Harlan Elmer Schmieg passed away March 23, 2023. Surrounded by his family he went into the arms of Jesus after a 2 ½ year battle with cancer.
Harlan was born on Oct. 25, 1944 in Mpls., MN to Elmer and Orella (nee Luhman) Schmieg of Howard Lake, MN. He was baptized and confirmed at St. James Lutheran Church of Howard Lake. He attended St. James School through 8th grade and graduated from Howard Lake High School in 1962.
Harlan enjoyed family gatherings. He was a blessing to his family, always willing to help and pray for others. He prayed also for the country that he loved.
In 1965, he went to work at Lester’s Inc. in the Polyfoam Bldg. In 1968, he began work at MTS in Eden Prairie, MN. He returned to the family farm in 1979, when his dad retired. Harlan was always striving for excellence at whatever he did. He was awarded trophies from National Farmers in 1982 & 1984 for superior quality in milk production.
In 1990, after selling the milk cows, Harlan went to work for Dura Supreme Cabinetry where he stayed until retirement.
In retirement he drove for Wright County Human Services, delivered Meals on Wheels, and volunteered at Save & Share Thrift Store in Cokato.
Since 2001, he has been active in Square and round dancing as a member of the Westonka Whirlers Square Dance Club.
Harlan was well known as a friendly person with a pleasant smile. He enjoyed old country western and Gospel music, planting flowers, and keeping detailed accounting records. He was a lifelong member of St. James Lutheran Church and served on the Cemetery Board and as a long time usher.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister-in-law Judy Schmieg, nephew Ricky Schmieg, niece Connie Baumann and great niece McKenzie Compton.
He is survived by brother Gary (Ruth) of Cokato, brother Dale (Evelyn) of Howard Lake, sister Carolyn (Dane) Compton of Garfield, MN, brother Merlyn (Karen) of Howard Lake, brother Mark (Barb) of Howard Lake, and sister Bev (David) Allen of Howard Lake, 8 nieces, 8 nephews, and many other relatives and friends.
Funeral services are Wednesday, March 29th, at 2:00, at St. James Lutheran in Howard Lake with a visitation beginning at 1:00. Arrangements by Swanson-Peterson Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Howard Lake. www.swansonpeterson.com 320-543-3401
Pall bearers are nephews Michael Schmieg, Paul Compton, Jason Schmieg, Dan Schmieg, Tim Schmieg, and Cord Allen.
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