Obituary of Gary Harkness

Mr. Gary Harkness, affectionately known by his grandchildren as Paw Paw, suddenly departed this earthly world on Monday, February 14, 2022, surrounded by his children, at Ascension Borgess Hospital. Our father, Gary, was born on March 3, 1956, to the late Jack McMillian and Ruby (Shelton) Harkness in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Gary attended Kalamazoo Public Schools.  He worked at Orrin B. Hayes as an auto detailer, he worked as a lead cook at McGinnis Landing restaurant, Bailey Excavating; Grading and most recent, he wasemployed at Rushmore Autobody as an assistant.  Gary enjoyed his family, especially his grandchildren, as there was not much he wouldn't do for them. He had a great passion for auto detailing and was known for his attention to detail. Trips to the casino was also something he looked forward to.  Our Father was one to offer advice even if you didn’t ask for it and he always told it like it was! He was proceeded in death by both parents, Jack McMillian and Ruby Harkness. Sisters, Lavada White, Dessie Burns, Mary and Vera Augusta, Nona Augusta-Kelly and Linda Gail Graves. Brothers, I.G. McMillian, and James Harkness. Gary leaves to cherish his memories: his children, Anthony (Marvella) Vincent, Eureka Vincent, Jamal McClinton, Jatarry Harkness and Akilah Hampton, all of Kalamazoo, MI. Sisters: Georgia Whitfield, Constance “Connie” Augusta, Charlene and Inette Harkness, all of Kalamazoo, MI. Grandchildren:Jaisamir “Jazzy” McClinton, Jeremiah and Laila Vincent, Marissa Anderson and Amarion McClinton, all of Kalamazoo, MI. Great Grandchild: Ty’Lasia Buchanan of Kalamazoo, MI. Also, a host of nieces and nephews to include greats, cousins, other relatives, and friends. We’d like to give special acknowledgement to the Sportman’s Barber Shop, where Gary spent much of his time kicking it with the barbershop crew! Although Gary departed from his earthy vessel, he will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.