Michael A. Harshbarger, retired mechanic

Michael “Mick” Allen Harshbarger, 69, of Millsboro, formerly of West Valley, N.Y., passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2012, at his home.

Mr. Harshbarger was born Feb. 27, 1942, in Mascoutah, Ill., son of the late Donald and Zela (Winkler) Harshbarger. Mick was employed as a mechanic and wastewater treatment engineer with the Tunnell Companies in Millsboro before his retirement in 2011 with 10 years of service. Mr. Harshbarger was a member of the Masons and the VFW in New York before moving to Delaware 12 years ago. He was a very patriotic man, serving his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam era. Mick enjoyed collecting World War II memorabilia and helping out his neighbors with any household project. He will always be remembered as a talented and loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Desiree Smith; a brother, Samuel Harshbarger; and a sister, Caroline Owczarczak. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 50 years, Patricia A. (Meyers) Harshbarger; a daughter, Rikki Rowland and her husband Gregory of Arkansas; a grandson whom he raised, Joshua Harshbarger and his girlfriend Jessica Flury of Millsboro; two other grandsons, Gregory and Harley Rowland of Arkansas; and a great-grandson, Noah Harshbarger; two brothers, Larry Harshbarger of Springville, N.Y., and Shawn Harshbarger of Florida; a sister, Audrey Cortez of Georgia; and a dear friend, Richard Keklak of Millsboro.

Service and burial are private.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Mick’s name to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.