James "Jim" D. Harshbarger

  He was born June 13, 1937 in Freeport, IL to Charles and Dorothy (Little) Harshbarger.  He first married Elaine Whitaker in 1956; he later married Sally Ault in 1971 (deceased).  He last married Marilyn Swanson on June 21, 2003 in Peoria County.  She survives.

  Also surviving are his children; Lori (J.R.) England of Peoria, Kellie (Gerald) Swigger of Thousand Oaks, CA, Shawn (Michele) Harshbarger, David (Wendy) Harshbarger, and Rene’ Danneels all of Peoria; six siblings; Jerry (Sharon) Harshbarger, Judy (Charles) Cunningham both of Peoria, Gene (Judy) Harshbarger of Harrison, OH, Joyce (Melvin) Lauterbach, Joan (Kent) Nelson both of Peoria, Jane (Dan) Boulton of Metamora; 19 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

  He was preceded in death by his parents and one grandson.

  Jim was a graduate of Limestone High School class of 1955.  He was a U.S. Navy Reserve veteran.

  Jim was a member of Teamsters Local 627 in Peoria and its retirees club.  He retired in 1994 after he gave 38 years of service as a truck driver to Sturm Freightways which later became Hyman.  Jim was a member of the Early Ford V8 Club and Slow Pokes Club.

  Jim was also a dedicated member and deacon of Peoria First Church of the Brethren and led the Mountain Mission trips to KY.  He was a respected member of a men’s prayer group and multiple church activities.  Jim was happiest when he was tinkering in the garage or helping someone in need.

  A celebration of life service for Jim will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, November 24, 2012 at Peoria First Church of the Brethren.  Pastor Dana McNeil will officiate.  Visitation will be one hour prior to services.  Cremation will be accorded.  Davison-Fulton Bartonville Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

  Memorials may be made to the Mountain Mission Fund at his church.

  Online tributes and condolences may be made at www.davison-fulton\bartonvillechapel.com.