Violet Jean (Annette) Harper

Violet Jean Annette Harper “Ogemakwe” left us to be with her beloved husband, Roger Dale Harper and our Lord in Heaven from Sanford Hospital, Fargo, ND on Monday, May 11, 2020. 

Violet was born on the White Earth Reservation September 9, 1933. She was the first daughter of eight children born to David William (Arthur) Annette and Anna Bates Annette. She grew up in Pine Point in Ponsford and attended grade school there. She then went to high school in Park Rapids, MN. She later became the first Native American to become both a registered nurse and a certified dental assistant at the University of Minnesota.

Violet met and married Roger Harper and together raised 3 children, David William Harper, Joy Anne Annette, and Mary Catherine Harper. Later in life they raised another child, Rachel Lynn Harper.

Violet was a very strong Christian woman who loved the Lord, her family, and her friends. She was a lifelong collector of Native American Art and Regalia which she would take into classrooms to teach children about the life of Anishiinabe and other tribes. Not only did she spend hours in these classrooms, but she also taught her grandsons and Rachel as a homeschool instructor for many years. She was known for her generosity and love, working tirelessly to help others. She was a pillar in her church, skilled in tribal politics, and writer and editor of her own tribal newspaper. She had many hobbies including photography, poetry writing, rummage sailing, and casino hopping.

She is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brothers, John Annette, Franklin Annette; sister, Carol Kramer; and many, many other relatives and friends. Violet has touched so many lives with her generous nature and love.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Roger Harper; parents, David and Anna Annette; brothers, William Annette, Harold Annette, and David Annette Jr.; sister, Emily Annette; granddaughters, Bethany Joy Harper, Jeanenne Violet Harper; and many other relatives.

She will be sadly missed by all who knew her. A memorial service will be held at a later date when it is safe to be together.

Violet’s care has been entrusted to Northern Peace Funeral Home in Walker.  Online condolences can be left for the family at www.northernpeace.com.

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