Harold E. Haber, 93, of White, passed away on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at the Avera Heart Hospital in Sioux Falls.  Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at the United Methodist Church in White, SD at 10:30 a.m.  Burial will immediately follow the service at Fairview Cemetery in White.  A time of fellowship will follow burial at the church with a meal served.  Visitation will take place from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. the evening prior, Friday, October 25, 2024, at the United Methodist Church in White.

Harold E. Haber was born on October 1, 1931, in Brookings, SD, to Hortie and Olive (Simmons) Haber.  Harold spent his youth on the family farm, attending rural elementary school near White, SD, and was a graduate of White High School in 1949.  Following graduation, Harold continued his education, graduating with a 2 year Ag Degree from the School of Agriculture at South Dakota State College.

In 1952, Harold enlisted into the United States Air Force, proudly serving his country until 1956.  During his four years in the military, Harold served two of those years in the Korean War Theatre.  Harold was also a member of the Higgins-Jensen-Olson American Legion Post 88 for over 60 years.  In 2021, Harold was grateful to have attended the Midwest Honor Flight.

Following his enlistment, Harold returned to the family farm and farmed alongside his father and brother Merlin for many years.  On September 27, 1958, Harold was united in marriage to Marlys Rishoi in White.  The couple had just celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary this year.

Harold was highly committed to the community of White throughout his life.  He and Marlys were members of the United Methodist Church in White.  Harold was an original director for the Brookings-Deuel Rural Water System, serving as the treasurer of the organization for over 47 years.  He was active in the Sherman Township board and was recognized for 43 years of service by the South Dakota Association of Towns and Townships.  He served for over 10 years as the treasurer of the Brookings County Crop Improvement Association, as well as on the board of directors of the White CO-OP Creamery.  He also served as a bank director of First National Bank in White (currently First Bank and Trust).

Harold held many interests throughout his life, but he especially enjoyed watching and playing various sports.  Harold watched sporting events daily, whether it be in person at Deubrook Dolphins or SDSU games, or on television late into the evening.  He was a dedicated coach alongside Marlys for youth softball, and enjoyed golf until he turned 92.  Harold also enjoyed playing cards throughout his life, recently playing cards with Marlys every morning.  Perhaps his greatest joy in life was his family, as Harold greatly enjoyed moments when his family could all be together during the holidays.

Harold is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Marlys, of White; children: Dixie (Rocky) Miller, of Fargo, ND, Kim (David) Heim, of Madison, SD, Craig Haber, of White, SD, and Kevin (Darcy) Haber, of Huron, SD; grandchildren: Derek (Nicole) Miller, Michelle (JR) O'Hara, Kayla (Reid) Jungling, Joshua (Desiree) Haber, Kyle (Melanie) Haber, Justin Haber, Jordan Heim, Allison Heim, Brandon (Lindsey) Haber, Hailey (Wyatt Burke) Haber; 12 great-grandchildren; and several extended family members.

He is preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Merlin; and one great-granddaughter, Daphne Haber.