Harold leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife, Martha Staley; brothers, Richard Staley and Charles Staley; sister, Mary Hennigh; daughter, Patricia Felts; son James Staley; grandchildren, Veronica Felts, Ricky Felts, Patrick Felts, Leighanna Staley, Clorrisa Staley and Robert Staley. He also leaves many memories with his students at the Red Dragon Martial Arts in Fresno, CA.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father; his sister, Joretta and his son, Robert Staley.
Harold was born in Wichita, Kansas on August 29, 1838 to Sam and Alma Staley. He entered the United States Navy in 1957 and served until 1977. During his 20 year Navy career, he served in Okinawa, Japan where he found his love and passion for matrial arts. He served two tours in Viet Nam and served aboard the USS America. Harold served as a hospital corpsman and for many years of his service he was attached to the United States Marine Corp. He always said he “loved being a Corpsman”. In 1977, Harold retired from the Navy and went on to college, studying math as well as several other trades. There was nothing that he couldn’t do once he decided to do it. Harold could play any instrument that he picked up and played in a blue grass band. Harold made violins and other string instruments by hand at the String Haven Music Store in Visalia. He also spent some time as a gun smith.
One of his greatest joys was teaching martial arts and he taught many students over 35 years. He is known as Grand Master Harold Staley at the Red Dragon Martial Arts School in Fresno, CA.
On February 15, 1986, he married Marcie Theison and they made their home in Visalia. They spent many hours entertaining children at birthday parties and parades as clowns. He loved being a clown. Harold loved hamburgers, pizza and watching the history channel. There were very few dull moments with Harold. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Memorial services will be held on Sunday, May 5, 2013 at 2 pm. at the United Methodist Church, 2359 W Superior in Caruthers, CA
Tributes and condolences may be made at www.millerchapel.com.
Arrangements entrusted to Miller Memorial Chapel, 1120 W. Goshen Avenue, Visalia, CA 93291 (559) 732-8371.
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