Harlow Paul Adams

Harlow Paul Adams, Sr. passed peacefully into eternal bliss on February 8, 2016 with his children at his side. Born in Yakima on January 9th, 1922 to Fay (Ruckman) and Joe Adams, Harlow grew up there, graduating from Yakima High in 1940 and joining the National Guard when he turned 18. When the war began he was assigned to the 25th US Army Division in the 161st jungle warfare regiment. Harlow received the Bronze Star for his combat service in the Solomon Islands at the battles of Guadalcanal and New Georgia. He served the remainder of the war at Camp Roberts in California as a sergeant training inductees in jungle warfare tactics.

In 1944 he married Adelaide Jones, his wife of 71 years, in San Luis Obispo, CA. After an honorable discharge from the army in 1945, he and Addie returned to Yakima, where they raised their family. Harlow was a dedicated husband and father, who led his sons in Boy Scouts, sponsored his daughter’s Camp Fire group, taught his children gymnastics, wrestling, hunting, fishing, camping and multiplication, and attended every sporting event.

After the war, Harlow worked for the Standard Oil Company, opening his own Chevron dealership in 1955 which he operated until 1972. He later worked for Wagner Chevrolet as a service manager and then in manufacturing as an equipment operator before retiring in 1984.

Harlow and Addie were founding members of the Englewood Christian Church in Yakima where he routinely attended with his family and served as deacon for many years. Harlow documented his family life with many fine photographs and extensive genealogical work. He also loved card games with friends and family, and playing the guitar and violin with the Old Time Fiddlers. He is remembered by one and all as the nice guy with a camera, a smile and a quick wit. Those Harlow left behind know they are indebted to him for the nobility of character he exemplified throughout his life.

He is survived by his wife Adelaide, children Harlow Paul, Jr., Scott and Susan Adams, daughter-in-law, Janet, six grandchildren, four great grandchildren, half sister Mary Jane Colby, half brothers Bob, John and Glen Adams, and stepsisters Rose Oliver and Florence Slater. Preceding him in death were his parents, stepparents Carl Oliver and Roby Adams, and half brother Jimmy.

Visitation will be held at Keith & Keith Funeral Home Friday, February 19, 2016 from 4 pm to 8 pm.

A Funeral Service will be held 10 am, Saturday, February 20, 2016 at Rainier Memorial Center, followed by interment at Terrace Heights Memorial Park with military honors.

To share a memory of Harlow, please visit www.keithandkeith.com