COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – Branch County is mourning the loss of longtime community pillar and dedicated Rotarian Jon Harpst, who passed away on Saturday, October 31.
A resident of Coldwater, Harpst spent decades fostering community growth, local education, and civic engagement.
Harpst leaves behind an enduring legacy centered on expanding educational opportunities for youth throughout Branch County.
After joining the Coldwater Township Sunrise Rotary Club in 2006, he became the driving force behind the creation of its flagship Promise Scholarship program, working tirelessly alongside local partners to build an endowment fund that surpassed $500,000.
In recognition of his immense contributions, the program was recently renamed the Coldwater Township Sunrise Rotary Jon Harpst Promise Scholarship, which just last month awarded $28,000 in funding to 33 Branch County students pursuing vital healthcare and skilled trade careers at Kellogg Community College.
Memorial Gathering will be held this Friday, November 6, 10:30 a.m to 12:00 p.m. at Dutcher Funeral Home in Coldwater with a Celebration of Life to follow.
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