James Ray Harmsen

James Ray Harmsen died peacefully early in the morning on November 21, 2023 at his home in Hinkley, California. He had recently been diagnosed with kidney cancer and spent his final days in the care of his loving family. He was 73.

Born May 31, 1950 in Artesia, California to Richard and Henrietta Harmsen, Jim was the first boy in his family. He had an older sister, Alverna, a twin sister, Janie (who was a whole five minutes older than him), a younger brother, Rich, and “baby sister,” Susan. Jim attended Ontario Christian Schools where he was active in football, basketball and track. He graduated in 1968. The most important thing he gained from school was his wife, Ruth Ann (Ykema). He married his high school sweetheart in 1970. After a few years working construction, Jim and Ruth went into the dairy business with his father in law, and Jim spent the next 50 years as a dairyman. They moved to the High Desert in 1981 where they remained until his death.

Jim and Ruth were blessed with three children, Flora, Jim Jr., and Ken. He worked hard but enjoyed his time with his family and friends. Jim was very involved in the life of his church, serving on the steering committee at their small church in Barstow, and then later serving as a deacon and then elder at High Desert United Reformed Church. He enjoyed fishing, woodworking and attending gospel concerts, as well as quiet evenings at home with his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Jim is survived by his wife of 53 years, Ruth Ann Harmsen, as well as his children Flora, Jim Jr., and Ken (Priscilla). He is also survived by his grandchildren Elijah, Jacob, Ethan, Eliana, Mavis, and Clayton. He will be greatly missed by all his family (immediate, extended, church family, and close friends.). However, we are comforted in knowing that Jim knew Christ as his savior and is now face to face with him in glory.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at Sunset Hills Memorial Park, located at 24000 Waalew Rd. Apple Valley, CA 92307. Viewing begins at 10:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. Graveside service and lunch reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the memory of James Harmsen to High Desert United Reformed Church or to Providence Christian College.