Don Harker, 91

Richard D. “Don” Harker age 91 of Sturgis, passed away early Thursday morning, February 7, 2019 at Thurston Woods Village in Sturgis.
He was born February 8, 1927 in Chicago, son of the late Chester and Dora (Neusom) Harker.
Don resided in Sturgis since 1979 coming from Battle Creek. He had also lived in North Hollywood, California and his early life was spent in Chicago.
Don was proud to have served his country during WWII in the U.S. Army. While stationed in Berlin, Germany he met his future wife, Ruth W. Wagner. The couple were married August 3, 1946 in Battle Creek.
Most of his working life was in the construction industry and he was a lather by trade. He also owned and operated Don’s Locksmith Service in Sturgis.
Don was a talented artist. He enjoyed participating at area shows and activities where he sold his oil paintings and portraits.
He was a Life member and Past Commander of Captain John J. Kelley Post #1355 VFW, Life Member of Neuman-Wenzel Post #73 American Legion and a past member of Eagle Lodge #1314. For many years Don could be found carrying the American Flag leading the Memorial Day parade.
He is survived by his loving and dedicated wife of 72 years: Ruth; four daughters: Rosemarie (Tom) Dibble of Sturgis, Shirley (Larry) Carter of Portland, Donna (Charles) Rogers of Battle Creek and Joyce (Fred) Mazzoni of Sturgis; one son: Rick (Michelle) Harker of Gainesville, Florida; 16 grandchildren; several great grandchildren; one sister: Barbara June Sanford of Battle Creek and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and twin-sister: Jewel Daniels.
In accordance with his wishes cremation has taken place. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 3:00 P.M. Sunday at the Hackman Chapel of Hackman Family Funeral Homes, 114 S. Nottawa St., Sturgis, MI 49091, 269-651-2331. Private burial of the ashes will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta at a later date where full military honors will be conferred by the Fort Custer Honor Guard and the U.S. Army Honor Guard.
The family suggests those wishing to make a memorial donation in Mr. Harker’s memory consider V.F.W. Post #1355, 264 W. Fawn River Rd., Sturgis, MI 49091.
The obituary is also at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com where personal messages of support may be left for the family.