Michael C. Harper was born on December 3, 1958 in Cleveland, Ohio to the late Clarence and Evelyn Harper. He was the fourth of five children. Clarence Harper, Evelyn Harper, and Steven Harper preceded him in death.

Mike attended Cleveland Public Schools and graduated from John Hay High School. At an early age, he accepted Christ, was baptized at Calvary Hill Baptist Church, and later rededicated his life at the Blessed Hope Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Johnny F. Twymon.

For several years, he worked at McDonald’s before becoming employed at the Sheraton Hotel in Independence. He served in several capacities during his tenure and made many lasting friendships. Mike was a chef and loved to cook meals for his family. His favorite dish to prepare was cheesy potatoes, which all the kids enjoyed. He spent his leisure time listening to music and dancing. Mike loved to dress and smell good and he never hesitated to cut a rug. One of his favorite clubs was ‘The Reason Why”on Shaker Square. Those moments brought him so much joy.

Mike was fortunate to have his sister Karen. There was never a time during his illness that she complained, but with a smile & lots & lots of LOVE, she tenderly cared for him. She was his special ‘angel’ on earth!

Mike leaves to cherish his memories his daughter Shonte’ M. Sanders Cleve., Oh; one sister, Karen Blackmon (Cleophus); two brothers, Clarence Harper (Becky) Tucson, AZ and Kenneth Harper, Lancaster, CA., two grandchildren Kai Gay, & Amari Chandler, five nieces Danielle, Alex, Mercedes,Marchelle, Davion one nephew Johnny, two god-sisters Lillie M. Bell and Monique Witcher and a host of relatives and friends.