Melba Harmon Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Melba Harmon passed away at the age of 93 with her loving family by her side, due to complications from dementia. Melba was born to Henry D. and Pauline Unruh on their farm in Dolton, South Dakota. She was the youngest of 11 children (3 girls and 8 boys). While growing up on the farm, she milked her own cow twice a day and drove the tractor during harvest. Melba graduated from Dolton High School and Augusta College in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. In the early 1940’s, she met the love of her life, Don Harmon, at a dance at Stanley Corners. When Don joined the Navy during WWII, Melba began teaching school in a one room county school house. Later on, Melba moved to Sioux Falls and worked in the bacon department of John Morrell meat packing company. In 1945, Don Harmon returned home from the war and they were married. They moved to Richmond, California and raised their two children. Melba worked for the Richmond public library for 17 years. Don was a Richmond firefighter and retired with 26 years of service. In 1965, they moved to Napa, CA. where Don became a realtor. Don passed away in 1992. In 2011, Melba moved to San Ramon, CA, to be closer to her family. In her 80’s, Melba enjoyed teaching water aerobics. Well into her 80’s she still bowled, played cards, and bingo. She also was an avid reader and loved to travel. She took many trips in and out of the country and also went on several cruises. Melba is survived by her two children: daughter Peri Valdez (Mel) and son Gregg Harmon (Catherine). She is also survived by her two grandchildren: Scott Valdez and Eric Harmon. Melba was predeceased by her husband Don, her parents, and all of her brothers and sisters. Her great sense of humor, especially her infectious laugh, will be etched in our memories forever. Family and friends are invited to attend Melba’s celebration of life at 1:00 PM, Tuesday, December 1, 2015 at Compadres Rio Grille, 505 Lincoln Avenue, Napa, CA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to: Gentiva Hospice, 6410 Stoneridge Mall Road Suite 175 Pleasanton, CA 94588 Private Graveside Services were conducted by Claffey and Rota Funeral Home.

Melba Harmon

December 29, 1921 - November 20, 2015

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Melba Harmon

December 29, 1921 - November 20, 2015

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