Harmon Smith

SMITH HARMON G. MADISON-Harmon Grant Smith, age 88, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 29, 2009 in Madison. He was born February 16, 1920, in Sheboygan, the son of Roy and Lenore (Kuhlman) Smith. Harmon was united in marriage to Verna Wentworth on August 22, 1942 in Edgerton , WI. They shared 63 wonderful years together. He was a veteran of the US Army, having proudly represented his country during World War II. Harmon was a deacon at the Union Church in Hinsdale, Illinois. He also served as vice president for R.G. Smith Equipment in Des Plaines, Illinois; a company founded and owned by his brother, Roger Smith. Harmon was on the board of directors of the Yahara House in Madison. His love of the outdoors was exemplified by many years of camping (even staying in a yurt at age 88!), canoeing, and last, but certainly not least, bicycling. His trademark warm smile, folding bike, and love of people served him well in business and life. He will be sorely missed. Harmon is survived by his children, Grant (Diane) Smith, of Middleton, Craig Smith, of Madison and Lynn (Gordon) Smith-Hirsig, of Chicago; two granddaughters, Kristine Steele and Cheryl Smith; five great-grandchildren, Jacob, Jonah, Shayla, Shalome and Ariel, and two nieces, Pat and Shirley Smith. He was preceded in death by his wife, Verna; his parents; a brother, Roger and a sister in her early youth. Memorial services will be held at the GUNDERSON WEST FUNERAL HOME, 7435 University Ave., Middleton at 6:30 PM on Wednesday, February 4, 2009. Family and friends may call on Wednesday from 4:00 PM until the time of the service at the funeral home. There will also be a service in Port Washington on Saturday, February 7, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at the FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, 131 N. Webster Street, Port Washington. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Yahara House, 802 E. Gorham Street, Madison, WI 53703.