Jd Harsin

J.D. Harsin 86, of Topeka, KS died Tuesday, March 11, 2008 at Midland Hospice House in Topeka.
Mr. Harsin was born on May 17, 1921 at the family farm in Walnut Valley, IA, the son of Gilbert and Irene Harsin. He graduated from Knoxville High School in Knoxville, IA in 1939.
In WWII he served on the USS Brownson as a fire controlman 2nd class. After finishing his term of service in the US Navy, he attended Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. He had a long and prosperous career in the insurance industry, working as a salesman for Security Benefit and John Hancock life insurance companies, before becoming an agent for Prudential Life Insurance Company. In 1968, he was inducted into the Chartered Life Underwriters Association and into the Million Dollar Roundtable in 1972.
After 35 years with Prudential, J.D. retired in August 1984. He was a member of the Arab Shrine, Scottish Rite, Masonic Lodge 225, VFW Post #1650, DAV, and American Legion Post #1. He sang in many local choruses and choirs and enjoyed performing and listening to music throughout his life. He was also a former deacon and member of the First Presbyterian Church of Topeka, KS.
He is survived by his wife Shirley Harsin, Topeka; brother Willis Harsin of Knoxville, IA; and 3 children: Dr, Jayson P. Harsin and Meagan Zimbeck, Paris, France; Stephanie Harsin-Ade and David Ade, Topeka; and Jared and Danelle Harsin, Topeka.
He left the world with a song in his heart and offered the advice, "Enjoy yourself—its later than you think."
Mr. Harsin will lie in state after 12:00 noon Friday at the Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel where the family will greet friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m., Saturday, March 15, 2008 at the funeral home. Graveside services will follow at 3:00 p.m. Saturday at the Vinland Cemetery Southeast of Lawrence.
Memorial contributions may be given to Midland Hospice Care or to the USS Brownson Memorial and sent in care of the funeral home.