Harvey Degenhardt
Harvey J. Degenhardt, 90, Loyal, passed away at Clark County Rehabilitation and Living Center in Owen, on Wednesday, July 19, 2023, and took the Lord’s hand to walk through His heavenly gates. A private family memorial service will be held at a later date.
Harvey James Degenhardt was born to Frank and Gertrude (Vogel) Degenhardt on Jan. 5, 1933, in Loyal. He was raised and received his education in Loyal, graduating from Loyal High School in 1951. He was a lifelong member of St. Anthony Catholic Church, where his faith was a strong part of his life. At one time, he considered joining the seminary to devote his days to his Lord. Things changed on Sept. 18, 1951, when he was joined in marriage, at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Loyal, to Bonnie Schmidtke of rural Granton. They spent 72 years together raising a family of six children. While raising his family, Harvey worked at Borden Company, until the refrigeration plant closed. He would later retire from Land O’ Lakes of Spencer.
Never sitting still for long, he was active in his community and helped wherever and whenever he could. He was a volunteer fireman and a member of the original ambulance department. For many years, he lit the skies up on the Fourth of July for the community fireworks. Harvey was also active in the Loyal Historical Society. If there was snow to be moved or a lawn that needed mowing, he was always there to lend a helping hand. In his younger years, between working and volunteering, he enjoyed his time on his ham radio and building planes. He loved woodworking with endless fix-it projects and turning unwanted items into treasures. He watched his three sons join the military and said many prayers until their safe returns home; and, he proudly saw two grandsons and one great-grandson move into military positions.
He will be dearly missed by his wife, Bonnie; his children: Jim (Theresa), Arthur (Patricia), Christine (Gary) Stetz, Bruce (Shannon), Marie (Terry) Schoer, and Rosann (Kevin) Fellenz; 12 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; four great-great grandchildren; and two sisters: Darlene Klann and Nancy Schmidt.
Harvey was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers: Donald, Albert, and Kenneth; and one sister: Susie Kohlnhofer.
On behalf of the Degenhardt family, a special thank you to all the staff at the Clark County Rehabilitation and Living Center for their care, kindness and help with making Harvey comfortable during his final days.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.cuddiefh.com. Cuddie Funeral Home, Loyal, is assisting the family with arrangements.
PAID OBITUARY 140539
