Harry E. Hackbardt

Harry Eugene Hackbardt, age 80 of Howard City, loving husband, father, brother, grandfather and great-grandfather; went to be with Lord on Thursday, November 17, 2011, at his home with his family by his side. Harry honorably served 4 years in the US Navy. In 1953, he married Rose Mary Bennitt. Soon after, they worked hand in hand farming and raising five children. He worked as a custodian at Tri County Area Schools where he mentored many youth. Harry loved people, and always encouraged others to make good choices. He was devoted to his faith in the Lord. Harry served in many community associations – Ensley Zoning and Planning Board, Tri County Area School Board, Farm Bureau, and the South Ensley United Methodist Church committees. He was humbled when he was given the opportunity to speak at the 1994 graduation commencement, where he “dared” students to have faith in the Creator, in their dreams, to share their possessions, and to be thankful for the country they live in. Harry will be remembered for his strong faith, smile, laugh, kindness, energy, love of family and friends, incredible love for life, and his tenacity in work. He was a public servant. Harry was a very, very special man and an integral part of the community. Harry left us a legacy of good faith, good works and good will. He was an important part of our lives, simply a good man. God will say “Well done good and faithful servant”. He was always the same positive, easy-going person, who brought smiles to everyone. Harry was preceded in death by his wife, Rose. He is survived by his children, Sam & Julie (McBride), Kim & Kimberly (Baxter), Pam (Hackbardt) Castle, Bob & Angie (Hackbardt) Anderson, Dan & Lana (Richard); grandchildren, Joseph, Spencer & Becky, Marissa, Hanson, Janel, Hannah, Kaylee, Kelvin, Kelsy, Karmen, Kiana; great grandson, Quincen; siblings, Albert & Marge Hackbardt, Glen Hackbardt, and Marie & Roger Sickelsteel; sister-in-law, Dorothy Krampe. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, November 22 from 4 – 6 pm at Resurrection Life Church, 3233 10 Mile Road, Rockford with a memorial service at 6:00 pm with a luncheon to follow. Pastors Larry Young and Jorge Ballivian officiating. Memorial contributions can be sent to The Alzheimer’s Association, 2944 Fuller Ave NE, Ste. 101, Grand Rapids, MI 49505. Arrangements by Bliss-Witters & Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs.