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BORN
1936
DIED
2023
FUNERAL HOME
405 Center St
Dowagiac, Michigan
Harold First Obituary
Harold L. First, 86, a lifelong resident of Dowagiac passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023, at Forest Glen Assisted Living in Dowagiac.
He was born on Jan. 13, 1936, in Dowagiac, the son of Herbert and Elsie (Disterheft) First.
On Nov. 15, 1958, Harold was united in marriage to Karen (Hercik) First. In 1960, they started the beginning of a lifetime together farming. Harold truly enjoyed his time on the farm. He loved going to farmers markets. Harold valued getting to talk to all the customers, which became friends, and getting to sell his fresh produce. He had great pride in the farm and the fact that his son, granddaughters and even his six great-grandsons, cherished their time there.
Surviving are his wife of 64 years, Karen First; son, Jon First; two granddaughters: Alicia (Brian) Stout and Amelia (Daren) Distefano; six great-grandchildren: Ethan, Elijah and Parker Stout and Leonardo, David and Lorenzo Distefano; sister, Donna Filbrandt; brother, Dale (Mary) First; and several nieces and nephews.
Preceding him in death were his parents; and sister, Beverly Wyhowski.
Honoring Harold's wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation. A celebration of Harold's life will be held at the farm at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be directed to CorsoCare Hospice. Arrangements have been entrusted to Clark Chapel, 405 Center St., Dowagiac, Mich. Those wishing to share a memory of Harold online may do so at www.clarkch.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Harold First
2 Entries
Bob Schillin
January 23, 2023
As I look back over 50+ years of friendship with Harold, I can recall many talks, discussions and sometimes disagreements. One thing I will always remember is Harold, after a long weekend at the Chicago market, sleeping in his spray tractor at the end of a row near one of his orchards. Sometimes I'd honk and wake him so he could finish, other times I'd drive by and let him sleep. Rest in peace old friend, you have reached the end of the last row.
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Starks Family Funeral Homes & Cremation Services - Clark Chapel - Dowagiac405 Center St, Dowagiac, MI 49047
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