Harlo Hirschi

Harlo L Hirschi, a man who was loved by all, passed away on February 5th, from an extended illness. He was born May 20, 1933 in Rexburg, Idaho. He grew up in Salem Idaho, and had 3 brothers, Keith, Gordon, Brent, and 2 sisters, Vora and Laurel. He attended Pocatello High School and afterwards moved to Oregon.

Harlo was always interested in the military, but was not allowed to enlist because of a heart condition. In 1954, he had surgery to correct it, and was later drafted into the Army, where he was stationed at Ft. Lewis, Ft. Ord and Ft. Bragg. In 1959, he was assigned to serve in Germany and was there for 6 years. He loved Germany, and there met his first wife, Birtha, with whom he had one daughter, Gertrude.

As a staff Sargent, his service included time in Vietnam in 1965 where he was wounded and received the Purple Heart, and the Silver Star, among many other awards. He later served in Korea, where he was awarded the "Key To Korea" for exemplary service in helping with building and expanding the infrastructure. He later returned to Germany, where he eventually retired with the rank of Sargent First Class.

After returning the states, he met Rayola Brown. They fell in love and married on March 7th, 1980. They had 34 wonderful years together until Rae passed away in April, 2014. He worked in Pocatello for McNabb Trucking, for the Idaho State Parks, and also as a mechanic. He and Rayola enjoyed camping, fishing, and time with friends and family. They especially enjoyed their four grandchildren, Sean & Chris Pletcher, and Bobby & Kyle Brown.

He is survived by his and Rayola's kids, Susan (John) Pletcher; Robert (Lanea) Brown; Gertrude Ruider; and his sister, Laurel; and brother, Brent. He will be dearly missed, and never forgotten.

Harlo's wishes were to not have a public and formal funeral service. Private services have already been held and his family appreciates the understanding of his many friends to honor his wishes.

Condolences may be sent to his family online at www.wilksfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, he and the family would like memorial donations to be given in his name to the Pocatello Animal Shelter, Upper Ross Park, 3100 Ave. of the Chiefs, Pocatello, ID 83205.