Harry Kirchner

STERLING- Harry F. Kirchner, 89, of Sterling died Saturday, September 15, 2018 at Morningside of Sterling surrounded by his family. Harry was born May 20, 1929 in Dugger, Ind, the son of Harry and Myrtle (Widdows) Kirchner. He married Betty Jean Palmer on November 10, 1951 in Oblong, IL. Survivors include his wife, two daughters, Deborah (Lyle) Stern of Sterling and Cynthia (Dean) Book of Sterling; one sister, Joyce Brimley of Finley, OH; four grandsons, Greg (Lisa) Stern of Madison, WI, Michael (Mary) Stern of Sterling, Dustin (Laura) Book of Lombard, IL and Seth (Erin) Book of Dixon, IL; 9 great grandchildren, Abigail, Andrew, and April Stern, Haedyn and Vivian Stern, Ella and Evelyn Book, Zachary and Olivia Book; as well as 9 nieces and 11 nephews. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Paul Kirchner, Jack Kirchner, and Daniel Kirchner; two sisters, Alice Carpenter and Eleanor Harris; two nephews and one niece. After graduating from High School in Sullivan, Ind, Harry attended Eastern IL University earning both a BS and MS degree in Education. He began his teaching career at Mendota High School in 1956 before moving to Sterling in 1958. For the next 33 years, Harry instructed students at Sterling Township High School in Speech/English as well as an occasional driver education and basic industrial art class. He truly enjoyed coaching the debate and speech teams. Upon his retirement, Harry sold cars at Bun Austin Chevy dealership. In 1951, he was drafted into the Army serving during the Korean War. Harry then joined the Army Reserves and rose in the ranks to Bird Colonel. In 1991 during Desert Storm, he was again called to service to assist returning servicemen. Harry was a lifetime member of the First Baptist Church of Sterling. He held positions on numerous boards and served as Vice Moderator for 43 years. Harry actively participated in many community organizations including Kiwanis, American Legion Post 296, Whiteside County Board, Whiteside Retired Teacher Association, PADs, Council House and United Way. Harry was enthusiastic about fishing, wood working, and tennis. He enjoyed poetry and played a little harmonica. He was always ready for a good game of pool or a card game with his buddies. Harry was a most caring and devoted family man. His grandsons and great grandchildren brought him great joy. Visitation is scheduled Thursday, September 20, 2018 from 5:00 to 7:00 at Schilling Funeral Home in Sterling. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 on Friday, September 21, 2018 at First Baptist Church of Sterling with Reverend Jack Smith officiating. Burial will be at Oak Knoll Memorial Park, Sterling. A memorial has been established. Condolences may be sent to www.schillingfuneralhome.com