James E. Harder

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Harder, James E. age 74, of Edina, passed away Feb. 16, 2017. Preceded in death by his parents, William F. & Alice H. Harder; brother, Dr. David Harder (Pam) and first wife, Judy Harder. Survived by his wife, Jill (Jardine); his children, Brett (Ursula) Harder and Tracy (Jeff) Gagnon; brother, Tom (Wynn) Harder; grandchildren, Makai and Ashley Harder; stepchildren, Matthew (Lea) Swenson and Molly (John) Cox, and his step-grandchildren, Olivia and Ruby Swenson, and Charlie and Josie Cox. Born in Litchfield, MN, Jim was a gifted athlete and played football, basketball and baseball throughout high school earning All-Conference, All-State and MVP honors. He went on to play all three sports for Gustavus Adolphus College where he was again named All-Conference and MVP, graduating in 1964. Jim enjoyed a successful career as a manufacturer's representative, founding Harder Sales in 1978. He retired from the business at 62 and pursued his passion for golf with many good buddies in Tonto Verde, AZ, along with his wife Jill. He returned to the business world in 2008, working for Promark International. Jim made many new business friends in his travels to Asia before his second retirement at 73. Memorials may be given to the Marie Steiner Kelting Hospice Home, Chaska, MN. The family wishes to thank the caring staff there along with all the family and friends who have supported Jim throughout his battle with cancer. Memorial service Tuesday, March 7, 4:00 pm at Normandale Lutheran Church, 6100 Normandale Blvd., Edina, MN 55436. Visitation one hour prior to service at the church. (For directions, see website: normluth.org). Washburn-McReavy.com Edina Chapel 952-920-3996

Published on March 5, 2017