Obituary of Harry Webster Nash

Harry Webster Nash, 85, of Duluth passed away peacefully with his family by his side Friday, February 22, 2019 at the Franciscan Health Center, after a long battle with Parkinson's Disease.

He was born April 1, 1933 to Paul and Nellie Nash of Wheaton, MN.

Harry grew up on the farm just outside Wheaton and graduated from Wheaton High School as a four sport letter winner. He earned the title "Wheaton Whippet" for his speed on the track and took First Place at State in 1951 for the 100 yard dash. He went on to graduate from the University of Minnesota and was a proud member of Phi Delta Epsilon Fraternity and Track and Field. Harry still holds records for the 100, 220 and 330 yard dashes. His relay team also took First at the Drake Relays during his time at the U. Harry was inducted into the Minnesota Track and Field Hall of Fame in 2011.

On July 30, 1955, he married the love of his life, Mary Ellen Shoquist.

Harry's first job was with the Recreation Department of St. Paul, MN, then he took the position of Parks and Recreation Director for the City of Duluth. After retiring from the city, he worked for Bombardier Corp and lastly, for Dain Bosworth until his retirement.

Harry was an active member of the Duluth YMCA and served on its Board. He enjoyed his stock club and belonged to First Lutheran Church.

His hobbies and interests were many including, photography, bird watching "eagle eye," dancing, biking, flight school, tennis, golf, motorcycling, 1/2 marathon running, traveling and boating. Harry's true joy was when he and Mary spent time with their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a people person and enjoyed his wide circle of friends and his brothers and sisters-in-law.

Harry was preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Jean Marie Barck.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Mary; children, Patty (Tim) Sertich, Sara (Chris) Haugen and Peter Nash, all of Duluth; son-in-law, Dave Barck of Mpls; five grandchildren, Lindsey (Adam) Gauss, Rachel (Mike) Keogan, Abby (Pat) Miller, Erin Anderson and Spencer Barck; five great-grandchildren (plus one more on the way), Amelia, Alex and Wyatt Gauss, Maddie Miller and Lucas Keogan.

The family wishes to thank Edgewood Vista, Ecumen Rehab, the Franciscan Health Center and Essentia Hospice for the warm and compassionate care that Harry received.

Visitation from 10 a.m. until the 11 a.m. memorial service Friday, March 8th at First Lutheran Church, 1100 E. Superior St., Duluth. Memorials may be sent to the First Lutheran Church Foundation.

A private family burial will be held at a later date.