James Edgar Harker

James Edgar Harker, age 72, passed away surrounded by his family on Wednesday, December 11, 2019 at his home in Osceola.  Jim was born August 27, 1947 in Mishawaka, Indiana to the late Chet and Edith (Kline) Harker.  Jim attended Mishawaka High School, and later enlisted in the US Army during the Vietnam War where he served honorably until his discharge in 1967.
Jim is survived by his soulmate of over 30 years, Christine Allen of Osceola, and his children James E. Harker Jr. of Elkhart, Lori Harker of Phoenix, Arizona, Dustan Allen of Elkhart, and Laura Allen of Mishawaka.  Surviving as well are seven grandchildren and nine great grandchildren as well as his sister, Mary Willits of South Bend. Jim was preceded in death by his brother, John Harker. 
Visitation will be held two hours prior (4-6pm) to the 6:00pm Celebration of Jim’s life on Monday, December 16, 2019 at Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola.  Military honors will follow the ceremony. 
Jim was employed for over 30 years as a Union Carpenter with Local 413 before retiring at the age of 57.  Though he retired from the Union, Jim was known as “Mr. Fix-it” and was often called upon by his family and friends to help with their construction and home projects.  He will be remembered as the “go-to” guy by many, because he always helped those in need with a cheerful and positive attitude. He will also be remembered as an extremely patriotic American and a “people person” who never knew a stranger.  
In his spare time, Jim enjoyed pitching horseshoes and played in many tournaments throughout the years.  He was also a longtime member of the American Legion Post 308 in Osceola and enjoyed attending the Vietnam Veteran’s reunions in Kokomo, Indiana. 
In his memory, donations may be made to the Leukemia Foundation through the American Cancer Society online at www.cancer.org.   To view Jim’s online video tribute, light a virtual candle in his memory, or leave a word of condolence for the Harker family, please visit our website at www.CruzFamilyFH.com
 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James Edgar Harker, please visit our floral store.