Harman, Marie

Marie Harman, 75, died Monday, May 10, 2010, at her home in Keswick. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. today at Harden Funeral Chapel in What Cheer. Burial will be in South English Cemetery at South English.

Marie O. Harman was born Dec. 28, 1934, in Tazewell, Va., the daughter of Conley and Nytoklasmelvine Castell Howington. She was united in marriage to Ross Emerson on June 13, 1962, in Chicago. The couple lived in several communities throughout Eastern Iowa. After the death of her husband Marie eventually settled in Keswick. She worked for the Linn County Extension before becoming a furniture maker at Krauss Furniture Shop in South Amana where she worked until her retirement. Marie enjoyed camping, playing the guitar and writing music. She cherished all the time she spent teaching her grandchildren to cook. Faith and family meant the most to Marie.

She will be remembered as a humble, loving and patient woman.

Marie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ross Emerson; a son, John Harr; a daughter, Rita Gonnerman; a stepson, Howard Emerson; a grandson, Lance Wolmutt; three brothers, Bill Howington, Floyd Howington and Pete Howington; and a sister, Lorraine Wedlund.

She is survived by her daughter, Elva (Steve) Downing of Keswick; and a son, Harold (Dixie) Emerson of Deep River. Marie also leaves behind 15 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

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