HENRY “HANK” HARMON, 97, of Lebanon, Missouri, passed away peacefully in his home on August 20, 2024.
Born in Brumley, Missouri, Hank spent his early years in DePue, Illinois, before returning to Missouri during the Great Depression. He enlisted in the Navy after Pearl Harbor, serving as a First Class Petty Officer aboard the USS ATTU in the South Pacific during World War II.
After the war, Hank returned to Richland to complete his high school education. It was there he met the love of his life, Marjorie Rubottom, in the newspaper publications classroom. Their partnership would span decades and form the foundation of a loving family.
Hank’s adventurous spirit and desire for knowledge led him to photography school in Los Angeles and later to the University of Missouri, Columbia, where he earned a degree in business. He and Marjorie married in 1949 and started their family, eventually welcoming two children: Millie Harmon Gann of Lebanon and Ted Harmon of Camdenton.
A true entrepreneur, Hank was instrumental in shaping the Lebanon business community. After spending some time in Wichita with his young family, Hank returned to Lebanon where he helped his mother-in-law, Lavaughan Rubottom, run the Yellow Jacket Grill. This experience helped him grow his passion and dedication for other business opportunities and community partnerships.
He owned and operated the Holiday Inn, Shepherd Hills Restaurant, MilTed apartment buildings, and was involved in several other business ventures. His contributions extended beyond commerce; he served on several councils and foundations, including many years at the country club, was a founding member of the local VFW chapter, and dedicated over 50 years as a Shriner.
Hank’s zest for life was evident in his many passions. He spent time in mid-life as a pilot, loved traveling with his wife, was an avid golf enthusiast, and a voracious reader. He never missed a good barbecue and cherished time spent with friends and family.
He is survived by his daughter, Millie Gann of Lebanon; four grandchildren: Amy (Ryan) and their son Henry of Sante Fe; Matthew (Jackie) and their daughter Wren of Lawrence, Kansas; Katie Haney (Ben) and their children Layla, Titan, Anora, Vaughan, Scarlet, and Phoenix; and Megan Slye (Jeremy) and their children Finnley, Rory, Calahan, and Ardyn; all of Lebanon.
Hank was preceded in death by his wife, Marjorie, his son Ted Harmon of Camdenton, and his 5 siblings.
Hank Harmon’s life was a testament to the values of hard work, community service, positive outlook, and family devotion. He will be deeply missed and thought of often by all who knew him.
Although Marjorie passed in 2008, they requested to celebrate their passing like they celebrated everything in life; together. A memorial for them both will be held on Saturday, June 21 at The Laclede County Shriner’s Building at 4:30 p.m. This gathering will be a celebration of their life together and the love they showed each other, their family, and friends. In true Harmon style, hor-d’oeuvres and a bar will be open. Please come with stories and photos to share if you are willing.
In lieu of flowers, please feel free to donate to the
Shriner’s Hospital in memory of Hank, and the local Laclede County Library in honor of Marjorie.
Arrangements are under the direction of Shadel’s Colonial Chapel of Lebanon. Sign guest book at www.shadelscolonialchapel.com.
