Harlow Bales

Harlow Bales, 80, Bismarck, passed away February 26, 2017, at CHI St. Alexius surrounded by his family. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, March 3, 2017, at Bismarck Community Church, 1617 Michigan Ave, Bismarck, with Revs. Don Dekok and Jared Lee officiating. Visitation will be Thursday, March 2, from 5-7 p.m. at Bismarck Community Church, where a prayer service will begin at 7:00 pm. Burial will be held at Fairview Cemetery, Bismarck. Harlow was born October 16, 1936, in Linton, ND, and graduated from Linton High School in 1955. He attended Ellendale College, where he studied education and earned a Standard Teaching Certificate. Harlow entered military service with the United States Army in 1958 and was stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington. Harlow worked for North Dakota State Radio, Dakota Flooring, performed pastoral care and managed Fairview Cemetery until his passing. Harlow married Lois Ford September 27, 1958. Harlow and Lois had four children, Brad, John, Lynette, and Jennifer. Harlow married Diana Readel on May 6, 2000, bringing to the relationship children, Randy, Renee, and Rebecca. Harlow was a very kind and generous man, and his subtle kindness touched everyone around him. He brought smiles everywhere he went, and was someone to lean on. He was a strong person that everyone looked up to. He touched so many throughout his life. He was gracious and kind to all he encountered. His faith inspired others to hold tightly to their own. Harlow is survived by his loving wife of 16 years, Diana: his children, Brad (Sally) Bales of Bismarck, ND, John Bales of Waco, TX, Lynette (Rick) Coker of Hartford, SD, Jennifer (Brian) Hammer of Rogers, MN; foster daughter, Dawn Heck of Bismarck; Diana’s children, Randy (Bridgette) Readel, Hunter, ND, Renee (Jay) Donald, Elk River, MN, and Rebecca (Bob) LaFavor, Bismarck; 16 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and his brother, Marrill (Sandy) Bales. Harlow was preceded in death by his father, Harold Bales; and mother, Margaret Bales. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to KNDR, PO Box 516, Mandan, ND 58554, Fairview Cemetery, PO Box 7151, Bismarck, ND 58507, or Children’s Hope Chest JEMO Fund, c/o Bismarck Community Church, 1617 Michigan Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58504. The funeral service for Harlow will be live streamed at www.bismarckcc.org/watch