Harry W. Rakestraw, Jr., age 57 of Elwood, passed away on Friday, April 25, 2025 at Ascension-St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis after a several health challenges. He was born on July 19, 1967 in Tipton, the beloved son of Harry W. and Carol J. (Barnes) Rakestraw, Sr. Harry was a 1984 graduate of Hamilton Heights High School before serving his country in the U.S. Army from 1987 to 1989. He was stationed in Germany during his military service and worked as a mechanic. He was a proud veteran who truly loved his country. Harry worked for himself as a salvage and scrap metal processor for many years. He also formerly worked at Park 100 Foods in Tipton and Shepard Tool Co. in Elwood. Harry met his soulmate, Dawn Beeman of Elwood over 30 years ago, and they have been inseparable ever since.
Harry was a person who never knew a stranger, and he would help anyone, anywhere if they were in need. In his free time, he enjoyed fishing, camping, and watching car racing of all kinds. Visits to Anderson Speedway were memorable. Harry also enjoyed listening to classic rock music and hunting mushrooms. More than anything, he loved spending time with all his family. He will be remembered as a loving son, partner, father, step-father, and friend to all.
Harry’s family includes his father, Harry Rakestraw, Sr. of Central Lake, Michigan; companion of over 30 years, Dawn Beeman of Elwood; daughter, Samantha Parrish of Sheridan; 2 step-children, Candice (Dylan) Coston of Elwood and John Davis, Jr. (Katlyn Hylemon) of Elwood; 2 siblings, Shawn Rakestraw of Kokomo and Michelle Weesner of Mancelona, Michigan; 8 grandchildren, Darrien, Cooper, Camryn, Presley, Maverick, Paisley, Ava, and Waylon; niece, Savannah; and many extended family members in Dawn’s family. Harry was preceded in death by his mother, Carol J. Rakestraw in 2017 and a sister, Monica Rakestraw.
A funeral service celebrating Harry’s life will be held on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood with Pastor Dylan Coston of Redemption Church officiating. Burial will follow in Union Cemetery in Hamilton County. Military honors will be conducted by the U.S. Army and Elwood V.F.W. honor guard at the cemetery. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 12 to 2 pm prior to the funeral on Thursday at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home. Memorial contributions are suggested to the funeral home to offset funeral expenses. Online condolences and memories may be shared at copherfeslermay.com.
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