotted up to me with a big grin on his face and said, “I guess you were in a hurry to get off the bus!” A hardy laugh eased the tension, and hope was rekindled. I quickly dug through my pockets and found Beau’s telephone number. I located a pay phone, placed a collect call to his house, and finally made contact with him. Beau would pick us up at the 7-11 store in about an hour. Our trip was saved from the depths.
To celebrate our survival we decided to wait at a pool hall across the street. The pool hall was a typical seedy New Orleans watering hole, with all the usual lounge décor… a cigarette machine just inside the front door, two ragged pool tables, an old wooden bar, a juke box in the corner pumping out Led Zeppelin, and a bearded, pony-tailed bartender who cast us a sideways look as we strolled into the establishment. In New Orleans, the bar keep had probably seen odder sights, but it is hard to fathom something more unusual than two 14 year old boys with duffel bags and fishing poles. After smoking a cigarette and shooting a game of pool we decided to really stretch the limits of our burgeoning maturity. Nick and I confidently approached the bar and ordered a man’s drink. “Two glasses of scotch on the rocks,” Nick boomed at the bartender. At the time, Nick (who was a good looking guy of Italian descent) may have passed for close to 18 years of age. I, on the other hand, was 5’10 and 115 pounds soaking wet. I looked a lot closer to 12 than I did 18. Evidently, the minimum drinking age at this establishment was based on whether or not you could put money on the bar, and since we both passed this requirement, the bartender poured two drinks of house scotch, and slid them over to us without so much as a word.
Nick and I returned to our table, lit up a cigarette, and quietly sipped our scotch. I am sure we looked quite ridiculous at the time, but it is a moment I will never forget. The fishing trip became an annual pilgrimage for Nick and me, and we had many adventures (and misadventures) along the way, but that first trip will always be special. We had boarded the bus as boys, and 12 hours later sitting in that New Orleans bar, Nick and I were men.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Thursday, April 23, 2009
In Memory.....
April 09, 2009
Nick is my son Blake Harper's uncle. I am absolutely heartbroken. Although we had not seen each other in years, I have always loved Nick and think of him often. I was just talking about him the other night before I found out about this. I was telling someone about a "funny" photo I gave him as a going away gift before his first deployment to Iraq. I just remember how goofy Nick was and how he was always the one who could ease any situation and make everyone laugh. I remember sitting on the back porch with Keith, Nick, and Julie while the kids played and we BBQ'ed. Those were some really fun nights and whenever Nick couldn't make it, we knew it just wasn't going to be the same so we usually just skipped it and waited til the next time he could come. He was just known for being such a sweet, easy-going, funny, good-hearted guy. I will always regret not taking the time to come visit. It's so sad how we take people for granted and assume they will always be here. I am ever so grateful for the sacrifices Nick made for our freedom and for his work in New Orleans. He has many rewards waiting for him in Heaven. Keith, Maddie, Joe, Gloria, Diane, Russ...I will pray for you every single night. I never got a chance to meet Dixie but I am praying for her too. Words cannot express how sorry I am but I assure you, Blake will carry the Harper name with PRIDE for the rest of his life!!
~
Angel Marnett,
Navarre, Florida
_________________
April 04, 2009
My name is Darren Carpenter. I served w/ Nick for several years in the 1083rd. We went hunting and fishing together during that time. I was deeply hurt when I heard the news yesterday and regret not being able to attend the services. Although we have not been in contact for a few years, I will miss him. He was a good friend and soldier. My prayers are with the family, I am sorry for your loss.
~
Darren Carpenter,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 30, 2009
KEITH,GLORIA AND THE REST OF THE FAMILY YOU ARE IN MY PRAYERS. IT HAS BEEN 10 DAYS AND THERES NOT A MINUTE THAT GOES BY THAT I DONT THINK ABOUT MY BROTHER!THAT IS WHAT HE WAS TO ME AND THAT IS WHAT HE WILL ALWAYS BE. HE MADE EVERYONES LIFE A LITTLE SWEETER BY BEING IN IT AND THOUGH MY HEART IS BROKEN I AM SO BLESSED TO HAVE THE MEMORIES THAT I DO.JUST KNOW THAT HE IS WEARING HIS PURPLE AND GOLD T-SHIRT AND HIS SAINTS VISOR RIGHT NOW SITTING AT THE FEET OF OUR LORD PROBABLY MAKING HIM LAUGH AS WE SPEAK!!! IF THERE IS ANYTHING THAT I CAN DO PLEASE DONT HESITATE TO CANTACT ME!!! AND TO NICK, "AT EASE SOLDIER YOUR WORK IS DONE!"
~
SSG SHANNON OLIVER,
BOSSIER CITY, Louisiana
_________________
March 28, 2009
Joe, I think of you everyday and can not begin to understand the pain you must be going through. I hope that you will find comfort in your friends and family. Keep moving forwards and remember the good times always. My thoughts and prayers are never far from you and your family. I love ya'll.
~
Traci Pierce Caldwell,
Stockdale, Texas
_________________
March 27, 2009
Our prayers are with you all. Nick was a really great person we will miss him very much. Rita and Leonard Walkoviak
~
Rita and Leonard Walkoviak,
Bossier City, Louisiana
_________________
March 27, 2009
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
~
Sandy Petty,
Bossier City, Louisiana
_________________
March 25, 2009
I want to say thank you to everyone for leaving such caring messages..They mean alot to the whole family...
thanks again so much
Brittany
~
Brittany Harper,
Princeton, Louisiana
_________________
March 25, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow
SSG(Ret)Mike Permenter
_________________
March 25, 2009
My dear friend Gloria and family; I am so very sorry for your loss. Your son Nick was a very sweet young man. If you need anything let me know.
~
LINDA BEERS,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 25, 2009
this is pvt. clayton just saying you will be dearly missed thanks for all your help in the unit and god bless you
~
katie clayton,
shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 24, 2009
Nick, you were kindhearted, good, so funny, and appreciative of the very good, simple things in life. Friends, family, outdoors. You were like another cool big brother to me, and I always felt safe and protected by you, especially when you watched over us in New Orleans. You made the world a better place. I will miss your sweetness, your quick smile and your kind eyes. You were very much loved.
~
Kathryn Hobgood,
New Orleans, Louisiana
_________________
March 24, 2009
My deepest sympthany goes out to Nick's family they are in my thoughts and prayers. Nick was a great guy in so many ways he will be truly missed. Everytime you looked at him you couldn't do anything but smile and just say "that's Nick"!!! Staff Sgt. Rachel Hall
~
Rachel Hall,
Bossier City, Louisiana
_________________
March 24, 2009
Keith,
I'm so very sorry for your loss. You may not remember me, but you and my brother, Eddy, used to be good friends growing up. I'm truly truly sorry for your loss. Even though it has been years since I've seen y'all, y'all have not been far from my thoughts.
I know that Eddy had reconnected with Nick not too long ago and I had a chance to say hi to him, but I never got the opportunity. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
~
Laura Cramer,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 24, 2009
Keith, I am sincerely sorry to hear about Nick. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Sincerely,
Regina(Foley)Carroll
~
Regina Carroll,
Katy, Texas
_________________
March 24, 2009
LSU, the robot, and the band KISS are the three things that I think of when I remember Nick. He had the best sense of humor! I will miss our days of driving truck together, just being stupid funny! He put a smile on everyone's face! I will cherish all of our memories. You will always have a special place in my heart. I love you friend! SGT
Lynette Terrian
~
Lynette Terrian,
Midland, Michigan
_________________
March 24, 2009
May GOD bless and be with this family now and in times to come. I met Nick about 3 yrs ago, we weren't extremely close but I call him a friend and was proud to say he was a fellow solider. He will be greatly missed.
Spc Tiffany Christaw
~
Tiffany Christaw,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 24, 2009
I've met Nick about 5 years ago...We instanly became friends...My heart is so heavy for is mom, dad,daughter,brothers and sister.
I loved Nick and I will so miss him,His smile and soft kind words I will remember always...He was inspiring,and a upstanding gentleman....Our loss is now God's gain.....Forever in our hearts he will remain....
~
judy stevens,
shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
PAM AND I are very sorry to here about the loss of such a fine young man.Your family will be in our prayers.
~
Philip Holcombe,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
To the Harper Family, you will be forever be in our prayers. Nick always had a way to put a smile on everyone's face. He was a joy to be around. He will truly be missed. Rest in Peace, Nico.....
~
SSG Charlotte Yearby,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
May god bless your family. I will keep them in my prayers because they have lost a very special person. You have fought a good fight and ran a good race. May you rest in peace you maybe gone but never forgotten.
~
SPC Jeremy Draper,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
MY dearest cousin Gloria; it is said that time changes everything, and for the greatest part of my life I thought that was so. We haven't seen each other since we were teens (and lets face it..there have been A LOT OF YEARS BETWEEN THEN AND NOW). But I have come to realize that time may change lots of thing, like our dark hair to white, our dress sizes from petite size 5 to womans size 22!( I'' not telling MY secret!). For me the most life-changing things have been that 1) I have stopped living for my self and have put my miracle children second in line- behing Our Lord only), and 2) to acknowledge that my parents were right after all (darn itt !! ha).
I have no way to imagine what it is like to lose your child and I have absolutely no way to try to empathize your absolute pain. I do, however, KNOW that your son is now in a place were there is only peace and love with OUR Father Almighty and with our clan of family who were so anxious and grateful to greet him with open arms on a day that was always special to the Cappo Clan - March 19. I love you; my heart aches for you; I praise Our Lord Jesus Christ for leading Nick 'Home".
PS: Don't forget the roses!
Russ and Dianne......we all love you so much. You will never know how much it meant to me for you to come visit my mother before we said goodbye to her. THIs IS FAMILY AT IT'S BEST.I love you all Sandra
~
Sandra Ramirez,
St. Amant, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
May God bless this family in this time of sorrow. Nick was a dear friend and fellow soldier. He will be greatly missed.
~
SSG Joshua Cheatwood,
Saline, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
Although I have not seen Nick since high school, I will always remember him and the fun times we had in ROTC and the Scouts.
~
Kevin Eades,
Denton, Texas
_________________
March 23, 2009
My deepest condolences to Nick's family. Nick and I worked together at Lunn, Irion Law Firm many years ago and we used to hang out after work and had many good times. My prayers and thoughts are with his family. I will always remember Nick and his kind-heartedness.
~
Lisa Graham,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
~
Bobby Parks,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
To Nick's family, I cannot express enough how much he meant to me. We'll NEVER be able to replace him. During our training and deployments, now matter how hot or cold it was, no matter how tired and hungry we were, no matter how stretched out and stressed out we were, it was ALWAYS Nick who could lighten our load. With just a smile he could ease so much pain. With just a slight joke he could have us rolling with laughter. With a short movie quote or something he thought up, he could 'take the edge off' of us. He was our 'go to' guy whenever we needed a 'stress break'. Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful man with his fellow Soldiers. He will forever be in our hearts. SSG MGL
~
Michael Levesque,
Bossier City, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
Keith,
I just wanted to say how sorry I am about Nick. You might not remember me, but I was a friend of Robin's and I certainly remember you two. You and your family are in my prayers. Take care,
~
Nyki Lane,
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
Brotherman, you were the best friend I had growing up. I'll always remember the laughs and good times. I know you are at peace now and I pray justice is done.
~
Ryan Boswell,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
It's been an Honor to have known and served with SSG Harper, I Pray that God will welcome him home with open arms. To his Family, stay strong and Prayful and the Lord will see you thru.
~
Spc Jay Brumfield,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
I offer my deepest condolences to Nick's family. Even though I have not seen Nick in over ten years I still often thought of him. This news has been very disturbing for me. I met Nick in 6th grade and went to high school and scouts together. At one time we were almost inseparable. My thoughts go out to those who have survived him. I can't stop thinking about all the good times we had together. I wish I could be in Shreveport to honor his wonderful spirit that I am sure touched so many.
~
Levi Riffel,
Austin, Texas
_________________
March 23, 2009
I give my deepest condolensces to the Harper family in these trying times. May God be with you. \
~
Alvin Bryant,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
You will be missed, and always in my heart!! Royce Seabaugh
~
Royce Seabaugh,
Dallas, Texas
_________________
March 22, 2009
May Nick Harper rest in peace!!
~
Linda Terry,
Bossier City, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
I am proud to have known you and served with you. You made it go alot better when you were around.You will be missed very much my brother.
~
Joey Hooker,
Bossier,City, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
LSU football season just wont be the same without the tigers biggest fan. Cheer for us from the top!
S
~
SSG Michael Larey,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
My sincerest condolences to all family and friends of Nick. He was one of the finest young men I knew. I worked with him at Lunn, Irion Law Firm.
~
Patti Winiarski,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
I am National Guard wife, my husband is in the 1083rd. I am thankful I got to know Nick. Not only was he a brother to the 1083rd, Keith, Wesly, and Brittany, he was to me as well. The military family has a strong bond. There are no words that can heal this hurt but one person can, Jesus. Just remember that. We love you and we are here for you no matter the day or time. Our condolences and sympathy to you. God heal these brokenhearts!
~
genia kennedy,
minden, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
I am proud to have served with you and more importantly to call you a friend. You will be sorely missed.
~
Mark Allen,
Benton, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
Nick rest in peace brother.. You will be missed by many!
~
Stacy Poarch,
Bossier city, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
I am proud to have known you and served with you. You made it go alot better when you were around.You will be missed very much my brother.
~
Joey Hooker,
Bossier,City, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
LSU football season just wont be the same without the tigers biggest fan. Cheer for us from the top!
~
SSG Michael Larey,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
My sincerest condolences to all family and friends of Nick. He was one of the finest young men I knew. I worked with him at Lunn, Irion Law Firm.
~
Patti Winiarski,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
I am National Guard wife, my husband is in the 1083rd. I am thankful I got to know Nick. Not only was he a brother to the 1083rd, Keith, Wesly, and Brittany, he was to me as well. The military family has a strong bond. There are no words that can heal this hurt but one person can, Jesus. Just remember that. We love you and we are here for you no matter the day or time. Our condolences and sympathy to you. God heal these brokenhearts!
~
genia kennedy,
minden, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
I am proud to have served with you and more importantly to call you a friend. You will be sorely missed.
~
Mark Allen,
Benton, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
Nick rest in peace brother.. You will be missed by many!
~
Stacy Poarch,
Bossier city, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
The Final Salute
“Brothers in Arms”, Military men and women down through the centuries, have traditionally exchanged “Hand Salutes” as a sign of recognition and as a way to render courtesy and respect one to another.
This “Hand Salute” is the last that we shall render to Nick Harper our “Brother-in-Arms”. To his family it symbolizes the love and respect that we have for Nick. And to Nick it is rendered as a symbol of honor and gratitude to thank him for the devoted and selfless service he rendered to his country during Operation Iraqi Freedom while serving in the U.S. Army/Louisiana National Guard. Nick, we bid you a sad farewell. You will be dearly missed from among our ranks. Be at Ease. Rest in Peace.
On behalf of the 1,409 members of Lowe-McFarlane Post 14 of the American Legion, I extend our sympathies and our condolences to Nick’s family and loved ones.
Dennis Engdahl, Commander, American Legion Post 14
5315 S. Lakeshore Drive, Shreveport, LA 71109
~
For the Commander, Carroll R. Michaud,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
I am happy to just have had the oppurtunity to get to know Nick. What a wonderful person and he will be sorely missed. My sympathies to his family for their loss.
~
Stephanie Brandt-Chivers,
Dallas, Texas
Nick is my son Blake Harper's uncle. I am absolutely heartbroken. Although we had not seen each other in years, I have always loved Nick and think of him often. I was just talking about him the other night before I found out about this. I was telling someone about a "funny" photo I gave him as a going away gift before his first deployment to Iraq. I just remember how goofy Nick was and how he was always the one who could ease any situation and make everyone laugh. I remember sitting on the back porch with Keith, Nick, and Julie while the kids played and we BBQ'ed. Those were some really fun nights and whenever Nick couldn't make it, we knew it just wasn't going to be the same so we usually just skipped it and waited til the next time he could come. He was just known for being such a sweet, easy-going, funny, good-hearted guy. I will always regret not taking the time to come visit. It's so sad how we take people for granted and assume they will always be here. I am ever so grateful for the sacrifices Nick made for our freedom and for his work in New Orleans. He has many rewards waiting for him in Heaven. Keith, Maddie, Joe, Gloria, Diane, Russ...I will pray for you every single night. I never got a chance to meet Dixie but I am praying for her too. Words cannot express how sorry I am but I assure you, Blake will carry the Harper name with PRIDE for the rest of his life!!
~
Angel Marnett,
Navarre, Florida
_________________
April 04, 2009
My name is Darren Carpenter. I served w/ Nick for several years in the 1083rd. We went hunting and fishing together during that time. I was deeply hurt when I heard the news yesterday and regret not being able to attend the services. Although we have not been in contact for a few years, I will miss him. He was a good friend and soldier. My prayers are with the family, I am sorry for your loss.
~
Darren Carpenter,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 30, 2009
KEITH,GLORIA AND THE REST OF THE FAMILY YOU ARE IN MY PRAYERS. IT HAS BEEN 10 DAYS AND THERES NOT A MINUTE THAT GOES BY THAT I DONT THINK ABOUT MY BROTHER!THAT IS WHAT HE WAS TO ME AND THAT IS WHAT HE WILL ALWAYS BE. HE MADE EVERYONES LIFE A LITTLE SWEETER BY BEING IN IT AND THOUGH MY HEART IS BROKEN I AM SO BLESSED TO HAVE THE MEMORIES THAT I DO.JUST KNOW THAT HE IS WEARING HIS PURPLE AND GOLD T-SHIRT AND HIS SAINTS VISOR RIGHT NOW SITTING AT THE FEET OF OUR LORD PROBABLY MAKING HIM LAUGH AS WE SPEAK!!! IF THERE IS ANYTHING THAT I CAN DO PLEASE DONT HESITATE TO CANTACT ME!!! AND TO NICK, "AT EASE SOLDIER YOUR WORK IS DONE!"
~
SSG SHANNON OLIVER,
BOSSIER CITY, Louisiana
_________________
March 28, 2009
Joe, I think of you everyday and can not begin to understand the pain you must be going through. I hope that you will find comfort in your friends and family. Keep moving forwards and remember the good times always. My thoughts and prayers are never far from you and your family. I love ya'll.
~
Traci Pierce Caldwell,
Stockdale, Texas
_________________
March 27, 2009
Our prayers are with you all. Nick was a really great person we will miss him very much. Rita and Leonard Walkoviak
~
Rita and Leonard Walkoviak,
Bossier City, Louisiana
_________________
March 27, 2009
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
~
Sandy Petty,
Bossier City, Louisiana
_________________
March 25, 2009
I want to say thank you to everyone for leaving such caring messages..They mean alot to the whole family...
thanks again so much
Brittany
~
Brittany Harper,
Princeton, Louisiana
_________________
March 25, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow
SSG(Ret)Mike Permenter
_________________
March 25, 2009
My dear friend Gloria and family; I am so very sorry for your loss. Your son Nick was a very sweet young man. If you need anything let me know.
~
LINDA BEERS,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 25, 2009
this is pvt. clayton just saying you will be dearly missed thanks for all your help in the unit and god bless you
~
katie clayton,
shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 24, 2009
Nick, you were kindhearted, good, so funny, and appreciative of the very good, simple things in life. Friends, family, outdoors. You were like another cool big brother to me, and I always felt safe and protected by you, especially when you watched over us in New Orleans. You made the world a better place. I will miss your sweetness, your quick smile and your kind eyes. You were very much loved.
~
Kathryn Hobgood,
New Orleans, Louisiana
_________________
March 24, 2009
My deepest sympthany goes out to Nick's family they are in my thoughts and prayers. Nick was a great guy in so many ways he will be truly missed. Everytime you looked at him you couldn't do anything but smile and just say "that's Nick"!!! Staff Sgt. Rachel Hall
~
Rachel Hall,
Bossier City, Louisiana
_________________
March 24, 2009
Keith,
I'm so very sorry for your loss. You may not remember me, but you and my brother, Eddy, used to be good friends growing up. I'm truly truly sorry for your loss. Even though it has been years since I've seen y'all, y'all have not been far from my thoughts.
I know that Eddy had reconnected with Nick not too long ago and I had a chance to say hi to him, but I never got the opportunity. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
~
Laura Cramer,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 24, 2009
Keith, I am sincerely sorry to hear about Nick. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Sincerely,
Regina(Foley)Carroll
~
Regina Carroll,
Katy, Texas
_________________
March 24, 2009
LSU, the robot, and the band KISS are the three things that I think of when I remember Nick. He had the best sense of humor! I will miss our days of driving truck together, just being stupid funny! He put a smile on everyone's face! I will cherish all of our memories. You will always have a special place in my heart. I love you friend! SGT
Lynette Terrian
~
Lynette Terrian,
Midland, Michigan
_________________
March 24, 2009
May GOD bless and be with this family now and in times to come. I met Nick about 3 yrs ago, we weren't extremely close but I call him a friend and was proud to say he was a fellow solider. He will be greatly missed.
Spc Tiffany Christaw
~
Tiffany Christaw,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 24, 2009
I've met Nick about 5 years ago...We instanly became friends...My heart is so heavy for is mom, dad,daughter,brothers and sister.
I loved Nick and I will so miss him,His smile and soft kind words I will remember always...He was inspiring,and a upstanding gentleman....Our loss is now God's gain.....Forever in our hearts he will remain....
~
judy stevens,
shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
PAM AND I are very sorry to here about the loss of such a fine young man.Your family will be in our prayers.
~
Philip Holcombe,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
To the Harper Family, you will be forever be in our prayers. Nick always had a way to put a smile on everyone's face. He was a joy to be around. He will truly be missed. Rest in Peace, Nico.....
~
SSG Charlotte Yearby,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
May god bless your family. I will keep them in my prayers because they have lost a very special person. You have fought a good fight and ran a good race. May you rest in peace you maybe gone but never forgotten.
~
SPC Jeremy Draper,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
MY dearest cousin Gloria; it is said that time changes everything, and for the greatest part of my life I thought that was so. We haven't seen each other since we were teens (and lets face it..there have been A LOT OF YEARS BETWEEN THEN AND NOW). But I have come to realize that time may change lots of thing, like our dark hair to white, our dress sizes from petite size 5 to womans size 22!( I'' not telling MY secret!). For me the most life-changing things have been that 1) I have stopped living for my self and have put my miracle children second in line- behing Our Lord only), and 2) to acknowledge that my parents were right after all (darn itt !! ha).
I have no way to imagine what it is like to lose your child and I have absolutely no way to try to empathize your absolute pain. I do, however, KNOW that your son is now in a place were there is only peace and love with OUR Father Almighty and with our clan of family who were so anxious and grateful to greet him with open arms on a day that was always special to the Cappo Clan - March 19. I love you; my heart aches for you; I praise Our Lord Jesus Christ for leading Nick 'Home".
PS: Don't forget the roses!
Russ and Dianne......we all love you so much. You will never know how much it meant to me for you to come visit my mother before we said goodbye to her. THIs IS FAMILY AT IT'S BEST.I love you all Sandra
~
Sandra Ramirez,
St. Amant, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
May God bless this family in this time of sorrow. Nick was a dear friend and fellow soldier. He will be greatly missed.
~
SSG Joshua Cheatwood,
Saline, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
Although I have not seen Nick since high school, I will always remember him and the fun times we had in ROTC and the Scouts.
~
Kevin Eades,
Denton, Texas
_________________
March 23, 2009
My deepest condolences to Nick's family. Nick and I worked together at Lunn, Irion Law Firm many years ago and we used to hang out after work and had many good times. My prayers and thoughts are with his family. I will always remember Nick and his kind-heartedness.
~
Lisa Graham,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
~
Bobby Parks,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
To Nick's family, I cannot express enough how much he meant to me. We'll NEVER be able to replace him. During our training and deployments, now matter how hot or cold it was, no matter how tired and hungry we were, no matter how stretched out and stressed out we were, it was ALWAYS Nick who could lighten our load. With just a smile he could ease so much pain. With just a slight joke he could have us rolling with laughter. With a short movie quote or something he thought up, he could 'take the edge off' of us. He was our 'go to' guy whenever we needed a 'stress break'. Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful man with his fellow Soldiers. He will forever be in our hearts. SSG MGL
~
Michael Levesque,
Bossier City, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
Keith,
I just wanted to say how sorry I am about Nick. You might not remember me, but I was a friend of Robin's and I certainly remember you two. You and your family are in my prayers. Take care,
~
Nyki Lane,
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
Brotherman, you were the best friend I had growing up. I'll always remember the laughs and good times. I know you are at peace now and I pray justice is done.
~
Ryan Boswell,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
It's been an Honor to have known and served with SSG Harper, I Pray that God will welcome him home with open arms. To his Family, stay strong and Prayful and the Lord will see you thru.
~
Spc Jay Brumfield,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
I offer my deepest condolences to Nick's family. Even though I have not seen Nick in over ten years I still often thought of him. This news has been very disturbing for me. I met Nick in 6th grade and went to high school and scouts together. At one time we were almost inseparable. My thoughts go out to those who have survived him. I can't stop thinking about all the good times we had together. I wish I could be in Shreveport to honor his wonderful spirit that I am sure touched so many.
~
Levi Riffel,
Austin, Texas
_________________
March 23, 2009
I give my deepest condolensces to the Harper family in these trying times. May God be with you. \
~
Alvin Bryant,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 23, 2009
You will be missed, and always in my heart!! Royce Seabaugh
~
Royce Seabaugh,
Dallas, Texas
_________________
March 22, 2009
May Nick Harper rest in peace!!
~
Linda Terry,
Bossier City, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
I am proud to have known you and served with you. You made it go alot better when you were around.You will be missed very much my brother.
~
Joey Hooker,
Bossier,City, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
LSU football season just wont be the same without the tigers biggest fan. Cheer for us from the top!
S
~
SSG Michael Larey,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
My sincerest condolences to all family and friends of Nick. He was one of the finest young men I knew. I worked with him at Lunn, Irion Law Firm.
~
Patti Winiarski,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
I am National Guard wife, my husband is in the 1083rd. I am thankful I got to know Nick. Not only was he a brother to the 1083rd, Keith, Wesly, and Brittany, he was to me as well. The military family has a strong bond. There are no words that can heal this hurt but one person can, Jesus. Just remember that. We love you and we are here for you no matter the day or time. Our condolences and sympathy to you. God heal these brokenhearts!
~
genia kennedy,
minden, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
I am proud to have served with you and more importantly to call you a friend. You will be sorely missed.
~
Mark Allen,
Benton, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
Nick rest in peace brother.. You will be missed by many!
~
Stacy Poarch,
Bossier city, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
I am proud to have known you and served with you. You made it go alot better when you were around.You will be missed very much my brother.
~
Joey Hooker,
Bossier,City, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
LSU football season just wont be the same without the tigers biggest fan. Cheer for us from the top!
~
SSG Michael Larey,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
My sincerest condolences to all family and friends of Nick. He was one of the finest young men I knew. I worked with him at Lunn, Irion Law Firm.
~
Patti Winiarski,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
I am National Guard wife, my husband is in the 1083rd. I am thankful I got to know Nick. Not only was he a brother to the 1083rd, Keith, Wesly, and Brittany, he was to me as well. The military family has a strong bond. There are no words that can heal this hurt but one person can, Jesus. Just remember that. We love you and we are here for you no matter the day or time. Our condolences and sympathy to you. God heal these brokenhearts!
~
genia kennedy,
minden, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
I am proud to have served with you and more importantly to call you a friend. You will be sorely missed.
~
Mark Allen,
Benton, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
Nick rest in peace brother.. You will be missed by many!
~
Stacy Poarch,
Bossier city, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
The Final Salute
“Brothers in Arms”, Military men and women down through the centuries, have traditionally exchanged “Hand Salutes” as a sign of recognition and as a way to render courtesy and respect one to another.
This “Hand Salute” is the last that we shall render to Nick Harper our “Brother-in-Arms”. To his family it symbolizes the love and respect that we have for Nick. And to Nick it is rendered as a symbol of honor and gratitude to thank him for the devoted and selfless service he rendered to his country during Operation Iraqi Freedom while serving in the U.S. Army/Louisiana National Guard. Nick, we bid you a sad farewell. You will be dearly missed from among our ranks. Be at Ease. Rest in Peace.
On behalf of the 1,409 members of Lowe-McFarlane Post 14 of the American Legion, I extend our sympathies and our condolences to Nick’s family and loved ones.
Dennis Engdahl, Commander, American Legion Post 14
5315 S. Lakeshore Drive, Shreveport, LA 71109
~
For the Commander, Carroll R. Michaud,
Shreveport, Louisiana
_________________
March 22, 2009
I am happy to just have had the oppurtunity to get to know Nick. What a wonderful person and he will be sorely missed. My sympathies to his family for their loss.
~
Stephanie Brandt-Chivers,
Dallas, Texas
Obituary from the Shreveport Times
SSgt. Nick Harper
SHREVEPORT, LA - Services for SSgt. Nick Harper, 36, will be held Tuesday, March 24, 2009 at 10:00 A.M at Christ The King Catholic Church in Bossier City, LA, with Fr. Charles Glorioso officiating. Interment will follow at Forest Park Cemetery on St. Vincent Ave. in Shreveport, LA, with full military honors. Visitation will be Monday, March 23, 2009 from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M. at Rose-Neath's Bossier Chapel with a vigil at 6:00 P.M.
Nick was a Staff Sergeant with the Louisiana Army National Guard's 1083rd Transportation Co. in Minden, LA. He was a graduate of C.E. Bryd High School where he was an active member of the ROTC.
Sergeant Harper had served a tour in Iraq and was preparing for deployment to his second tour in Iraq. He also served a year a Security Police in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina.
Nick was an avid hunter and fisherman who loved the outdoors. His service in the National Guard was extremely important to him and he will be sorely missed.
His maternal grandmother Vera Cappo who he dearly loved preceded Nick in death.
He is survived by his daughter Madelyn Harper of Panama City, FL, mother, Gloria Adcock of Shreveport, LA, father, Joseph Harper of Bossier City, LA, brothers, Keith Harper of Bossier City, LA, Wesley Harper, sister, Brittany Harper, fiancé, Dixie Lynette Aaron and uncle Russell Cappo and wife Diane of Bossier City, LA.
Honorary pallbearers, Josh Thompson and Mark Hobgood. Rose-Neath Funeral Home
In memory of Nick Harper
This blog was launched in memory of Nican Harper, a wonderful human being and great friend to all who knew him. He will be missed. I hope that all his friends and family will submit comments, photos, video and memories of Nick here.
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