John D. Harrelson

LIFE OF JOHN D. HARRELSON

John D. Harrelson of John Knox Village, age 85, passed away December 25, 2012.  He was born February 1, 1927 to Dewitt Harrelson and Winniebell Tompson in St. Louis, MO.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years—Delores; son—Dudley (D.J.); Charles (Linda); four grandsons—Daniel (Tracy); Chris (Sara); Curtis (Jennifer); Brian (Jana); and eight beautiful great grandchildren.

He graduated from Southwest High School and then joined the U.S. Merchant Marines a few months later.  He sailed around the world a number of times transporting soldiers, cargo, equipment in the World War II effort; also helping in the Marshal Plan to restore Europe after the surrender of Germany.

After returning home he continued his education in business at the Washington University Night School.  He was employed by Carter Carburetor Corp. for many years in accounting, sales, and purchasing.  In 1972 he and his wife bought the Baskin Robbins business in Ladue and other stores.

John was active in the Boys Scouts of America, and was cub master as well as scout master during the time his sons were involved in Scouts.  He was a member of the Order of the Arrow.

They retired in ’85 and moved to Hot Springs Village, AR in ‘89 to fulfill John’s dream of living on a 1,000 acre lake, Lake Balboa. They built a lovely home on the lake.  Here they hosted many family events including a Verseman family reunion.  Here ain the Village he was famous for growing and harvesting Shiitake mushrooms and his unique recipe for Hoosier Herring.  John enjoyed many years of fishing, boating, swimming, tennis and fun with his grandchildren and Village friends. This was a dream come true.

He was also active at Christ Lutheran Church and a charter member of Community of Joy Lutheran Church.  There he showed his commitment by volunteering many hours to his church including creating and building the information sign, participating in the ground breaking ceremony, recycling aluminum beverage cans (ABC) and served on the committee of the Memorial Garden.

John was a dedicated man who served the Lord not only with words but with action.  His commitment to his family was second to none.  He loved his family and friends and we will miss him immensely.