Richard “Rich” Harker, age 79 of Shullsburg passed away Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2017 at his home with his family by his side. He was born Dec. 20, 1937 in Shullsburg the son of Ray and Elva (Glindinning) Harker. Rich graduated from Shullsburg High School in 1956. He married the love of his life, Janet M. Schwartz on Feb. 20, 1960 at the Immanuel United Church of Christ in Darlington. Rich farmed most of his life and worked for Teasdale-Gill Auction Services for many years.  He lived in Shullsburg his entire life where he raised his family.
Rich is survived by his wife Janet at home; six children: John (Pam) Harker, Rose Doyle, and Susan (Dan) Morrissey all of Shullsburg, Loretta (Dave) Ingram of Rock City, Ill., Mary (Gary) Horras of Waunakee, and Bernadine (Mark) Salathe of Darlington; 17 Grandchildren; 14 Great-Grandchildren; nieces, nephews, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents: Ray and Elva Harker; his father and mother-in-law: Joseph (Cecelia) Schwartz; one son: Allen Harker; one uncle: Dave Glindinning, one brother-in-law: Gary Magee; and one nephew: Lucas Lee.
Rich was a member of the Centenary United Methodist Church in Shullsburg. He was quite the antique collector and spent a lot of time at auctions and sales. Rich was a quiet, genuine, and sarcastic individual who always knew how to put a smile on anyone’s face. He cherished the time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren creating memories that will stay with them forever. He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by his family and friends.
A funeral service was held Monday, Oct. 16, 2017 at 11:00 A.M. at Centenary United Methodist Church (226 West Church St, Shullsburg) with Rev. Stanton Bockwoldt officiating. Burial was in Evergreen Cemetery.  A visitation was held Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017 from 3:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. at Centenary United Methodist Church and on Monday from 10:00 A.M. until 10:45 A.M. at the church. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.
For those who prefer, a memorial fund has been established in Rich’s name.