John W. Harter

In Loving Memory
John W. Harter
October 3, 1945 – March 4, 2025
CARTERSVILLE, GA - John William Harter, 79, of Cartersville Georgia, passed away in the comfort of his home on March 4, 2025. He was fortunate to have the full time loving, patient, (and sometimes sarcastic) care of his son Shane in his final months.
John was born October 3, 1945 in Syracuse, New York to Dr. William and Muriel Harter. He grew up in Mexico, New York enjoying all things about small town life and popularity. As a boy, he was a cub and boy scout, ran a paper route, and always enjoyed dancing. Known as Doc to many, he played multiple school sports, shot archery, enjoyed the thrill and beauty of fast cars, the attention of pretty girls, and harmless trouble making. He cherished his youth and maintained many friendships from his early years.
After completing his degree and teaching for a short time, John found his passion in the trade of welding. He began his career as a union welder, which brought him to Atlanta in the 1980s. He opened and ran Absolutely Iron, creating beautiful pieces of art in the form of handrails, staircases, and gates for 30 years. Winning the Top Job award from NOMMA in 1990 for one of his beautiful staircases was a highlight of his career.
During his time living in Woodstock, he was a member of Transfiguration Catholic Church. He was well known there for the iron and wood cross that still hangs over the alter. He also enjoyed the men's club and dancing the night away at their functions.
John was a collector of many things, seeing potential in what most cast off as trash. He was proud of his 72 Cutlass Convertible and his cherry red 1957 Chevy pickup. He was innately social, seeking friendship, conversation, and celebration in every circumstance. He was always willing to help someone down on their luck in any way he could. He was an avid reader, sports fan, and chaser of sunshine. He was always willing to hold a baby, loving the joy of little children and never outgrew his appreciation of a pretty woman.
John is survived by his faithful wife of 42 years, Debby, his sons Michael and Shane, and his daughter Sara and son in law Thomas. His grandchildren Jerrett, Anthony, Olivia and Sophie knew him as Papa John or Papa. John is also survived by his 5 siblings, Peggy, Betsy, Biff, Judi, and Jodi and the what the family knows as "the outlaws;" Timmy, Scott, Cowen, and Sean, as well as his niece Cate and his nephews Marty and James. Of all his accomplishments in life, John was most proud of his family.
A Memorial Service in Remembrance of John will be at a time to be announced. Arrangements are in care of Harter Funeral Home, Inc. Mexico, NY.
In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to Amedisys Hospice, 11 Charlie Harper Dr., Suite 170, Cartersville, Ga. 30120.
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