Birth Date: 05/08/1943
Deceased Date: 06/22/2023
Thomas Robert Harder was a loving husband, caring father, and devoted grandfather. He passed away peacefully in his home on Thursday, June 22, 2023.
Tom was born in Binghamton, New York to Ralph and Virginia Harder on May 8, 1943. In 1955 Tom and his family moved to Thompson Street, across the street from the Weldy family and their 11-year-old daughter, Diane – the girl who would become the love of his life. Tom and Diane married on July 18, 1964 and had two sons, Robert, and Steven. In 1962 Tom joined the Marine Corps Reserve and proudly served his country until 1968. Tom worked with his dad at the family garage, which eventually became Tom Harder’s Service Center, for 50 years. Tom also combined work and fun by running a wrecker at 5 Mile Point Speedway.
In 2013 Tom and Diane moved to Selma, North Carolina. While living in Selma, Tom was able to spend time with his family and enjoy his hobbies. Tom could often be found at the race track with his son Rob, or golfing with Steve. Tom also spent a lot of time in his shop woodworking and building things for his grandchildren. Tom was a lifetime member of the Marine Corps League and Binghamton Gun Club; he was a member of Selma American Legion Post 141 and First Presbyterian Church of Smithfield. He also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.
Tom is survived by his wife of 59 years, Diane, sons Robert (Maryanne) and Steven (Amy), grandchildren Molly, Brianna, Emily, and Alexander, brothers David (Linda), and Dennis, nieces and nephews, and his beloved cocker spaniel, Buddy. He was predeceased by his parents, Ralph and Virginia, and sister-in-law Maureen.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 28, 2023, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm and the funeral will be held on Thursday, June 29, 2023, at 11:00 am at Wm R. Chase and Son Funeral Home, 737 Chenango St., Port Dickinson, NY. A graveside service will follow at Chenango Valley cemetery. In lieu of flowers please make donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the ASPCA.
