Russell Joseph Harper, 94, of Scottsdale, AZ went to heaven on Tuesday, February 16, 2016 at Brookdale of North Glendale, Glendale, AZ. Mr. Harper is survived by his beloved wife, Elia Harper (Crisorio), daughter Penelope (Penny) Campana (Richard), son Ronald Harper (Tina), six grandchildren, ten great grandchildren and brother William Harper (Luann). Preceded in death by parents, Edmond J. Harper and Ella F. Harper (Oesterreich), brothers Raymond, Robert, and sister Loretta Thompson. Mr. Harper was a WWII, US Army Veteran in the Pacific and a 37-year veteran and a Chicago Fire Dept. captain. In his career he distinguished himself for bravery and received the prestigious Chicago Fire Dept. Carter H. Harrison Award for Meritorious Service. Visitation 3 to 5 pm Sunday, February 28, 2016 at Grace Funeral & Cremation Services, 1340 South Alpine Rd., Rockford - at Colonial Village. Celebration of Life Monday, February 29, 2016 at Rockford First in the South Auditorium, 5950 Spring Creek Rd. Rockford, at 10:00 a.m., with visitation at 9 a.m. until the time of service. Rev. Bob Taylor will officiate. Interment in Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association at Alz.org. Share a memory or condolence at www.graceFH.com .