Eugene Leslie Harms, 89

Eugene Leslie Harms was born to Pete and Fannie (Koehn) Harms on June 14, 1932, in Ulysses, Kan. He peacefully passed away Oct. 25, 2021, surrounded by family. He was 89 years of age.

His earlier years were spent in Ulysses, Kan., working the family farm; learning skills such as welding, mechanics, and many more from his father. After giving his heart to the Lord, he was baptized into the church of God in Christ, Mennonite, on March 27, 1947, by Minister Hiram Mininger. He was joined in marriage to Frances Smith, on Jan. 16, 1952, by Minister Vernon Nightingale. They enjoyed a very close relationship for 55 years. This union was blessed with four sons and one daughter.

In 1978, we started a new adventure, moving to Bonners Ferry, Idaho. Living in Paradise Valley was a change from the flat lands of Kansas. After a few years, the family owned and operated Bi-Rite Building Supply. Some years later, Dad enjoyed working with the public at Dyck’s Oil and Auto.

Dad lived life to the fullest, but he especially enjoyed his family. He took them on vacation to the Colorado mountains, where they were often joined by relatives. He loved keeping a garden and did so all his life. Singing with his sons, hunting, fishing, and making cedar chests for his granddaughters and hall trees for his grandsons were among his favorite hobbies. He never knew a stranger.

In 2007, our family circle was broken when Mom passed away, leaving Dad very lonesome for his “Petunia.”

The last two and a half years of his life were spent in Sunset Home. He often told us that, “The workers are the best!” We, as the family, can’t express our gratitude for the quality of care and love provided especially at the end. Dad needed and loved his Savior throughout his life; and we look forward to meeting him in Heaven.

Those left to cherish the memories are his children, Arnold and Diane of Hurricane, Utah, Cecil and Carol of Hazelton, Idaho, Troy and Sue of Bonners Ferry, Wade and Elaine, Hazelton, Idaho, and Doreen and Jeremy Amoth of Bonners Ferry; 20 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and one sister, Letha and Merle Koehn of Montezuma, Kan. He was preceded in death by his wife, Frances; his parents and one sister.