Obituaries

Harper Polly Allison, age 6, of Dafter, Michigan, died on Friday, March 13, 2026, at home with her loving family by her side. She was born on August 5, 2019, in Marquette, Michigan, to Tom and Ashley (Salm) Allison.

Harper was born at 26 weeks and spent her early days in the NICU at UP Health System – Marquette and the NICU at Helen Devos Children’s Hospital – Grand Rapids. She was welcomed home with so much love by her big sister, Kate. More recently, Harper proudly took on the role of big sister herself when her baby brother, Luke, joined the family.

Harper loved the outdoors, going for walks, sled rides, riding in the side-by-side with her dad, boating, and spending time at the beach.

To know Harper was to know love with no limits. Unconditional, deep, true love. Harper only knew love. Harper’s smile and joyful spirit lit up every room she entered and every person she shared it with. Harper left an impact on people near and far. So many people adored her, prayed for her, and loved her. She was brave beyond words, stronger than any child should have ever had to be, and a fierce warrior that taught us how to be brave, humble, and strong.

More than anything, Harper adored her family. She shared a special bond with her sister, Kate, who was also her best friend. Kate always made sure Harper was included in everything she did. Together they had fun painting, baking, reading books, playing Barbies, and building forts - to name a few. Harper also cherished the time she spent with her family, her nurses, her teachers and therapists, and especially her beloved, and other best friend, “Grammy.”

Harper is survived by her parents, Tom & Ashley; sister, Kate Allison; brother, Luke Allison; grandparents, Patty & Bill Coleman, John & Amy Allison, and Janet Salm; great-grandmother, Polly Allison; aunts, Tara (Stephen) Allison and Missy (Alex) Salm; and several great aunts, uncles and cousins who loved her and will all miss her dearly.

Harper was proceeded in death by her grandfather, George Salm; and great-grandfather, Milo Allison.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Harper’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to her nurses, teachers, and therapists for the compassionate care they provided.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Family Life Funeral Homes – Pickford assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com.