Joshua David Harding

Joshua David Harding, age 22, died on March 13, 2018 at St. John Macomb-Oakland Hospital in Warren, Michigan. He was born February 2, 1996 in Royal Oak, Michigan, the son of Scott Harding and Mary Lou Donnellon. "He was born"…words that describe a life changing event for loving parents such as Scott and Mary Lou, an event that now seems like it was a moment ago. And just where does a scribe even begin to fashion an obituary for a precious soul as young as Joshua? But as Yoda, the Jedi Master, would opine,…a tribute, pay we must! In sharing this story of Josh, a worthy mention would include his hard work ethics and how he always poured himself into his work or the job at hand. Possessing a friendly and gregarious spirit, being a part of "Team Josh" never ceased to make the work day brighter and the job go more smoothly. Currently, Josh was employed as a tow truck driver and operator with Service Towing of Warren. For a person stranded and in need of some professional and caring service, they couldn't have asked for a better guy than Josh to get the job done. He not only had the right stuff to rescue those in need, but you could always count on his outgoing personality and "service with a smile." Josh's prior employment included the work he extended while part of the business families at Rinke and Hamilton Chevrolet. Having immense esteem for the automobile, both opportunities afforded Josh the perfect environment to soak in the automotive aura that surrounded him each day. Like many guys, he loved cars and was all about keeping up with technology,…yet he was also drawn to the old classics as well. And for this "Automobile Aficionado," what better place to live than in the backyard of his favorite annual event, the Woodward Dream Cruise? Being the car lover he was, taking in all the sights and sounds that accompanied the Motor Capital of the world's biggest gala provided Josh immeasurable joy and a host of wonderful memories created in the many visits he made to the Grand Strip down Woodward Avenue. Another tribute would definitely be to acknowledge Josh's immense love for the outdoors and the plethora of pleasures he often garnered in feeding his hunger and appetite. With Michigan being noted as one of the most bountiful states when it comes to enjoying the outdoors, Josh took advantage of many of them to include his love of hunting. Sort of like the rite of passage for many young Michigander's, strapping on that rifle and heading out to thin the herd was a sporting challenge that Josh warmed up to quite easily. Whether alone or with a group of fellow hunter's, it was like an unspoken fraternity of which Josh was proud to be a part. Of course, the sport of hunting demands the utmost in respect for the use of firearms, and Josh was quite adept and cognizant in the responsible use of his rifle. Yet it didn't end there as his training and knowledge with other guns was held in the highest regard as well,…and it probably didn't hurt to have a police officer for a Dad either. Josh wasn't really that particular, he simply loved shooting,…be it for game, or a target at the shooting range. The outdoors also provided Josh another of his favorite pastimes, fishing,…and in the Great Lakes State, he certainly wasn't at a loss of places to cast his line. Always in search of that "Big One,"…there was a simple appreciation and pleasure that enveloped a day on the water that Josh enjoyed so much. Then there was the riotous fun he enjoyed each time he hopped upon his 4-Wheeler. Nothing says a great time like an open throttle and a screamin' machine to bolster the machismo and make for a lot of laughs and awesome memories. And whether he was hunting, fishing or 4-Wheeling, it was all made that much sweeter with each visit Josh made to his favorite getaway to Rudyard, Michigan in the upper-peninsula. The further north you head, the more pristine it becomes,…and many of Josh's finest memories were those born up in Rudyard. So at his young age, Josh was truly a man's man. He had made that rite of passage and had proven himself in many ways. Yet for as much as he could wield his strength and bravado, Josh could also melt your heart with his loving-kindnesses, his caring and compassionate spirit, and his way of knowing just what you needed. Plainly spoken,…there's a reason why he was so affectionately known as the "Gentle Giant." Though Joshua leaves us far too soon, it is not without imparting the best parts of his heart and soul and how that will never be forgotten. He was just getting started, yet he touched so many lives in his brief journey this side of Heaven. Along the way, Joshua learned how to love and shared his freely and unselfishly,…a love that is sure to be felt anew with each reflection shared of how Joshua, uniquely & genuinely, impacted each life. He will forever be missed, and loved beyond measure. Rest in peace, Joshua. Josh was the beloved son of Scott (Tracey) Harding, and Mary Lou Donnellon. Loving brother of Alexandra Harding and James Barron. Dear grandson of Dorothy (the late Frank) Donnellon and Sandra (the late Marshall) Harding. He was also survived by many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Visitation for Josh will be held on Thursday, March 15th, 2018, 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 1/2 Mile Road) in Warren. His Funeral Service will be held on Friday, March 16th, 2018 at the Funeral Home at 11:00 a.m. Burial to take place in Roseland Cemetery in Berkley following the services at the funeral home. Please share memories at his guest book above.