Witt, Harlan E. Jr. 1926-2009

WITT, BEEBOUT, SHEPARD

Posted By: Ernie Braida (email)
Date: 1/11/2010 at 15:35:10

Harlan Eugene Witt Jr. was born to Harlan and Hazel (Beebout) Witt Sr. on November 4, 1926 in rural Lucas County. The family soon moved to Columbia where Harlan attended grade school and graduated from Knoxville High School in 1944.

When Harlan was a junior in high school, he enlisted in the Army Air Corps. As soon as he turned 18 he was inducted into the infantry. He was shipped out to Mindanao in the Philippines where he served as a quarter master for two years.

Maybe these early travels gave him the desire to see as much of the world as possible. Along with his wife and family they first visited the 48 states and then Hawaii and Alaska, then visited 80 countries. Harlan and Roberta also enjoyed winters in Apache Junction, AZ. Harlan loved his family, enjoyed children, farming and reading.

In 1950, he married Roberta Shepard. They were blessed with two children: Janet and John. Harlan worked for Goff & Nash Auto Parts in Knoxville before managing the NAPA store in Albia for over 30 years. Service to his customers is what made his store a success.

After retiring Harlan and Roberta moved to Chariton, Roberta's hometown. This was also closer to the Witt family farm, where he enjoyed many hours and to the Columbia United Methodist Church where he was a long time member.

He passed away September 4, 2009 at the Lucas County Health Center in Chariton.

He will be missed by his wife of 59 years, Roberta (Shepard) Witt; his daughter Janet (Darvin) Marquardt of Ames; his son John of Aptos, CA; five grandchildren; two great granddaughters; and his brother Jerry (Carolyn) Witt of Knoxville.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The American Legion will provide burial honors at the Columbia Cemetery.

Pierschbacher Funeral Home Sept. 2009