Donald Ellsworth Harpster

Donald Ellsworth Harpster, age 91, passed away Friday, August 10, 2018 in the Wasen Rehabilitation Center. 

Born July 6, 1927 in Ashland, Ohio, he was the son of John Emmett Harpster and Helen Idella (Morr) Harpster.  He was a lifelong resident of Ashland and a graduate of Ashland High School.  He was Navy veteran serving in Guam as a Seabee.  In August of 1948, he married Marilyn Marie Miller.  Through the years, Don was a successful farmer while also using his entrepreneurial skills to operate multiple businesses, including Harpster Stockyards, Inc., and Harpster Packing Co., Inc.  He was never hesitant to lend guidance to his family and others, often helping them find success with new ventures.  Don was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church and was proud to be a 32nd degree Mason and a Shriner. He is survived by his son, Robert J. (Katherine) Harpster, Sr., and daughter Dr. Peggy Harpster (Dr. James) Maul; grandchildren Robert (Dr. Elizabeth) Harpster, Jr., Benjamin (Brein) Harpster, Hannah Harpster (Matthew) Ashbaugh, Courtney Maul, Dr. Alissa Maul (Justin) Gibson, Alexander Maul, and Hillary Maul, as well as 12 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Russell (Janice) Harpster, and his sister, Katherine Jean Endsley. He was preceded in death by his wife Marilyn (Miller) Harpster in 2017 and by his brothers Gerald Harpster, Robert Harpster, and Carlton John Harpster, and sister, Margery Galloway.

A private service will be held for family. The family wishes to express its gratitude to the nursing staff at Wasen Rehabilitation Center for their care and compassion during Don’s final days. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, 508 Center St., Ashland, Ohio 44805 or to Brethren Care Village , 2000 Center St. Ashland, Ohio  44805.

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