Michael Gordon Harper, age 73, of Mission Hills, KS passed away on September 22, 2014. He was born on November 28, 1940 in Haven, Kansas to Evelyn and Orville Harper. He attended Washburn University for two years where he pledged Phi Delta Theta fraternity which proved a love and continuing focus throughout his life. He finished his education at the University of Southern California. Professionally, he worked for 18 years as U.S. Senator Nancy Kassebaum's State Director. He followed this as Advisor to Ambassador Howard Baker of Tokyo, Japan. He will be remembered for many things including his sense of humor, tearing up at the mere mention of Kate Smith's rendition of God Bless America, long walks twirling a chain and documenting, via video, nearly every aspect of his children's lives. He is survived by his wife Stephanie, sons Todd (wife Laura, grandsons Noah and Adam), Chris, and Doug and daughter Angela and mother Evelyn. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to K.C. Phi Delta Theta Education Fund (to be mailed to the funeral home) or The Children's Place: 2 East 59th Street, Kansas City, Mo 64113. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, October 11, 2014, 5-7pm, at Mission Hills Country Club.