Robert L. "Bob" Harkness' Obituary
Robert L. “Bob” Harkness, age 96, passed away Friday, April 4, 2025. He was born October 21, 1928, in Muskegon Heights, MI, to Ray and Willma (Ross) Harkness. Bob was a U.S. Air Force Korean War Veteran, serving from 1950-1955. Bob spent many years working as an electrician, most notably at S.D. Warren, where both his co-workers and employer held him and his work in high regard. A proud member of I.B.E.W. Local 275, Bob cherished the good times he shared with his fellow electricians over the years, and their camaraderie meant a great deal to him. On June 20, 1952, he married the love of his life, the former Betty Tatters, in Wichita Falls, TX, and she preceded him in death on April 2, 2020 after 67 wonderful years of marriage. Bob was a huge Muskegon Big Reds football fan, loved to hunt and fish, and put on fish fry’s following a good catch. He loved playing cards, going on family camping trips, water skiing, and riding dirt bikes in his younger years. Bob had a great sense of humor and always appreciated a good joke. But above all, he treasured the time spent with his family. Bob will be sadly missed by his children: Betty (Larry) Duiser, Amy (Dan) Dobb, and David (Ruth) Harkness (Ruth preceded him in death); grandchildren: Paul (Helen) Dobb, Daniel Dobb, Jennifer Dobb, Tim (Siera) Duiser, and Pat (Allison) Duiser; step-granddaughter: Kristen Abair; great-grandchildren: Brady and Brynlee Duiser, Crew and Tate Duiser, and Charleigh Dobb; and a step great-grandson, Devin Rakowski; and several nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Roline VanDop. Bob’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to his caregivers, Caitlin and Mandy at Harbor Hospice, and Karen at Care Line, for the exceptional care they provided to Bob and his family during this challenging time. A VISITATION with Bob’s family will be held from 5-7 PM on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444 (231) 798-1100. A PRIVATE Graveside will be held at Norton Cemetery. The family requests donations to the Harbor Hospice Foundation in lieu of flowers. Share memories with the family at their online Guest Book at www.sytsemafh.com
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