We Call Him Blessed...

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Aaron Sverre Harkness



"This is a great man" Aaron Sverre Harkness, 30, our dearly loved husband, father, son, brother, and friend, passed away Nov. 29, 2007 at his parent's home in Bountiful, Utah while in his sleep.Aaron was born March 29, 1977 in Bountiful, Utah to Stephen Harold Harkness and Elida Susen Jensen. He married his love, Leslie Kay Higginson, on August 21, 2002 in the Salt Lake Temple. Aaron is the love of Leslie's life and thankfully, he is the love of her eternity. Aaron was one-of-a-kind, a great man. His greatest redeeming characteristic in life was his generous, loving heart the size of Texas. This vast love for others was infectious, and people were naturally drawn to him. He spent his entire life serving others, often unnoticed and at his own expense. Aaron served an honorable mission for the LDS Church in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He loved the Brazilian people and was able to serve in many capacities as a missionary. There's no doubt that his great love for the people touched countless lives. Aaron was an exceptional husband and father. He was amazingly strong, but gentle. A giant both in stature and heart. He was also a passionate outdoorsman. He delighted in spending time outdoors with his family, friends, his dog Ode, and his horse Sheila. Somehow, Aaron always shot the biggest buck and caught the biggest fish. Aaron was a cowboy at heart and he was guiding his son in those same footsteps. They loved spending time together. Aaron spent the majority of his working life self-employed as a carpenter, making unique and beautiful furniture. He had so many talents, so much knowledge to offer. He always tried to take advantage of every teaching moment. He was also employed as a counselor at Discovery Ranch in Springville, Utah. He was instrumental in giving comfort and guidance to troubled youth. There are many aspects of Aaron's life that parallel that of his Savior's life. Christ was his ideal. Although he spent only 30 short years here on this earth, he lived his life to the fullest. Aaron touched the lives of everyone who came into contact with his generous spirit. We are all better people for knowing him. We love you Aaron! Survived by his loving wife Leslie; son, Aaron Sverre Harkness Jr; parents, Steve and Sue Harkness; sisters, Sadie Joy Muhlestein (Nick), and April Starr Whiting (Dave); and brother, Steve Harold Harkness II (Christa). Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, December 4, 2007 at 11 a.m. at the Bountiful 34th ward located at 540 N. 1200 E. Viewings will be held in his honor Monday, December 3, 2007 from 6-8 p.m. at Russon Brothers Mortuary located at 295 N. Main St in Bountiful, Utah, and from 9:45 a.m. -10:45 a.m. at the church prior to the service. Interment-Salt Lake City Cemetery. A college fund is being set up for Aaron Jr.
Online guest book at: www.russonmortuary.com
Published in the Salt Lake Tribune on 12/2/2007.