Harlan Shermer

With a heavy heart we say goodbye to Harlan Jerome Shermer, born on December 4th 1936 and passed away December 26th, 2018 at the age of 82. A memorial service will be held 10:30am Saturday, December 29, 2018 at Pecan Grove Funeral Home, 3124 Robinson Dr., Waco, with Pastor Ronnie Holmes officiating. Following cremation, a private family burial will take place at Riesel Cemetery.
Harlan was born in Corley, Arkansas - a division of Flat Top Mountain in Logan County where He lived most of his childhood with his maternal grandfather, Clyde Anderson.
On the mountain Harlan enjoyed hunting, exploring and getting into a LOT of mischief with his two best friends, his cousins, Duane (Dobber) Anderson and Sonny Thompson. When Corley and Paris merged their school districts the boys were bused to Paris, Arkansas in the 7th grade to attend school, they quickly became known as “The Corley Boys” – “Here come those Corley Boys!” The adventures and possibly part ‘tall’ tells they have told the younger generations over the years will be forever cherished and remembered. A family favorite would be crawling into a big, naked tree and crowing at a teacher. The life lesson learned on that particular trick is unforgettable!
Moving to Alameda, California in his teen years, he lived with his mother, Alice and younger brother, Wayne. He graduated high school, went to work and later met and married Hilda Shaw, his wife of 55 years. After a few years of marriage they moved to Riesel, Texas making it their forever home.
Harlan had a 40 plus year career in the corrugated industry as a Maintenance Supervisor, retiring from Macmillan Bloedel/Weyerhaeuser in 1999. After retirement he worked part-time another 7 years as a security clerk for Cargill.
A few of Harlan’s well known passions were his family, riding his big motorcycles, working on all kinds of older vehicles, camping, his dogs, especially his last loyal companion, Chiweenie dog, Dixie. He enjoyed a cold Budweiser, Old Crow and country music.
Harlan is survived by his wife Hilda, his daughter Halena Hellums and her husband Jon. His son, Heath Shermer and two grandsons, Jacob Hellums and Austin Shermer along with many cherished family members and friends.
Most importantly, Harlan Shermer was a great husband, dad, grandfather and friend. His hard work ethics, problem solving and quick wit that intertwined with a very hard head and rule breaker for the good will always be remembered with a smile.
The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Bluebonnet Hospice for their excellent care during Harlan’s long illness; and to the many family and friends who extended kindness and assistance.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bluebonnet Hospice of Waco.