Mr. Harold Weesner

Harold Weesner, 91, of Tampa, Florida, passed away suddenly at home on April 10, 2022, surrounded by his loving family.

Harold was born November 2, 1930, in Tampa, Florida. He attended Hillsborough High School, participating in track and basketball, graduating in 1948. He proudly served in the National Guard and U.S. Army as a sergeant 1951-1955. He married the love of his life, Marguerite Webb, in 1952. On the day of his passing, he celebrated his 70th wedding anniversary.

Harold earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Tampa in 1951 majoring in physical education. He did further study at University of Florida where he earned his Master’s of Education degree. Harold’s professional mission was the education of the youth of Hillsborough County. He started his storied career as a junior high school gym teacher and advanced as Dean of Boys at Chamberlain High School, Assistant Principal of East Bay and Hillsborough High Schools, and Principal at Coleman Junior High. He ultimately retired in 1987 as Director of Administration of the Hillsborough County School System where he was universally respected as an innovative administrator. Throughout his career he was recognized for his excellence in education and shaping the lives of young people in the Hillsborough County area. He served as secretary of the Florida Industrial Arts Association (1960-1963) and was awarded the Ernest Hemingway “Grace Under Pressure” award from Hillsborough High School 1975-1976. He earned certificates of appreciation from Future Business Leaders of America (1974) Florida Association of Distributive Education Club.

Harold was also dedicated to the community both physically and spiritually. In his lifetime, he donated over five gallons of precious Type O blood and was quite proud of his “Gallon Club” tag that he carried on his keychain. Throughout his life he was a dedicated Christian, growing up in the First Evangelical United Brethren Church which later became Otterbein United Methodist Church. He later became an active member of Forest Hills Presbyterian Church, driving the church van, named “Outstanding Older Adult” in 2010, and served as a Deacon 2012-2013.

As proud as he was of his career accomplishments, he was even more proud of his family. He spent every opportunity to spend time with his wife and three children, traveling every summer throughout the United States and Canada. His favorite place was the Smokey Mountains and upon retirement, bought a summer home in Brevard, North Carolina. He nurtured his children’s talents, encouraging without being overbearing.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Marguerite; his daughters Sylvia and Emily; and son David. His family has continued to grow with son-in-law Bob Zahner, daughter-in-law Beth, grandchildren Devin and Dan Weesner, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

Private burial services will be held at the Lake Carroll Cemetery, followed by a public Celebration of Life

Saturday, April 23, 2002 at 2:30 p.m. at Forest Hills Presbyterian Church, 709 W. Linebaugh Ave., Tampa, FL 33612. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his memory to Forest Hills Presbyterian Church.