Section: 326 Lot: 90 Grave: 2

Obituary

Richard “Dick” Harken age 74, of West Des Moines, Ia, passed away peacefully at his home early Saturday, August 1, 2020. Richard was born on April 6, 1946 to Urban and Louise (Wubbena) Harken in Burlington, IA.
Dick married Janelle (Nesius) Harken on June 7, 1970 at Zion United Church of Christ in Burlington, IA They had two sons, James (Mary) Harken of Cedar Rapids, and Andrew (Leigh Anna) Harken of Ossining, NY. Richard was the proud Grandpa to Lucas, 9, Michael 8, and Dominick, 7, and his family was always the center of his life. He loved watching the boys play baseball.
He is survived by his wife, one brother, Dennis (Delores) Harken of Lansdale, PA and one sister, Linda Brooks of Cedar Falls, IA, a brother-in-law, Charles Landstrom of Burlington, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws, and a nephew, Scott Matthew Harken.
Dick graduated from Burlington High School, class of 1964, the University of Dubuque, and the Dubuque Theological Seminary. He received his Doctor of Ministries Degree from Dubuque in 1986. He served as a Presbyterian minister for 40 years. He was the beloved pastor of congregations in Alexis, IL, Jesup, IA, and Boone, IA. He worked with many helping organizations in central Iowa and held many positions at the Presbytery level. Dick was a voracious reader, a chocoholic, he enjoyed walks and nature, playing cards with our friends, he enjoyed cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals, but his very favorite activity was spending time with his grandsons.
A private graveside service will be at Aspen Grove Cemetery in Burlington, Iowa, with P. Alex Thornburg officiating. A celebration of life will be held at a later date due to the coronavirus.
Memorials may be directed to Heartland Presbyterian Church of Clive, Iowa, or Cross Outreach of Des Moines.