Berlin Leon Harshbarger

On June 18th, 2014 Leon Harshbarger transitioned from earth to be with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Leon was born and raised in Greenville, Ohio. He graduated from Greenville High School, earned an associate degree from Edison State College and then attended both the University of Dayton and Wright State University from where he earned a B.A. in Communication.

Leon was preceded in death by his parents, Berlin and Evelyn (Myers) Harshbarger.

Born with cerebral palsy and legally blind, Leon spent his lifetime in a wheelchair. Physical limitations were only a slight impediment to his life. He enjoyed fishing with his dad at Lake Erie. Being an avid sports fan, he attended many Red's ballgames and Bengal's football games. He also attended a Final Four weekend. He never turned down an opportunity to eat out. For several years he volunteered at Joni and Friends Family Retreats. Leon was a Ham Radio Operator and was a 23 year member of the Treaty City Amateur Radio Association. He served 25 years on the Greenville Transit Advisory Committee, and was a past Deacon and Sunday School teacher at Bible Fellowship Church.

Leon was most proud of completing college. Everything he learned was by memory or one letter at a time, piecing those letters into words and then words into sentences. Everything was time consuming, difficult and accomplished.

Leon faced the terminal diagnosis of esophageal cancer with a unique courage. His goal was to stay in his home. He had some physically challenging days, but with the support of his friends and Hospice, the goal was met.

Leon will be missed. His friendships were strong and enduring. He taught us that life is sometimes unfair, but trials can be overcome by patience, courage and faith.

Funeral Services will be held at Bible Fellowship Church, 7757 Greenville-Celina Road, Greenville, Ohio at 5:30pm Tuesday June 24th. Leon requested that a Pizza party be held in his honor following the service. Graveside services will be at Memorial Gardens, 8677 Ohio 118, Greenville, Ohio at 9:00am Wednesday, June 25th.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Oliver-Floyd Funeral Home in Greenville, Ohio.