NICHOLAS “NICK” EUGENE CARPER

Nicholas “Nick” Eugene Carper, 84, of Republic passed away on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024. He was born in Anderson, Ind. on Dec. 3, 1939; the fourth of nine children born to Paul and Naomi (Wainscott) Carper
He graduated from high school in Anderson, Ind. and enlisted in the US Army.
In 1959, while still enlisted in the Army, he married Betty Stewart. Together they raised four children.
At the age of 50, his love of education and compassion for people led him to pursue a degree in nursing. He received his bachelor of science in nursing from Pitt State University. He started as a nurse and went on to manage New Hope Hospice in Joplin. He and his wife were members of Wilson Creek Baptist Church for the past several years.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Betty; children: Kristy Dollens, Sam (Kathy) Carper, Karen (Larry) Doss and Fred (Amanda) Carper; 12 grandchildren; six  great-grandchildren; his brothers, Paul Carper and Tim (Cheryl) Carper; his sister, Susie Patterson; as well as his nieces, nephews and other extended family and countless friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Frank Carper, Gracie Engles, John Carper, Gloria Lemon, and an infant brother, Samuel Joseph Carper.
Services were held on Monday, Nov. 18, at Wilson Creek Baptist Church in Brookline with Pastor Randall Moody officiating. Burial will be at a later date, in Missouri Veterans Cemetery with full military honors.