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Harlen Smith 07/15/2023

Harlen LeRoy Smith, age 79, died on Saturday, July 15, 2023 in River Falls. He was born the son of Burton “Bert” and Magdalene (nee Budd) Smith on November 1, 1943 in Texas. Harlen grew up in Emerald, WI and graduated from Glenwood City High School. Following high school, he joined the US Army and was honorably discharged. After the military, Harlen worked as a truck driver and owned his own company, Best Door Inc. Harlen married Charlene Elizabeth May and had three sons, Sean, Shad, and Shane.
Harlen loved spending time outdoors and owned a hobby farm. He was caring and present for everybody.
He is preceded in death by parents; sons, Sean and Shane; brother, Robert “Bobby”. Harlen is survived by wife, Charlene; son, Shad; grandchildren, Sasha (Zachary) Tiberg and Alexandra (Victor) Redus; great-grandchildren, Bentley Tiberg, Abel Tiberg, and Adeline Tiberg, Bradley Smith, Angel Redus, and Troy Redus; seven siblings; and many relatives and friends.  A memorial gathering was held on Friday, July 28, 2023 from 3:00-7:00 pm at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services (728 S Knowles Ave) New Richmond. Military Honors were performed by the American Legion Post 80 of New Richmond. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.

8 Comments

  • Judith Sheldon Posted July 17, 2023 6:49 pm

    Harlen was my cousin . Had lots of fun spending time on the farm with him when growing up.Also with his sister and brothers.. Rest in peace now.

  • Bonnie Moe VanBlaricom Posted July 18, 2023 12:33 pm

    Harlen was a classmate of mine , the class of 63 at GCHs.
    Sad to hear of his passing.

    • Judy M Wink Posted July 18, 2023 6:04 pm

      Jerry was our classmate. Harlen was in my brother Toms class of 62. They had a of 62 Class reunion last year and Harlen was there. Tom visited with him then.

  • Rita Johnson Posted July 23, 2023 8:47 am

    Always had a smile on his face or a smart comment. Ans what a dancer he was with his wife Charlene or anyone

  • Stephanie J Smith Posted July 24, 2023 11:23 am

    Uncle Harlan always brought energy wherever he went. His laugh always made everyone smile and he had something to say. Family gatherings are going to be a little less energetic but when we think of him, that spirit will shine through.

  • DENNIS BERENDS Posted July 24, 2023 9:12 pm

    Harlen was a great neighbor and good friend. He was a Past Grand Knight for Knights of Columbus Council 4954 in Glenwood City.

  • Alexandra Redus Posted August 3, 2023 7:19 am

    Harlen sure knew how to make someone feel so loved. He would help when a friend was in need. He was such an amazing grandfather and great grandfather to his grandchildren. Will surely be missed by everyone.

  • Nancy Wagner Posted December 18, 2023 10:00 pm

    Harlen became my friend after he moved back to Wis. And he was my brother in law.

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