Don Harnish

Don L. Harnish, age 79, of Deary, Idaho, passed away suddenly in his home on December 31, 2025. Born on October 29, 1946, in Sterling, Colorado, he was the son of Gloyd and Virginia Harnish.

Don graduated from Bellevue Senior High School in Bellevue, Nebraska in 1965. He then enlisted in the United States Navy where he proudly served as Boilerman Operater on the USS Hancock in the Vietnam War. He served 4 years from 1966-1970 with dedication and honor to his country.

On June 19th, 1971 Don married Laurie at St Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Omaha, Nebraska. They shared a loving marriage for 54 and half years. He started his career as a Boiler Operator at Kramer Power Station in Bellevue Nebraska for 16 years, worked briefly at OPPD Power Station in Omaha, Nebraska, then worked at Washington State University Power Plant in Pullman, Washington until he retired in 2006 at the age of 59 and a half years old.

First and foremost, Don’s time spent with family meant the world to him. He was an avid fisherman and bowhunter. Being out in nature, camping, boating and four-wheeling up in the mountains was a true joy in his life. He was a natural handyman and could make anything out of nothing. He was a volunteer fireman & rescue in Bellevue, Nebraska and member of the Rod and Gun Club. He was a member of NRA and many archery clubs including North Idaho Traditional Bowhunters. He was a people person, could talk to anyone, make a stranger on the street a friend, and talk to his friends for hours. He loved to reminisce about the old days, enjoying old country music and stories.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gloyd and Virginia Harnish and his brothers Rodney Harnish and Fred Harnish. Don is survived by is wife, Laurie Harnish; his daughter Jennine Pike; grandchildren Kaylee Pike and Jericho Pike; his grandchildrens’ father Tom Pike; and his sister and Janet Casement (Doug).

There will be a celebration of Don’s life in Deary, Idaho on a future date to be determined.

God Speed Husband, Dad and Grampa! We’ll love you forever and will keep you in our hearts until we meet again.