| American Legion Post 305, Caledonia, Mi. 9548 Cherry Valley Telephone Number 616-891-1882 |
| Harry S. Padgett Jr. PADGETT - Harry S. Padgett Jr., aged 94, has gone to Fiddlers Green, the final resting place for all U.S. Cavalrymen. Harry was amongst the last of the mounted U.S. Cavalry, which was mechanized in the beginning of WWII. Harry's love for horses continued throughout his life. As a member of the Michigan Trail Riders Association, he made many cross-Michigan treks on horseback. The first Scout Master for Explorer Post 2229, he introduced his high-school age Explorers to precision drill on horseback. Harry was known to remark that horses were smarter than some people he knew. Harry was a lifetime member of US Cavalry Association and American Legion Post #305 of Caledonia. He was also an avid student of U.S. history, especially the Civil War. He amassed a collection of books on U.S. history that rivals that of many libraries. Harry exemplified the "Greatest Generation." A self-made man with no more than a high school education, he became a respected engineer for General Motors Diesel Equipment Division where he worked for 26 years, retiring in 1975. His retirement lasted but a few months before he started a new and successful career in machinery sales that lasted to his second retirement in 1985. A die-hard Detroit Tigers and Lions fan, Harry rooted for both teams through good and bad seasons." Harry and his "bride" of 63 years traveled much of the world. On returning, he always said it was good to be home. His strong belief in the value of family and friends was evident throughout his life. He provided very well for his family and gave his time and financial support to others, often without anyone knowing. Harry will be missed by his wife, Rita; daughter and son, Donna and Larry; son-in-law, Tom; grandchildren and their spouses, Michaela and Adam, Jennifer and Mike, Kristin, Carly, Bud and Karis; six great-grandchildren; nearly a hundred extended family members; and many, many friends. The family wishes to express their graditude to the amazing care takers of Homewatch Caregivers of West Michigan for their loving care. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday at 11 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church, 9669 Kraft SE, Caledonia with Fr. Mark Bauer presiding. Relatives and friends may meet the family at Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf Funeral Home, 616 E. Main Street, Caledonia on Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. Also at the church on Saturday one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one's choice. Condolences may be sent online at www.mkdfuneralhome.com. Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf. |
