Capt. Robert M. Harp (US Navy, Retired)

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude, we announce the passing of Captain Robert "Bob" Maurice Harp (US Navy, retired) on October 30, 2024, at the age of 95. Bob lived a remarkable life, full of passion, unwavering dedication, and boundless love for family and friends. A respected officer in the United States Navy, Bob leaves behind a legacy of service, strength, and kindness.

Bob was born on February 20, 1929, in Winchester, Kentucky, to Reverend Harry L. Harp (Church of God) and Henrietta M. (née Hostetler). He was the beloved husband of Ellen M. (née Heath) for 64 wonderful years; cherished father of Todd (Deanna) Harp and Lynn (Mark) Spraetz; loving grandfather to Chelsea, Trevor, and Nick Spraetz; and dear brother to Phil (Twyla) Harp, Dave (Sheila) Harp, Tom (Elfried) Harp, and the late Dick (Clella) Harp and Betty (Jim) York.

As the eldest of six, Bob was a role model and a source of joyful mischief, always encouraging fun and laughter among his siblings. A determined student, he attended the Georgia Institute of Technology College of Engineering, working in a steel mill to fund his education. He was also a proud member of Georgia Tech’s Varsity Men’s Swim Team and Phi Delta Theta fraternity.

Bob’s naval career began in 1952, marking the start of a journey that would take him around the world and up the ranks to Captain. Initially commissioned as an Ensign aboard the USS Mount Olympus, his enthusiasm for aviation soon led him to flight school. After receiving his wings, he joined VS-30 attached to several Essex Class carriers.  In 1958, he joined the Admiral’s staff on the USS Wasp-Hunter Killer Group.  In 1963, he was assigned to VAW-12 and a deployment on the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt (CV-42) and subsequently on the USS Intrepid (CVS-11) in the Atlantic. Selected for a sea command, he was assigned to standup VAW-126 as the 1st XO/2nd CO and deployed with CVW-17 for a second Mediterranean deployment on the USS Forrestal (CV-59). Upon return, he was ordered to NAVAIR in Washington DC to support E-2 Fleet Operations.  Over the years, Bob flew reconnaissance missions from aircraft carriers, and held numerous esteemed positions including serving as an instructor at NAS Pensacola to earning a Master’s degree at the Naval Postgraduate School, and later, attending the Naval War College, Bob's career was a series of achievements and acts of service.  In 1973, Bob received orders to lead the Miami University NROTC Unit in Oxford, Ohio, where he thrived in the collegiate environment, sharing his leadership and values with students. Finally, he returned to NAVAIR in 1976 as the Project Change Manager of all air assets of the Navy/Marine Corp.  After an exceptional 26-year career, Bob retired from the Navy in 1978 at the Washington Navy Yard.

Post-retirement, Bob and his family returned to Oxford, Ohio. He became deeply involved in the Oxford United Methodist Church, where he joined the choir, men’s quartet, and took on a leadership role within the church. He also taught in the Management Department at the Farmer School of Business at Miami University from 1979 to 2005, influencing countless students with his wisdom and experience.

Family meant everything to Bob. Whether he was building a cradle for his first grandchild or working on projects at their beloved home, "Stoney Brook," he approached everything with skill, love, and dedication. His passions for woodworking, photography, model trains, and the simple joys of home life brought joy to his family and friends. His vibrant spirit, enthusiasm, and warm presence will be profoundly missed.

Bob’s life was a testament to love, loyalty, and purpose. His memory will remain a guiding light to all who knew and loved him.

A visitation for Bob will be held on Monday, November 18, 2024, at Paul R. Young Funeral Home from 10 AM until the time of the funeral service at 12 PM. Interment will follow at Oxford Cemetery. Memorial donations in Bob’s honor may be made to Hospice of Cincinnati.

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