Harold Eugene "Gene" Harding

Harold Eugene “Gene” Harding, 90, of Elkhart, passed away on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at Elkhart General Hospital. He was born on March 3, 1934, in New Castle, IN, to the late Willard Harding and Vela Mae (Anderson) Thomas.

Gene is survived by his loving wife, Dianne (Mettert) Harding of Elkhart; sons, Michael Harding of Osceola, and Tim Harding of St. Petersburg, FL; grandson, Little Wolf of Osceola; sister, Patricia “Patty” Harding of New Castle; brother-in-law, Bryant (Jackie) Mettert of New Castle; bonus sons and longtime caretakers, Rudi Arive of St. Petersburg, FL, and Brendan Leech of Osceola; several nieces and nephews; and a loving host of extended family,  friends, and acquaintances.

In accordance with Gene’s wishes, cremation has been chosen. Billings Funeral Home of Elkhart is assisting the family with cremation arrangements.

Gene began working at the age of 16 for his local newspaper company, budding his passion for the printing industry. He worked for various companies after the newspaper gig, at one point starting his own business and being employed as a vocational teacher at the J. Everett Light Career Center in Indianapolis for many years to teach others all about the industry he so deeply loved.

Gene was also a proud 32nd-degree Freemason, being active for many years, along with proudly serving in the US Army.

In more recent years, Gene, alongside his wife, Dianne, were members of the Boardwalk Retirement Community Center Chapel, participating in devotions, musical and theatrical performances, and simply taking care of those around their community. Gene enjoyed being in the presence of others in this group and putting a smile on each person’s face.

In Gene’s spare time, enjoyed woodworking, storytelling, and music, the latter being a major part of his and his family’s lives. For over 52 years, he traveled alongside his son, Michael, to various cities for performances. It should be noted that on these trips, Gene also loved to be a comedian and entertainer. He would act as the comedic relief at Michael’s shows, always trying to keep the crowd engaged, happy, and smiling with his persona and comedy specials. However, when music was to be played, Gene loved to play the piano and organ, tuning into the rhythm of a song and instantly knowing how to play it on the keys. Music truly spoke to him and brought him and his family close together in a bond that will never be forgotten.

Gene will best be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend who always wanted to see the best in others. His stories, comedy, and musical talents will live in the hearts of those he loved, and Gene will be dearly missed.

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