Patricia Lee Harker, 88, died on Sunday, Aug. 2, 2026, at Azria Health Rose Vista in Woodbine. She was born on Sept. 24, 1937, in Canyon City, Colo., to William and Daisy (Orr) Thompson. She grew up in Colorado. Pat moved to Las Vagas, Nev., where she attended school and met the love of her life, Charles Harker. They were married on Aug. 31, 1956, and were blessed with three daughters, Kristine, Tammara, and Sheri. Throughout her career, Pat was known as a devoted server, bringing warmth and cheer to many places—most notably Harker’s Cafe, Kopper Kettle, and Gurney's. What began as routine service often blossomed into true friendship, as Pat’s genuine warmth turned customers into lifelong friends. Pat was a member of the Modale Iowa Methodist Church.
At the center of Pat’s life was an unwavering priority: family came first, always. This commitment was apparent not only in daily life, but in the care and joy she brought to every gathering, celebration, and quiet moment. Whether baking or cooking, Pat brought people together through delicious food. This happened especially during “family day” on Sundays or when it came to decorating sugar cookies. She found peace being outdoors, whether it be on the back of a motorcycle with Charlie, tending to gardens, or relishing time spent among mountains, trees, and rocks. Her enthusiasm for scrapbooking and decorating added a personal touch to each space. Those who had the privilege of knowing Pat remember a person who was hardworking, generous, and loved laughter.
Pat was preceded in death by her parents and husband. She is survived by her daughters, Kris and her husband Greg Colbert of Denver, Colo., Tami and her husband Mark Shelton of Pisgah, and Sheri Harker of Modale; nephew who was like a son, Bob Tharp and his wife Debbie of Menifee, Calif.; grandchildren, Miranda (Chad) Reichling, Brandon Wallis, Makaela (Matthew) Rieple, Derek (Nicole) Colbert, Tanya Colbert, and Rebecca (Chuck) Wride; 12 great-grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.
A memorial service was held for Pat on Friday, Aug. 7, 2026, at the Modale United Methodist Church. Pastor Jason Gutzmer officiated the service. The musical selections included “Dancing In The Sky” sang by Jennifer Neill, “Supermarket Flowers” by Ed Sheeran, “I Can Only Imagine” by MercyMe, and “The Dance” by Garth Brooks. Honorary pallbearers were Greg Colbert, Mark Shelton, Bob Tharp, Derek Colbert, Chad Reichling, Matthew Rieple, Tim Guinan, and Barry Thomas.
Services entrusted to Fouts Funeral Home. www.foutsfuneralhome.com
