Jack D. Harper

Jack D. Harper, 66, of West Des Moines, Iowa, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2025, at Every Step Kavanaugh House following a courageous cancer journey.

Born to Robert and Marlene (Bailey) Harper on September 29, 1958, Jack grew up in rural New Hartford, Iowa. After graduating from New Hartford High School in 1977, Jack went on to marry his high school sweetheart, Karolyn Eldridge, on October 12, 1985. Together they built a life full of love, laughter, and cherished memories. They were blessed with the birth of their son, Chad, in 1988, who was the pride and joy of their lives.

Jack devoted his working years to the woodworking industry as a custom craftsman, working the last 22 years at RCS Millwork. His hands brought to life intricate, beautiful pieces, a testament to his dedication, skill and love for his craft. Jack never shied away from hard work, and his positive attitude was a constant source of inspiration for those around him.

Outside of his work, Jack was a man who cherished time spent with family and friends. To those closest to him, he was known for his playful spirit; he had a knack for making fun out of any situation and had a great ability to find joy in the little things. He loved going on vacations and weekend getaways with Karolyn in addition to going on NASCAR trips with Chad. He loved to stay busy with projects, finding purpose in bringing ideas to life with his hands and his hard work. He also loved spending time at the family farm in Iowa Falls.

Jack’s commitment to his family was unwavering. He was not only a devoted partner in life to Karolyn, but also a best friend and wonderful father to Chad. His love for them knew no bounds, and his legacy of kindness, humor and hard work will live on in their hearts forever.

He is survived by his loving wife of almost 40 years, Karolyn; his son, Chad; brother, Mike (Barb) Harper of New Hartford, Iowa; sister, Karen (Jerry) Nielsen of Dike, Iowa; sister- in- law, Kim (David) Grandon of Cedar Falls, Iowa; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Kristi (Harper) Gibbs

Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Sunday, September 21, 2025 at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines, Iowa. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. Monday, September 22nd at Lutheran Church of Hope Chapel, 925 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines, Iowa. The service will be livestreamed click here. Jack will be laid to rest at Fairfield Township Cemetery in New Hartford, Iowa.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family for future designation, and online condolences can be shared at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com

The family would like to express our sincere gratitude to the incredible medical team who supported Jack throughout his journey. Special thanks to Dr. Kittika Poonsombudlert and the team at Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center and the staff at the inpatient stem cell transplant unit at the University of Iowa; Dr. Joshua Lukenbill and the team including Julie, Tara, Tammy and Taylor at Mission Cancer and Blood in Des Moines. We are also thankful to the entire staff at UnityPoint Outpatient Infusion Center for their compassionate care. Their expertise and kindness meant so much to Jack and our family.

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