Kelly J Harman

After a long battle of Spindle Cell Sarcoma, Kelly J Harman (68) returned to his Heavenly Father on December 10, 2024 in Pocatello Idaho with his loving wife by his side. He was born on June 11, 1956 to Barbara “Bobbie” Owen and Robert G. Hynek in Pocatello Idaho. Bobbie married Orin M. Harman in 1960.

He has fond memories of living in Darlington, Idaho with his Harman family. They moved to Pocatello at the beginning of his elementary years. His formative years he lived on Maplewood, then at the age of 14, his family moved out to Tyhee. He graduated with the class of 1974 from Highland High School. He forged life-long friends everywhere he lived.

On October 1, 1976 he married the love of his life, Tammy Marie. They were sealed in the Idaho Falls Temple October 13, 1977. They were blessed with four children that brought incredible joy to their lives.

Kelly had a variety of jobs through the years and worked very hard to provide for his family. Lion’s Candy was the beginning of his business career. From there he went to Dealership Management Systems where he traveled as a computer installation specialist. His career continued at Idaho State University helping with the continuing education programs. He was instrumental in developing youth programs, among his favorites was the youth Space Exploration Program and the ISU Children’s Chorus. He enjoyed his years working at Franklin Jr. High as a long-term substitute and a football coach. He had a dynamic way of teaching that will always be remembered.

His career path took another turn when he began working for Intermountain Concrete Specialties, where he worked for 24 years. He began his time there as an outside sales rep in South East Idaho . In 2005 he and Tammy moved to Salt Lake City and he took over as the sales manager and eventually the Vice President over sales for the company. He was proud to be a partner and an owner at ICS. He was loyal to the company and he treasured the relationships he developed there.

In 2017, he retired from ICS and began a dream job as the National Sales Manager over the archery division of Easton Technical Products. He loved traveling throughout all of the United States, formulating quality friendships and interacting with world-wide athletes. Easton opened up a new world of archery hunting, which he enjoyed with his son and grandsons.

Kelly found pleasure in many aspects of life. He found joy in being in the outdoors. He loved riding his motorcycle and being a member of the Patriot Guard. He enjoyed snowmobiling with Leonard Jensen. He loved camping, hiking Mt. Borah, and attending Utes football games. He loved fly fishing and archery. His idea of a vacation was a sandy beach. He found peace in his photography and was particularly fond of capturing the rising and setting sun.

At the encouragement of his bishop, he agreed to attend Wood badge with the Boy Scouts of America. This experience transformed his life and strengthened him in many ways. This prepared him to serve the youth in various capacities over the years. He loved being there to help mold and mentor the youth. He influenced the lives of many young people throughout his life.

Retirement brought the blessing of his dog, Harley. Harley is not an ordinary dog. He became his sidekick and he kept him moving the past 4 years. They walked at the Portneuf Wellness Complex (aka Harley’s Park) nearly everyday. Harley went on many truck rides, camping trips, and spent many hours laying by his side.

Kelly is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Many of his friendships he developed from serving others through various callings. His favorite calling was serving as Elders Quorum President; he grew the most from serving as a bishop to the wonderful people of Magna Utah; and he was the most loved when serving as a Sunday School teacher to the 15-16 year olds. One of his most cherished assignments was when he was asked to be the Priesthood advisor to the Relief Society Worldwide General Conference Women’s Choir during his time serving in the Stake Presidency in Magna. These experiences gave him many titles, but ya know what?(as he would say) The title he kept closest to his heart, as it was the only one that really mattered, was that of being a Son of God.

Later in life, he and Tammy served together in many callings. They were best friends and soulmates in every sense and most who know them, know them as one. They were missionaries for the Addiction Recovery Program, Temple ordinance workers, housing coordinator service missionaries in the Pocatello, Idaho Mission, and up until his death, their home was known as the Missionary Motel where they got to provide a bed and breakfast for missionaries who were entering and leaving the mission field.

Kelly proudly supported his children and grandchildren in as many activities as he could attend. He was not a fan of musical theater, until his grandchildren started performing in plays. He attended football games, wrestling matches, soccer games, basketball games, drill team performances, concerts, and music recitals. He found his greatest joy in being with his family.

The year 2009 introduced Kelly and Tammy to their journey with cancer. They met many challenges and developed strength along the way as they supported each other through each challenge. In 2019 he was given the devastating diagnosis of Spindle Cell Sarcoma. His optimism and hopeful attitude resulted in Kelly being asked to speak at a Sarcoma Forum at the Huntsman Cancer Institute. We would like to express our appreciation for the many staff, nurses, and doctors that have served and cared for Kelly. Dr. Kevin Jones was not only his doctor, but quickly became his friend. Dr. Anna Chalmers was concerned with treating the whole person. Melissa Shephard, PA was always caring, kind, and firm when he needed it. Dr. Brandon Lawrence was unafraid to try new procedures. Kelly was one of the first of his patients to receive carbon fiber in his back. Dr. Brian Hansen and his staff have listened carefully, kindly and provided the things Kelly and Tammy needed in medical care. Most recently, Portneuf Medical Center staff gave gentle and genuine care in his final days. Tammy and Kelly appreciate the strength and support they have received from their many friends and they found blessings as they supported others in their cancer journey while attending the Hope Cancer Support Group.

Kelly is survived by his wife, Tammy; Two children, Bambi Harman and T .J. (Stephanie) Harman; His grandchildren, Jessica (Jake)+1, Cody, Toby (Bianca), Wyatt (Orion)+1, Cole, Nicole (Dusty), Shaelynn, Casey, Taylor, and Josalyn; His brother Robert (Leaa) Harman; and Robert G. (Joyce) Hynek.

He is preceded in death by his parents Orin and Bobbie Harman; two children Kelli Jo Harman and Casey James Harman; two sisters Barbie Durham and Wendy Preston.

Funeral service provided by Manning-Wheatley Funeral Home will be held Saturday, December 14th, 11:00 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4600 Victory Ave. Chubbuck, Idaho. Viewings will be at the church from 6-8 pm on Friday, December 13th and at 10 am Saturday. Burial will follow at Mountain View Cemetery, 1520 S. 5th Ave. Pocatello, Idaho.

Kelly would want nothing more than to help you, his friends and family, find a little bit of peace in your own life through the power of forgiveness. In honor of him, we invite you to accept this invitation and reach out to someone who needs your forgiveness.

In lieu of flowers, we would be pleased if you would consider donating to help us place a tribute to Kelly, Tammy, and Harley at the Portneuf Wellness Complex. You may donate to our Venmo @StephanieHarman or you may write a check made out to Stephanie Harman.