James Michael Harper

James “Jim” Michael Harper, 63, of Wayzata, MN passed away at home on May 2, 2020. Jim was born on March 16, 1957 in Omaha, NE to Ernest and E. Lorraine Harper. 

Jim graduated from Fairmont MN High School in 1975 and University of Minnesota in 1979. Jim had a successful corporate career working for MN Mutual, Federal Reserve Bank, NCR, Datacard, and US Bank. In 2005, he obtained his insurance license and opened his own Allstate agency in Wayzata just miles from home. Jim was a beloved insurance agent until he retired on November 1, 2019. 

Jim was an active member of Woodridge Church and will be remembered for his warm greetings and big smile. In his free time, he enjoyed spending time with “his girls” -- wife of 35 years, Charlene, and daughters, Meredith and Shannon. He loved the outdoors, especially at their lakeside home.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Ernie and Lorraine. He is survived by his wife, Charlene Harper; daughters, Meredith and Shannon Harper; brother, Ted (Debbie) Harper of Delano; sister, Diane (Gary) Branson of Chillan, Chile; and many nieces and nephews.

A small family service will be held in the upcoming week. A larger celebration of life will be scheduled at a date yet to be determined.

Feeling compelled to write about the mission that God has for all of us, Jim authored a book titled “Understand God’s Will.” The free book has been translated into 14 languages, with 10 more in progress, and has been distributed around the world.

Contributions in his memory may be made to www.UnderstandGodsWill.com.

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