Doris Harper

Doris Pauline Harper, 92, of Peru, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, July 5, 2026, surrounded by her family at her home. Doris was born on November 6, 1933, in Macksburg, Iowa, the daughter of Floyd and Pauline (Cochran) Ross.

After a May-to-December romance, Doris married Maynard Leo Harper, Jr., on December 26, 1951. Together they were blessed with five children: Maynard Leo III, Lee, Pat, Mary, and John.

Doris dedicated her career to caring for others, working in nursing and care centers where she served as the head of housekeeping and laundry. She was also a CNA and CMA, retiring in 1995.

A proud member of the Peru community, Doris served as mayor of Peru on two occasions and was a member of the Peru City Council well into her late 80s.

Doris was ornery, fun-loving, and always enjoyed a good time. She loved playing Yahtzee and Bingo, working search-a-word puzzle books, and faithfully watching Wheel of Fortune every evening. More than anything, Doris found her greatest joy in spending time with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all of her beloved fur babies.

She will be deeply missed by all whose lives she touched.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Maynard (Nancy) Harper of Thornton, Colorado, Lee (Michele) Harper, Pat Harper, both of Peru, Mary Belieu of New Virginia, and John Harper of Peru; grandchildren, Misty, Katrina, and Tim Harper, Mandy Harper, Christopher Harper, Carl and Josh Williams, Lonnie, Natalie, and Delaney Harper; 15 great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandsons; and one great-great-granddaughter on the way; her sister, Dorothy Harper; her brother, Dean Ross; and her guardian angel, dear friend, and special caregiver, Tammy Reyna.

Doris was preceded in death by her husband, Maynard Leo Harper, Jr.; her parents, Floyd and Pauline (Cochran) Ross; her brothers, Donald, Clair, and Dave Ross; infant granddaughter, Sara Lee Harper; niece, Sheila Harper; brothers-in-law, Mike and Bill Harper; sisters-in-law, Doris and Cheryl Ross; son-in-law, Mark Belieu; and daughter-in-law, Julia Stuart.

A memorial gathering will be held on Sunday, July 19, 2026, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Peru Community Hall. Guests are encouraged to wear red, as it was Doris's favorite color.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family.