5/6/1952 – 12/19/2024
Lawrence
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John “Mick” Michael Harrity, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and Army veteran, who left us suddenly on December 19th, 2024 at the age of 72. John found strength in his renewed faith during a recent bout with cancer, and he made it home to Jesus just in time for Christmas.
Born on May 6, 1952 in Kansas City, KS to John Frederick Harrity and Betty Imogene (Brady) Harrity (both deceased). He answered our nation’s call, serving honorably in the United States Army. It was while stationed in South Korea that he met the love of his life, Oknan “Kim”, whose warm smile, easy laugh, and unforgettable bulgogi captured and kept his heart. Their love story spanned over 50 beautiful years, a testament to their commitment and enduring partnership.
John raised two sons, Ron and Mike, whom he spoke of with immense pride. He unconditionally loved his three granddaughters, Grace (14), Evelyn (11), and Frances, and they brought him great joy–even when they mercilessly dominated him in board games.
John had a long career with the United States Postal Service, a job that he landed in 1987 after his creative and tech-savvy son Ron designed a computer program for him to practice for the hiring exam.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, he was a loyal supporter of college athletics teams thanks to his son Mike’s career in college athletics. He loved cheering on Dartmouth, Army West Point, Notre Dame, and Kansas teams, and he also loved the Kansas City Royals. John never shied away from offering his opinion on how teams could “do better next time.”
In retirement, John found solace in nature, often enjoying long walks with Oknan in the Baker Wetlands and quiet moments of backyard birdwatching. He was an avid reader, naturally curious about history and the human condition. Stubborn to the very end, John stood firm in his beliefs while cherishing the people he loved.
John is survived by his beloved wife, Oknan Harrity, his sons Ronald “Ron” Lee (Carrie Scanga) Harrity and Michael “Mike” Matthew (Megan) Harrity, his three granddaughters, Grace, Evelyn, and Frances, his sister Linda Kelley and brother-in-law Rick Kelley, and his sister Christie Huston and brother-in-law Rodney Huston.
A private family celebration of John’s life will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Kansas Alliance for Wetlands and Streams (kaws.networkforgood.com) in John’s honor.
Rest in peace. You will be dearly missed.
To leave a message for John’s family, please visit www.Rumsey-Yost.com.
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