Harlen A. Ward

Harlen A. Ward, age 95 of Hastings, died at Hastings Senior Health & Living on Thursday, September 28, 2023.

Harlen was born January 17, 1928 in Sylvan, Wisconsin at home. He farmed until he went into the Navy at the age of 17. After serving his country, he met his Sweetheart, Dolly, in 1947. They were married in Rockbridge, Wisconsin June 9, 1949. He cut brush for Dairyland highline poles in northern Wisconsin when they first got married. After Dairyland, he worked for the cheese factory in Gillingham. He started driving truck in 1954. They moved from the country into Richland Center, Wisconsin. In 1958 they moved to LeCrescent, Minnesota. They then moved to Hastings in 1973, where he continued to drive truck for 40 years. He loved riding motorcycles, hunting, and telling jokes. He was always soft-spoken.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Dolly; parents; sons, Kenneth and Jeffery; and by his grandson, Nicholas.

Harlen is survived by his loving children, Myron (Janelle) Ward, Larry Ward, Susan (Roger) Klein, Sandra (James) Knower, Ted (Diane) Ward, and John Ward (friend, Marie Mike); thirteen grandchildren and twenty-one great grandchildren with another on the way; sister, Arbutus Schumacher; and by many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

In keeping with Harlen and Dolly's wishes, a private family service will be held. Interment will be held at Lakeside Cemetery in Hastings Saturday, October 14 at 2:30 PM.

In lieu of flowers, Harlen and Dolly's family requests memorials be made to homeless Veteran's in their memory.

For guestbook and further information, please visit www.hastingsmnfuneral.com

Arrangements are being completed by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.