Harper Lynn Hochhalter

Harper Lynn Hochhalter, age 9, of Salem, Oregon, went home to be with Jesus surrounded by the love of her family.

God gave Erik and Brittney the extraordinary gift of loving Harper for 3,299 days. While He entrusted her to their care, they know He held her hand every single one of those days.

To know Harper was to know the purest form of love. She embodied the Fruit of the Spirit-love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Even in the midst of her own challenges, she cared deeply for others and had a remarkable way of making every person feel seen and loved.

Harper was born with KAT6A syndrome, a rare genetic condition that she carried with strength and grace. Though her diagnosis brought medical complexities, it never defined her. What defined Harper was her joy, her deep connection with God, and the way she brought others closer to Christ simply by being who she was.

In her nine beautiful years, Harper accomplished what many strive for in a lifetime. She loved unconditionally. She forgave freely. She worshiped in her own way, often through humming, which became her special language. Her deep belly giggle, her "happy hands," her giant blue eyes, and the way she would gently hold your face or press her forehead to yours were gifts her family will cherish forever.

She is deeply missed by her devoted parents, Erik and Brittney Hochhalter; her beloved sisters, Hazel and Everly; grandparents; aunts and uncles; extended family; and a community who was forever changed by her life.

Though we find comfort knowing Harper is whole, healed, running and singing in Heaven, the ache of missing her remains. Her sisters miss her laughter and her tender affection. Her family misses her morning hugs, bath time routines, and the quiet, sacred ways she experienced the world.

Harper's life was a testimony of faith, resilience, and unconditional love. She leaves behind a legacy far greater than her nine years, a reminder to love purely, forgive quickly, and trust God fully.

A celebration of Harper's life will be held on March 1 at 2:00 p.m. at Salem First Church of the Nazarene, 1550 Market St NE, Salem, Oregon.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Harper's honor to the KAT6 Foundation to support research and families affected by KAT6 syndrome.