Harry J. Wasson

Harry Wasson, 75 of Kankakee Illinois passed away on Tuesday the 5th of February from COPD. Harry is survived by son John (Rebecca) Wasson, daughter Rachel Kelly Wasson, stepdaughters Kasi (Troy) Howell, Michelle (Robert) Yohnka, brother Jay (Lee) Wasson, sisters Connie (Scott) Klett and Carla (Wally) Jackson, 12 grandchildren, multiple nieces and nephews and Eillen Keeling, his partner of 29 years, also of Kankakee Illinois. Harry was preceded in death by his parents John and Ilene Wasson, of Eldora Iowa. Harry was a farm boy who loved United States history. He worked for many years managing seed corn plants from 1970 to 1993 in Iowa and Illinois. Harry could talk for hours about corn if you were a willing listener. Harry started his own trucking company which allowed him to visit the many historical sites he had been reading about for years. Later, Eileen was able to join him on the open road. They enjoyed traversing the United states while sampling different local cuisines and culture. They religiously reported back to friends and family all of the beautifully weird and wild things the USA had to offer. Harry prided himself on hard work, accountability and punctuality. In good health, he was never idle. He loved building things, working outdoors and he had a surprising knack for interior design. Harry was a skilled cribbage player, he laughed easily and loved to show off his moves on the dance floor. Harry’s happy place was boating with Eileen on the Kankakee river. Harry loved to fish. Many mornings, you could find he and Eileen pulling in loads of catfish with the rising sun. Harry was a generous man. He would help out family, friends and even acquaintances whenever he could. He did this quietly and without expectation of a return. Harry a.k.a ‘the baby whisperer’ took pride in his ability to soothe a grandchild to sleep. Later in life, he revealed his love for dogs; think John Wayne, but with two poodles. Harry will be missed dearly by those who loved him. He was a loyal man who worked, played and loved with all of his heart and he danced like nobody was watching. Harry will have a celebration of life this Saturday the 8th of February at Jensen Funeral Home, Kankakee Illinois, visitation from 2-3pm and service at 3 pm. Lunch will follow the service at 3:30pm.