Obituary

Claude W. Harkness, 91

Claude W. Harkness was born March 30, 1908 in Scott County, Kansas, to William and Myrtle Minnich Harkness. He departed this life at his home in Garden City, Kansas, October 15, 1999.

When Claude was three months old, his father died and he was raised by his mother and step-father, Ed Crozier. He had been a resident of Garden City since 1925, moving from the Friend area in Scott County. He was an independent trucker and produce dealer for many years. After his military service, he engaged in farming in Kiowa County until his retirement.

Claude was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Garden City. He was also a lifetime member and past exalted ruler of the Elks Lodge #1404, Tyrian Masonic Lodge #246, and past member of the Harry H. Renick American Legion Post #9. Claude served in the US Marine Corps during World War II in the south Pacific on the USS Rutland. He enjoyed woodworking and silver smithing.

Claude married Thelma Wanita Coen November 1, 1933, in Garden City.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Roland Harkness; and sisters Lillian Caldwell, Lula Cowgill, Vona Crist Nations and Shirley Crozier.

Claude Harkness is survived by his wife; sons, Errol W. Harkness of Atlanta, Georgia, and Gregory Kim Harkness of Towner; daughter, Sharen Lea Siegel of Bridgewater, New Jersey; sisters, Carey Bretz of Garden City and Alda Wilken of Leoti, Kansas; 11 grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

Funeral services for Claude Harkness were held October 19, 1999, at the First United Methodist Church in Garden City with Rev. Janet Hernandez and Rev. Tom Rishel officiating. Interment followed at Valley View Cemetery in Garden City, with military grave side rites presented by the Garden City Area Veterans Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Kansas Elks Training Center for the Handicapped.

Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Price & Sons Funeral Home.