JAMES HARNESS

Jim Harness, of Neenah, passed away peacefully in his home on Monday evening. Jim was born on August 12, 1931 and died on August 3, 2009, just short of his 78th birthday. Jim was the son of Everett and Imogene Harness, and was a life-long resident of Neenah. He married Margaret Muehlenbein in September of 1964. They raised their two children, Greg and Elaine, on their farm West of Neenah. Many may remember Jim for his love of growing plants. He sold bedding plants from the greenhouses he owned and operated on his farm, and then changed his home business from a greenhouse to a pick-your-own strawberry farm. Hundreds of people from the area enjoyed picking strawberries on his farm each year. After 30 successful years of strawberry farming, Jim was happy to retire so that he could pursue a full-time hobby. He spent the last few years of his life turning his yard into a spectacular display of flowers. His yard became so impressive that it was not uncommon for those driving past to stop in to adore his flower beds, while taking pictures and asking questions. Jim and Margaret even remodeled their home so that their living room had windows on all sides for viewing the stunning display. Jim was also an avid reader and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren who loved him very much. Jim is survived by his wife, Margaret; a daughter and son-in-law, Elaine and Kevin Larabee; a son and daughter-in-law, Greg and Wendy Harness; two brothers, Donald and Arthur Harness; five brother and sisters-in-law and their spouses; six grandchildren: Andrea and Joe Larabee, Cody, Laura, Daniel, and Aaron Harness; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister-in-law, Mary Harness. A celebration of Jims life will be held at 8:00 p.m. on Friday, August 7, 2009 at Neenahs Westgor Funeral Home with Chaplain Jordan Kuczwara officiating. Friends will be received at the funeral home from 4:00 p.m. until the hour of service. Interment will be in Brooks Cemetery, Town of Vinland, Wisconsin.