Harlan E. Gewecke, 89, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, passed away peacefully Dec. 6, 2016, surrounded by his loving family. Harlan was born on Nov. 26, 1927, to Earl and Fern (Black) Gewecke in Belle Plaine, Iowa.

He grew up in Belle Plaine and graduated from high school in 1945. He joined the Air Force in November 1945 and was eventually stationed in Airway Heights. During his time in the service, he received the World War II Victory Medal and was a Crash Fighter. During his time in Spokane, he would go to the roller skating rink and that is where he met Joan Crisp, the love of his life. Harlan and Joan were married on July 6, 1948, at the Hitching Post in Coeur d’Alene. Harlan’s truck driving career took them to California, but in 1970 the family moved back to Coeur d’Alene. Here they purchased a brand new home, which they have lived in for 46 years.

Harlan worked for Consolidated Freightways 1967-1989. He had Million plus miles accident free on his record. Harlan enjoyed fishing, boating, motorcycle riding, traveling in their RV and roller skating. In his later years, he enjoyed his daily drive around The Lake. Harlan drove himself to and from dialysisthree days a week for the last seven years of his life until family was honored to be his taxi drivers the last several months of his life. Harlan would like to thank Christi and Sheri for their help. Harlan’s family would like to thank Dr. Mielke, the Fresenius Medical Care Dialysis Unit and nurse Terry for the excellent care that Harlan received from them. Harlan’s family also thanks our Renaissance family and Hospice of North Idaho.

Harlan is survived by his wife, Joan of 68 years. Harlan and Joan were blessed with four boys: Danny (Patti) of Lake Havasu, Ariz., and their sons Tim and Rusty; Rick (Debi) of Rathdrum, and their kids, Christi, Sheri, Johnny and Sarah; Bobby (Lara) of Coeur d’Alene, and their kids Casey, AnnaLecia, Jenny and Doug; and Earl (Sue) of Athol, and their son Austin; and many beautiful great-grandkids.

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, 2016, at Riverview Cemetery in Coeur d’Alene, with a celebration of life at Renaissance Assisted Living (Mirabelle House, 2994 W. Avante’ Loop, Coeur d’Alene) following.

Yates Funeral Homes has been entrusted with the care of arrangements. Please visit Harlan memorial and sign his online guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.