Willard M. “Tex” Harsh, 100, of Patterson Heights, passed away on March 7, 2024. He was born November 11, 1923 in Morning Sun, Iowa to Russell and Arminta (Allen) Harsh.

Willard was preceded in death by his siblings: Eleanor (Everett) Cummings, Grace (Larry) Coon, Robert (Betty) Harsh and Alice (Ray) Pilling.

Willard is survived by his wife of nearly 73 years, Marjorie (Hill) Harsh, his sons, Mark and wife Sandy Hienz, Russ and wife Sheila, Brian and wife Linda and Brad Harsh, and daughter Janet Harsh; grandchildren; Eric (Laura) Harsh, Kelly (Jeff) Manning, Allison (Andy) Dixon and Alex Harsh; great-grandchildren; Charlotte Manning, Peyton, Channing and Harper Harsh and Luke and Colby Dixon. Step-granddaughters; Rachel Hienz (Marty Goffenhofen) and Erin (Hayden) Lutz; Step-great-grandchildren; Bishop and Ryan Lutz. He also had one cousin, Paul Mathews and many nephews and nieces.

He served in the Army Air Corps during WWII as a tail -gunner on a B-24 Liberator, flying 30 missions in China, Burma and India, and received 4 medals, while in the service. He graduated from Geneva College and retired from B&W. Willard had been an active member of First Reformed Presbyterian Church in Patterson Township. He was known in Patterson Heights as “ the man who walked and picked-up litter”.

Rev. Matt Filbert and Rev. Bruce Backensto officiated at the private funeral service.

A favorite Bible verse was, “I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me”.  Philippians 4:13