Harry Richard Harig

Harry R. Harig, age 80, of Escanaba, passed away peacefully early Monday morning, January 19, 2026, at Christian Park Village. In the hours leading up to his passing, the nurses and CNAs who affectionately knew him as "Mr. Harry" and "Ol' Blue Eyes" gathered by his side to pay their respects and console his family as he prepared to reunite with those who went before him.

Harry was born on December 3, 1945, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the son of Vincent G. Harig and Myrtle A. (Dewey) Smith. A lifelong hard worker, Harry left school early to dedicate himself to the family farm, beginning a lifetime defined by skilled labor and a steady hand.

On June 18, 1966, Harry married Gloria Gaye Schumacher in Detroit. Together they raised four children-Jennifer, Amanda, Dawn, and Richard-making their homes throughout West Michigan. Harry was a cornerstone of his children's musical success, never missing a concert or competition; he was truly their proudest supporter.

A true jack-of-all-trades, Harry's career reflected his diverse talents and grit. He served as a custodian for Kentwood Public Schools, a mechanic for Clark's Auto Sales, and a certified welder. His skilled hands also contributed to the preservation of architectural history as a painter for the Frank Lloyd Wright homes in Grand Rapids' Heritage Hill District. Whether he was farming in Howard City or restoring his prized 1963 Ford Falcon, Harry approached every task with patience and pride.

On April 21, 2001, Harry married Elaine Laurel Nash, gaining a daughter, Wendee, whom he loved and regarded as his own. Over the course of their marriage, they shared adventures across Arizona, Missouri, and Michigan, eventually settling in Delta County to escape the fast pace of city life in the lower peninsula. Even as they faced the challenges of declining health and dementia, Harry and Elaine's devotion remained unshakable; they were inseparable to the end, always holding hands and never missing a goodnight kiss. When Elaine passed away in 2022, Harry was right by her side at Christian Park Village.

Harry was known for his gentle spirit, mischievous pranks, and an infectious laughter that brightened any room. He found peace in woodworking-specifically building intricate wooden sailing ship replicas-and gardening. A lover of music, he was often found playing the guitar or harmonica, whistling, or singing along to Johnny Cash.

He is survived by his children and their families: Wendee Scott (daughters Jaeden and Laurel); Dawn (Nick) Dehen (children Lee, Alden, and Jessica); Jennifer (Ryan) Miller (children Tishana, Ford, and Haven); Amanda (John) Avery (children David, Glorianna, and Leviticus); and Richard (Jen) Harig (sons Jordan, Dominic, Breydan, and Kolton). He is also survived by his siblings: Pearl Fowler, Tami Nichols, and Rita Persinger.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandson, Nicholas John Sturdavant; his siblings, Vincent Jr., Eugene, and Mary Jane; his wife, Elaine; and his former wife, Gloria.

In keeping with Harry's wishes, no services will be held. Those wishing to offer an expression of sympathy are asked to consider assisting the family with cremation expenses via the Tribute Fund at www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net.

The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting the family.