William A. “Bill” Harp, 78, of Great Falls passed peacefully, surrounded by his family, into the Lord’s hands on January 1, 2021, after suffering from heart issues for 24 years. His physical heart may have failed, but his “other heart” of love for God, family, community, and friends never stopped. He lived every day to the fullest until he died.
Bill was born September 22, 1942, to Arthur M. and Doris (Wecker) Harp in Long Beach, California. When Bill was five years old, they moved to the family farm at Buford, ND where he grew up. He attended Williston High Schoo. Upon graduation, he moved to Poplar, MT to work and met Tana Sage, whom he married on July 8, 1967. They moved to Great Falls that year. They were blessed with five accomplished and loving children and nine beautiful and perfect grandchildren.
Bill and Tana were married for over 53 years at the time of his passing. His family was his pride and joy, and it was evident to all that they learned the lessons he taught them about God, family, friendship, love, kindness, perseverance, and hard work.
From 1968 until his passing, Bill was active in the business with Harp Financial Group, which lives on through his son. Bill educated himself receiving both his Chartered Life Underwriter and Chartered Financial Consultant designations and was always active in the industry. Bill was also proud to have served in both the Army and Air National Guard.
Active in the swimming community, he continued as the announcer calling meets through last season well after his kids were gone. He served at the Troop and District levels in Boy Scouts, as Scoutmaster where under his leadership 24 young men received their Eagle designation, District Chairman, Silver Beaver, and to the present day on the Eagle Board. He loved to see the accomplishments of young people. United Way, Chamber of Commerce and The Great Falls Baseball Foundation were all blessed to have him as chairman. He was an active member and board member of Rotary.
To read the complete obituary and share condolences, visit the Schnider Funeral Home website.
