R.A. Harlan

R. A. HARLAN R. A., 71, passed away on May 27, 2005 in Seattle, Washington after a hard fought battle with a rare brain disorder. He was born in Iowa City, Iowa on October 28, 1933 to Ruby and Retta Harlan. R. A. followed his high school sweetheart to the Northwest where they were married and raised their four children. R. A. had great passion for many things, number one his devoted wife of 52 years he called "Fernie". He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He was athletic well into his sixties and loved playing basketball, softball and going to the batting cages. He was an ardent student of scripture and enjoyed teaching Sunday School. He loved a good bowl of chocolate ice cream and especially a Mr. Goodbar right from the freezer. When his grandchildren were old enough to play sports, he was there in the stands cheering for them. His work led him in many diverse directions. He was an executive with American Broadcasting Company, Record Division, and later he was key to the early success of CRISTA Ministries. R. A. also became a developer and was a partner in Threefold Development. His outgoing and cheerful presence will be truly missed by his family and many friends. R. A. is survived by his wife Fern; his four children, daughter Cindy Springer and husband Larry of Kirkland, WA, grandsons Adam and Benjamin; son Rod Harlan and wife Jonna of Lynnwood, WA, granddaughter Tiffany and grandson Rod, Jr.; daughter Autumn Lingle and husband Mark of Seattle, granddaughter Sivona and grandson Troy; and son Scott Harlan and wife Julie of Monroe, WA; and his brother Ted Harlan of Lake Soucier, Mississippi. A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 8, 2005 at Bethany Community Church, 8023 Greenlake Dr. N., Seattle. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the National Organization of Rare Disorders, 55 Kenosia Ave., P.O. Box 1968, Danbury, Connecticut 06813-1968. Arrangements Beck's Funeral Home, Edmonds, (425) 771-1234.