Walter J. Harms

Walter J. Harms, 85 of Rockford, died Friday, January 18, 2008 at St. Anne Center. Born March 12, 1922 in Lyons, WI the son of Walter C. and Mary (Madden) Harms. Graduated from Richmond-Burton High School in 1939. Married his loving wife Arlene Gustafson on November 8, 1941. Joined the United States Marine Corps as an aerial navigator serving in the South Pacific. Retired from Camcar Screw and Manufacturing Company in 1982 after 34 years as group Vice President. He was internationally known for leading the development of specialized cold impact extrusions of metal in the fastener industry. After retiring he worked as a consultant in the metal working industry and the field of quality control. Walter enjoyed horse racing, golf, baseball and playing bridge. He will be remembered by his family for his genuine caring and concerns of day to day happenings of their lives and his unconditional love. Survivors include his wife of 66 years Arlene; daughters, Marlena Holzinger and Vicki (Richard) Ppool both of Rockford; grandchildren, Kari Holzinger, Ahna (Jimmy Young) Holzinger and Bria Holzinger and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Loris Blackman and brother, Lloyd Harms. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the nurses at Swedish American Heart Hospital and the nursing staff at St. Annes. Funeral service Tuesday, January 22, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Mulford Chapel 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Visitation will be held from 9- 10:45. Private interment in Scandinavian Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the American Heart Association.