Marty Harms

Marty Harms, a man of many talents and a heart full of kindness, passed away unexpectedly on July 6th, 2024.

 Marty was born on March 3, 1963 in Clear Lake, SD to George and Dorothy (Hansen) Harms. He was baptized at Walle Lutheran Church in Thompson, ND and attended Thompson High School until the end of 10th grade. Marty set off on his own, determined to succeed. Later he obtained his GED, attended Schools in Canby and Detroit Lakes for Diesel Mechanics and auto body studies.

 On March 26, 1983, Marty married Peggy Lambrecht and had two children together, Jessica and Mikel. They were later divorced but continued to be in each other's lives.

 On September 3, 1994, Marty married Denise Playle and together with his biological children, raised “their” children Adam and Anthony. They were later divorced but again, continued to be in each other's lives. To Marty, family was family, his kids were his kids, and there were no blurred lines in between.

 Marty’s dedication to learning mirrored his work ethic in becoming a “jack of all trades.” From growing up farming with his uncles, driving semi, teaching auto-mechanics in Detroit Lakes and Fergus Falls, and later finding success as the owner and operator of Harms Towing and most recently a general contractor. Known as “The Guy,” if he didn’t know how to do it or fix it, he knew someone who did.

 Marty was more than just a career man. He was a beloved member of the community who found joy connecting people through faith and church at Messiah Lutheran in Underwood. Known for his larger-than-life personality, and genuine love for others, Marty left a forever mark on all who knew him.

 In his leisure time, Marty indulged in his enjoyment for guns, hunting, ATV trail riding, and anything that allowed him to embrace the outdoors. But one passion that brought him solace and joy were his grand-kids and time spent with family.

 Although Marty has departed this world he leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness that will forever be cherished by those he impacted. He is survived by his mother, Dorothy Olson, children Adam (Danielle) Gutzmer, Anthony (Angela) Gutzmer, Jessica (Ricky) Day, and Mikel (Tammy) Harms. His sister Jodi (Dean) Dirk, his grandchildren, Lillian, Helena, Lincoln, Austin, Theo, Evelyn and Iyla, special friend Aimee Tougas and honorary children, Devin, Tyler and Tanner Carlson, Casadee and Connor Campbell and Aubree Tougas, along with numerous other “children,” relatives and friends who will miss him dearly.

 A visitation will be held at Messiah Lutheran Church in Underwood on July 15th from 9:30am to 11:00am followed by a Memorial Service to celebrate Marty’s life and the impact he had on everyone around him. A light lunch will be served following the service. A burial service will take place on Wednesday July 17th at 11am at The Baptist Cemetery in Corona, SD.