Jerry Allen Harter

Jerry Allen Harter, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away

peacefully on April 10, 2023, at St. Luke's Heart Institute in Kansas City, MO.

Born on January 22, 1943, in Bern, Kansas, Jerry is survived by his wife Barbara of 60 years, daughter, Deborah

Reding (Kevin Reding) of Leoti, KS., granddaughter Megan Robertson (Clay Robertson),

great-granddaughter Lillian Robertson of Manhattan, KS. Grandson, Logan Reding of

Manhattan, KS, two sisters, and two brothers. Jerry is preceded in death by his son, Mark

Harter, grandson Lane Reding, and twin brother Jim Harter along with 1 brother and 1 sister.

Jerry was known for his kindness, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to his family and

community.

After graduating from high school, Jerry pursued a degree in Accounting at Emporia State

University. He went on to have a successful career as an accountant at Good Year, where he

made lasting friendships and gained the respect of his colleagues. In addition to his work as an

accountant, Jerry also enjoyed substitute teaching and driving a school bus for Royal Valley

High School, which allowed him to be a positive influence on many young lives.

Jerry's commitment to his community was further demonstrated by his 40 years of service on

the Fire Board. He was passionate about ensuring the safety and well-being of his neighbors

and took great pride in his role on the board.

A true sports enthusiast, Jerry was an avid fan of both college and professional sports. He was

loyal to his local teams and rarely missed a game. In his spare time, he could often be found

working in his yard or tending to his garden, where he took great pleasure in growing beautiful

flowers and fresh vegetables.

Above all, Jerry cherished the time he spent with his family. He was a devoted husband to his

wife, Barbara Harter, with whom he shared many happy years of marriage. Together, they raised

their daughter and son Mark Harter and Deborah Reding, who married Kevin Reding and

blessed Jerry with two wonderful grandchildren, Megan Robertson, and Logan Reding. Jerry

was overjoyed when he became a great-grandfather to Lillian Robertson, the daughter of

Megan and her husband, Clay Robertson.

Jerry's love for his family was evident in everything he did, from attending his children's activities

throughout their whole life, to his grandchildren's school events and performances. He was

always there to offer support, encouragement, and a listening ear, and his presence will be

greatly missed by all who knew him.

In his later years, Jerry faced several health challenges with grace and determination. His

strength and resilience inspired those around him, and he continued to live life to the fullest

despite any obstacles that came his way. Ultimately, it was a stroke that claimed Jerry's life, but

his spirit and legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched.

A celebration of Jerry's life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to

honor his memory and share stories of his kindness, love, and unwavering dedication to those

he held dear. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Hoyt Fire

Department and sent to Denison State Bank in Jerry's name, as a testament to his lifelong

commitment to the safety and well-being of his community.

Jerry Allen Harter will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather,

great-grandfather, brother, and friend. His kindness, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to

his family and community will be cherished by all who knew him. May he rest in peace, knowing

that his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.