Gary A. "Bear" Harmon

Gary A. “Bear” Harmon, 68, passed away at 12:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.

Bear was born on October 17, 1957, in Lima, Ohio, to the late Jack and Barbara (Baker) Harmon. On June 10, 1978, he married Julie (Graham) Harmon, who survives in Lima.

Bear retired from Waste Management, and was formerly employed at American Trim and Continental Plastics. He also held State Certifications in Industrial Maintenance. Bear enjoyed fishing, boating, and camping at Indian Lake. He was also a supporter of Elida Athletic Booster Club, Elida Band program, FFA, and Allen County 4-H. He was also directly involved in Elida BYAA from 1988-2004. Paw Paw Bear never missed any events of his kids or grandkids.

Along with his wife Julie, he is survived by his children, Jill (James) Coppler, Mark (Katie) Harmon, and Ross (Jessica) Harmon; grandchildren, Leah and Emma Coppler, Lane, Brynn and Graham Harmon, and Wren, Andi May, and Tanner Scott Harmon; brothers, John (Mary) Harmon, David (Ann) Harmon and Tom (Rene) Harmon; a brother-in-law, Hal (Renee) Graham; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by a son, Scott Graham Harmon; a sister-in-law, Christine Graham; and in-laws, Russ and Josine Graham.

The family will receive friends from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, Ohio. The funeral service will begin at 12p.m. on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, with visitation one hour prior to service. Pastor Todd Cosart will officiate. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery, Lima.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Scott Graham Harmon Scholarship, 4380 Sunnydale, Elida, Ohio 45807, in care of Elida Local Schools.

Arrangements handled by Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed at www.chamberlainhuckeriede.com.