Evans Funeral Home
"Compassionate Funeral Service"
Carrington and New Rockford, North Dakota
701.652.3003 or 701.947.2911
Secondary Number ~ 701.650.9937
Arlys Harmon
Arlys Harmon, age 93, died Monday, March 9, 2020 surrounded by her family at Golden Acres Manor, Carrington.
Arlys Inger Skadberg was born on March 21, 1926 in Carrington, ND to John and Mamie Skadberg. She graduated from Carrington High School and attended Concordia College for two years. She then taught math at Annamose High School, where despite her being almost as young as her students, inspired two to become math majors!
On December 27, 1946 she married Ralph Harmon, with the reception being held at the Harmon farmhouse. Arlys and Ralph then returned to NDSU where their first son Michael was born in October, 1947. Arlys graduated from NDSU in June 1948 with a degree in home economics, effectively becoming a wife, mother, college graduate and teacher all by the age of 21!
The next few years were spent in Austin, MN and Mitchell, SD where Ralph was employed with the Hormel organization. Ralph and Arlys later returned to the family farm north of Carrington where they raised their children, hosted many holiday parties with their extended family and continued to grow the family farm operations.
Arlys was a mother, grandmother, great grandmother, home maker, active community member and avid bridge player. She also loved gardening, sewing, painting and traveling. She and Ralph traveled the world together and especially enjoyed spending time in Hawaii. Arlys was talented at so many things and made you feel like every day was an adventure. Every place she lived became a testament to her love of beauty and comfort.
Arlys is survived by her children Michael Harmon, Rapid City, SD, Jane Harmon, Los Angeles, CA, Kitty Harmon, Helena, MT, Joan Harmon(Jim Calder), New York City, Jim (Maria) Harmon, Carrington, Tom (Amii) Harmon, Eaton, CO, and Anne (Andy) Harmon Gale, Nyack, NY; sisters, Judy (Ron) Semmens, Mayville, ND, Sonja Shannon, Rapid City, SD; sisters-in law Jeanette Skadberg, Gold Canyon, AZ and Patti Skadberg, Carrington, brother-in-law Arlo Neumiller Fargo, ND, 18 grandchildren , 15 great grandchildren and a large extended family of cousins, nieces and nephews.
Arlys was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Ralph her son Paul, five brothers, Stanley, Jerry, Marvin, Kermit, and Jim, sisters-in-laws, Elsie, Doris, Marvel and brother-in-law Robert Shannon.
Memorials can be given to the Carrington Cemetery Association, PO Box 355, Carrington, ND 58421.
Visitation will be Friday, 9:00AM-7:00PM with a Rosary Service at 6:45PM followed by a Vigil Service at 7:00PM all at Evans Funeral Home, Carrington.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, March 14, 2020 at 10:00AM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Carrington.
Burial will be at the Carrington Cemetery.
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To all the children of Arlys,
We are saddened to hear of Arlys’ death. And the memories flow.. of a delightful woman who welcomed many visitors to their farm home with open arms and a cheery greeting. Our vacations at the same resort many years ago cemented a relationship between our families that lasted for many cherished years.
We send our prayers and condolences to all of you, children, spouses and grandchildren.
On Saturday, as you celebrate Arlys’ life, we will pause and pay tribute to a dear friend with love and respect.
Jane and family, This is Nancy Johnson Jordheim. I have wonderful memories of your mother and father (as well as all of you) at your farm, at the Olson’s, and at Uncle Frank and Alice Johnson’s during the time we lived in Carrington. As I recall, the parents would sit around and quietly visit or prepare foods while the kids enjoyed the outdoors and being free to run. Your mother particularly was so gentle in thought and word. There was never a time that we came or left without a quick hug. The genuine love that was always in your home and demonstrated between your folks still brings warmth to my soul. My mother, Louise Johnson, is also now in her 90s and in a long term care facility. Dad, Roy, passed ten years ago.
This Carrington crew was a great model of a wonderful generation. Arlys joins so many of them now in heaven. You will be celebrating as the Olsons celebrate Barbara. Their passing reminds me of a Native American proverb: “Death is not the extinguishing of the light, but rather putting out the lamp for the dawn has come.” Know Mom and i join you in celebrating gentle and fond memories.
Dear Harmon and Skadberg families. I have a fond memory of Mamie and think that Arlys shared her generosity and ability to make all feel welcomed. Each of you is in prayers as you grieve yet celebrate her life. Sending my condolences, Jerilyn
Your Mom was a very special gal. I have great memories of spending time at your farm when I was young and always enjoyed visiting with your Mom in later years when I would visit Carrington. She was a great lady and will be missed. My condolences to all the Harmon kids.
Jim and family, so sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. We cherish memories of family fun times and wish you all peace.
Aryls brought many smiles to everyone at GAM. She was a dear person and I have many memories of her. Thoughts and prayers for her family and friends. May her memory bring comfort and peace.
So many fond memories of the times I spent with Kitty, Arlys was like a second mom. Her beauty and spirit will live on through her family.🙏
Sorry for your loss of your mom lots of memories growing up there and helping her out