Gladys Vreeland Niper, 87, of Beloit, WI, died March 31, 2017 after a long illness. Born May 28, 1929, in Hackettstown, she was a daughter of the late George and Lulu Vreeland. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Howard, her daughter Lani Niper Justus, and her sister, Jay Vreeland.
A graduate of Hackettstown High School, Gladys married Howard Niper and owned and operated Niper Studio for over 30 years. During those years she was a member of Trinity Methodist Church, the Eastern Star, and Soroptomist International. The Nipers were involved in many aspects of Hackettstown life including Memorial Day parades and promoting and improving small businesses.
In the mid 90's Gladys and Howard moved to Beloit, WI, to be closer to their daughter Lani and their grandson Jesse. Gladys was a creative and accomplished oil painter and china painter. She was generous with her art as many friends enjoyed receiving samples of her work, often personalized, which will help keep her memory alive. She attended the First Congregational Church of Beloit, volunteered at a local thrift shop, and was active with the Marine Corps League.
She is survived by her grandson, Jesse Justus, his wife Katie, and their infant son Jonah of Sheboygan, WI. She also leaves behind a niece, Judy Niper Van Noy of Titusville, NJ, and several great-nieces and nephews.
A graveside memorial service will be held at noon on Wednesday, April 5, at Pequest Union Cemetery, Great Meadows. All services are under the direction of the Cochran Funeral Home, 905 High Street, Hackettstown, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Alzheimer's Association, 225 North Michigan Avenue, Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601