Jerry Harter 1943-2023

Jerry Allen Harter, a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2023, at St. Luke’s Heart Institute in Kansas City, Mo.

Born on Jan. 22, 1943, in Bern, Jerry is survived by his wife of 60 years, Barbara; daughter, Deborah Reding (Kevin Reding) of Leoti; granddaughter Megan Robertson (Clay Robertson); great-granddaughter Lillian Robertson of Manhattan; grandson, Logan Reding of Manhattan; two sisters; and two brothers. Jerry is preceded in death by his son, Mark Harter; grandson Lane Reding; and twin brother Jim Harter; along with a brother and a sister. Jerry was known for his kindness, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to his family and community.

After graduating from high school, Jerry pursued a degree in accounting at Emporia State University. He went on to have a successful career as an accountant at Goodyear, where he made lasting friendships and gained the respect of his colleagues. In addition to his work as an accountant, Jerry also enjoyed substitute teaching and driving a school bus for Royal Valley High School, which allowed him to be a positive influence on many young lives.

Jerry’s commitment to his community was further demonstrated by his 40 years of service on the Fire Board. He was passionate about ensuring the safety and well-being of his neighbors and took great pride in his role on the board.

A true sports enthusiast, Jerry was an avid fan of both college and professional sports. He was loyal to his local teams and rarely missed a game. In his spare time, he could often be found working in his yard or tending to his garden, where he took great pleasure in growing beautiful flowers and fresh vegetables.

Above all, Jerry cherished the time he spent with his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Barbara Harter, with whom he shared many happy years of marriage. Together, they raised their daughter and son Mark Harter and Deborah Reding, who married Kevin Reding and blessed Jerry with two wonderful grandchildren, Megan Robertson and Logan Reding. Jerry was overjoyed when he became a great-grandfather to Lillian Robertson, the daughter of Megan and her husband, Clay Robertson.

Jerry’s love for his family was evident in everything he did, from attending his children’s activities throughout their whole lives to his grandchildren’s school events and performances. He was always there to offer support, encouragement and a listening ear, and his presence will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

In his later years, Jerry faced several health challenges with grace and determination. His strength and resilience inspired those around him, and he continued to live life to the fullest despite any obstacles that came his way. Ultimately, it was a stroke that claimed Jerry’s life, but his spirit and legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched.

A celebration of Jerry’s life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to honor his memory and share stories of his kindness, love and unwavering dedication to those he held dear. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Hoyt Fire Department and sent to Denison State Bank in Jerry’s name as a testament to his lifelong commitment to the safety and well-being of his community.

Jerry Allen Harter will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend. His kindness, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to his family and community will be cherished by all who knew him. May he rest in peace, knowing that his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Fond memories and condolences may be left at www.midwest-cremation.com

(PAID OBITUARY)