Charles Robert Harlan

Charles Robert Harlan, 68, of Indianapolis, departed this life Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 2022. He was born June 16, 1954, in Greenfield, Indiana to the late George Stephen and Virginia M. (Zimmerman) Harlan. He is a graduate of Eastern Hancock High School. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business from Indiana State University in 1976. Throughout his career, he worked in business management and finance for various entities, including but not limited to, the Finance Center Credit Union and Joe’s Auto Sales.

Charles was a kind and gentle soul who always put the needs of others first. He was a devoted member of St Paul’s Episcopal Church, as well as a volunteer. Prior to his heart transplant, he spent countless hours supporting other heart patients at St. Vincent, including in their Cardiac Rehab Unit and as a LVAD mentor. Charles had an infectious laugh that could fill an entire room and never missed a chance to tell a good joke or story.

Charles was an accomplished gardener and a loyal fan and original season ticket holder to our Indianapolis Colts. He rarely passed on an opportunity to play a game of euchre, enjoy a good book, or debate a hot political issue. He loved his 60’s music and MSNBC. He was happiest, though, making memories with his beloved family and spoiling his grandchildren.

He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Judith S. Harlan; devoted children, Jessica (Carey) Harlan-York and Trevor Stephen Harlan; grateful grandchildren, Beatrice and Cooper York; siblings, Timothy (Kathleen) Harlan and Jennifer (Joseph) Swindell; his loyal Golden Retriever, Simon; as well as a host of extended family members, dear friends and fellow volunteers in Indianapolis.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Virginia and Stephen Harlan, an infant brother, Michael Harlan, two special aunts, Ethel and Victoria Harlan, and his in-laws Jack and Rita Swank.

Visitation for Charles will begin at 12:00 pm on Saturday, December 10th and conclude at the time of the memorial service at 1:00 pm at Leppert Mortuary –Nora Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are strongly suggested in his name to the following organizations: Ascension St. Vincent Foundation, 250 West 96th Street, Suite 470, Indianapolis, Indiana, contributions made in memory of Charles to the Foundation will be used to support cardiac rehabilitation; online to the Indiana Donor Network, or online to Indy Humane.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.leppertmortuary.com for the Harlan family.