Veril F. Harden

Veril F. Harden, 87, of Hawley, MN, passed away at home on the farm on Tuesday, January 22, 2013. Veril was born December 8, 1925, in Monte Vista, CO, to John and Solveig Finstad Harden. His family later moved to Perley, MN, and then to Arthur, ND, where they farmed. In 1951, Veril moved to a farm in rural Hawley. He married Sharon Nelson on September 13, 1958. Together they made their home on the farm. Over the years they raised small grains, corn, soy beans, and cattle, but Veril was most passionate about sheep. They raised registered Suffolk and Hampshire Sheep and he showed them at the state, regional and national shows in which he won many championships. He was in the 1st group to show Suffolks at the MN State Fair. Veril valued the many friendships and connections he made through the shows over the years. He was also a founding member of the Lakeland Sheep Producers, a member of the Hawley School Board, a board member and participant of Greenbush Sheep Days, was on the Clay County Fair Board for 38 years, he was a buyer for North Central Wool, and was a Master Gardener.

Veril is survived by his wife, Sharon; children, Michael Alana of Hawley, Kris of Detroit Lakes, Becky Jeff Harden-Rodewald of Hawley; nine grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and sister, Signe Mickelson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Solveig; and sister, Marie Gilbert.

Funeral: Saturday, January 26, 2013, at 2:00 p.m., in Wright Funeral Home, Hawley, MN.
Visitation: One hour prior to the service in the funeral home.