Robert Merlin Harkness

Age 75, of Charles Street Anniston, AL passed away Wednesday, September 24, 2003 peacefully at his home with his beloved wife by his side. He was born October 9, 1927 in Springfield Township, PA, the son of the late W. Stanley and Mable (Swingle) Harkness. His sister, Edna Murray, brother, Gerald Harkness, also predeceased him. He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Betty Ann (Shuart) Harkness; daughters, Betty and Jerry Soules of Anniston, AL; Deborah and John Limoncelli of Horseheads, NY; sons, Garrett and Jennifer Harkness of Summerville, SC; Stanley and Kathy Harkness of Elmira, NY; Robert and Sue Harkness of Hemet, CA; Raymond and Patty Harkness of Wellsburg, NY; brother, Arthur Harkness of Troy, PA; step-mother-in-law, LaRue Shuart of Horton, AL; along with 19 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren, several brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews. Merlin retired from the A & P Plant after several years of dedicated service. For many years following his retirement, the Elmira Star Gazette employed him. Merlin loved gardening and carpentry. Family and friends are invited to call at the Olthof Funeral Home, Inc., 1050 Pennsylvania Ave., Elmira, on Saturday, September 27, 2003 from 1 to 3 and 6 to 8 PM. Funeral Serviceswill be held there on Sunday, September 28 at 1:00 PM. The Reverend Bryce Blair will officiate. Interment will take place at the convenience of the family in the Forest Lawn Memorial Park Elmira, NY. In lieu of flowers Memorial Donations may be directed to Southern Tier Hospice 11751 East Corning Road Corning, NY 14830 in his memory. A ?Candle of Remembrance? may be left for the family at www.olthof.com.