Arvin Harsh

Arvin Harsh, 91, left his birthplace on the family farm near Eglon, WV, on July 13, 2023, surrounded by his family, transitioning to his Heavenly Home, for which he had been preparing his entire life. Born on February 6, 1932, he was the son of the late Jesse and Effie Harsh.

He was a graduate of Aurora High School. He began farming in the dairy world, and later transitioned to his family farm with Angus beef cattle. He truly enjoyed farming, especially at his family farm. Arvin worked in purchasing for the former Garrett County Memorial Hospital and the Island Creek/Consolidated Coal Company. He was a member of the Maple Spring Church of the Brethren and loved his church family dearly. He served on several commissions and committees, and spent countless hours volunteering his time at the church. He chaired the committee that established goals and started the plan to build the current Family Life Center at the church. He helped build a habitat home and worked with the district in other areas on disaster projects. He and his wife, Rita, served as Deacons at the church for most of their adult lives. He also served on several committees for the West Marva Church of the Brethren District, one of which was as a trustee chairman for Camp Galilee near Terra Alta. Arvin was a member of the Mt. Lions Club, where he shared many goals with fellow club members, and attained the Lion's Chevron 50-year award. Arvin loved his community and believed it was a vital part of a good life. Having a strong belief in a good school within a community was very important and he served on the Aurora School Improvement Council. He also served on the Preston County Board during the 70's, and on Challenge West Virginia, which is a state organization striving to keep community schools.

He is survived by three children, Kirsta Hayes and husband Charles J. of Eglon, Sue Corbin and husband Rick of Eglon, and Ronnie Harsh and wife Delores of Wyoming; four grandchildren, Kevin Corbin and wife Bridget, Brian Corbin and wife Mindy, Tyler Harsh and wife Kali, and Kari Harsh; five great grandchildren, Clayton, Jaxon, Charlotte, Kirra, and Elias.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Rita Harsh, and six siblings.

The Harsh family would like to extend a huge debt of gratitude to Kim Fitzwater, who has become a close family friend, as she spent three years caring for and being a wonderful friend to Arvin. Also, a special thank you to the wonderful medical care given to Arvin by Drs. Foy, Zagula, Lindsey and Lastinger.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mt. Lions Club, 5315 Stemple Ridge Rd., Aurora, WV 2670; WV Caring Hospice, PO Box 760, Arthurdale, WV, 26520; Maple Spring FLC, PO Box 25, Eglon, WV 26716; or Camp Galilee, PO Box 146, Terra Alta, WV, 26764.

A private graveside service was held at the Maple Spring Cemetery. A celebration of life for Arvin and Rita will be held on Saturday, July 22, 2023, at 11:30 AM, in the Maple Spring FLC.

The Hinkle-Fenner Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Harsh family at this time.