John Harnacker

John Harnacker, passed away, Saturday, August 23, 2025.

Beloved husband of Linda Harnacker (nee Wilkerson).  Loving father of Colleen Phillips-Caton (Robert) and Kenneth Phillips (Dana).  Proud grandfather of Carissa Caton-Wagner (Kyle), Ashley Caton-Nungester (Brett), Kade Phillips and Ryn Phillips. Dear Great grandfather of Jace, Kit and Calvin.  Dearest brother of the late Frank Harnacker.  Son of the late Jacob and Barbara Harnacker (nee Kutschal).  Dear uncle, great uncle, brother-in-law and friend to many.

John was born in Pardan, Yugoslavia in 1929. His father was killed while serving in the military, leaving him, his brother and mother to fend for themselves. Their small family eventually moved to Romania, then to Hungary, and later settled in Austria.  They remained in Austria for four years and it is there that John learned the trade of brick laying. He and his family came to the United States by way of boat and landed in New Orleans.  They eventually made their way to St. Louis in 1952.  

John later met and married the love of his life, Linda and they had over 44 happy years together.  John became an instant father to Linda's children and considered them his own. John's highest priority in life was his family and he was deeply devoted to their happiness and well-being. 

Because of John's early German influence, he was involved in the St. Louis German Cultural Society for many years.  His masonry skills were used to help build the German Society's hall located on Jefferson Avenue.  John was a member of the Brick Layer's Union Local #1 for over 50 years.  He owned and operated Mercury Masonry for over 30 years.

John found much enjoyment in life listening to polka music and dancing.  He also loved throwing a fishing line in the lake, sitting in his chair drinking wine, and talking to everyone that passed by.  John will forever be remembered for his love of family, his unwavering kindness, and his outgoing and magnetic personality. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Services:  The family will receive friends for a visitation at the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway, Ballwin, MO 63011, on Friday, August 29, 2025 from 10:30 a.m. until the time of the funeral at 11:30 a.m. The entombment will follow in Bellerive Gardens Mausoleum, Creve Coeur, MO. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John's memory to Pony Bird. Please share memories and condolences with the family in the online guestbook at Schrader.com.