A funeral service for Paul H. Harkness, 89 of Heath will be 2:00 p.m. Sunday, February 7, 2010 at the Heath United Methodist Church with Rev. Richard Waddle and Rev. Jeff Belt officiating. Private burial will be in Poplar Forks Cemetery, Gratiot.

Mr. Harkness passed away Thursday evening, February 4, 2010 surrounded by his loving family. He was born June 25, 1920 in Gratiot to Pearl and Celesta (Hazlett) Harkness. He was a graduate of Hopewell School and proudly served his country as a Seabee in the U. S. Navy during World War II. He was a member of the American Legion, Heath Lodge #771 F.&A.M., and the Heath United Methodist Church. Paul was a handy man who enjoyed home projects.

Survivors include his wife of over 40 years, Elinor E. (Osborne) Harkness; daughters, Arlene K. (Kerry) Brown of Springboro, Diane S. (Dan) DeLawder of Newark, and Trena M. (Mike) Besch of White Lake, Michigan; grandchildren, Kyle (Shannon) Brown of Miamisburg, and Erin Brown, of Springboro, Sara (Tom) Joyner of Greenfield, Indiana, Matt DeLawder of Athens, Ryan Besch and Nicole Besch, both of White Lake, Michigan; two great granddaughters, Josie and Tessa Joyner.

In addition to his parents, Paul was preceded in death by his first wife, Elnora R. (Little) Harkness in 1965; four sisters Vernice, Ada Louise, Catherine and Wilda; and three brothers, Norval, Rolland, and Edgar.

Friends and family may call from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. Saturday, February 6, 2010 at the Vensil-Orr & Chute Funeral Home, 1850 W. Main Street, Newark; and one hour prior to the funeral service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Central Ohio, P.O. Box 430, Newark, Ohio 43058-0430; or the Heath United Methodist Church, 1149 Hebron Road, Heath, Ohio 43056.