Harley Fuerstenau

Harley V. Fuerstenau, age 71 of Chippewa Falls, was born to Vernon and Hannah Fuerstenau of Hazel, SD on April 13, 1953. He was baptized on May 10, 1953 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Watertown, SD. He grew up on a rural farm and was raised in a Christian home where he learned of Christ's saving grace and confirmed his faith on June 18, 1967 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Watertown, SD.

As an adult Harley continued to demonstrate a strong work ethic and use his gifts to the fullest. He was well known for his mechanical mind and ability to build or fix anything. He became a talented home builder and an experienced heavy equipment operator. He spent many years working as a foreman installing sewer and water lines throughout much of the Chippewa Valley. He later worked as a supervisor for the City of Eau Claire Street Department from which he retired. He also enjoyed many hobbies including gardening, building model trains, and wood working. He used his carpentry skills to build dressers, cradles, toy trains, etc. often for others. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle, but loved flying a plane.

Harley showed his love for the Lord and others by serving those around him. He volunteered as the head of the building and grounds committee for many years where he managed the maintenance needs of the church and grade school. He remodeled several homes on the high school and college campus. He was available to be on call for maintenance emergencies that needed his expertise. He gladly assisted many church members, friends, and family members with their own home projects.

As a father and grandfather, Harley came up with creative ways to have fun and new adventures. He loved playing pool volleyball, boating, water skiing, and fishing. He never shied away from lighting off fireworks, water balloon fights, pranks, playing games, etc. He was the king of Pinochle and cribbage. He loved spending time with family and especially his grandchildren.

Harley is survived by his children: Lisa Jacobson, Lori Mueller, Amy Raith, all of Eau Claire, Rick (Annalee) Fuerstenau of Chippewa Falls; grandchildren: Jonah, Isaiah, Mykah, Niyah, Myrah, Madilyn, Bailey, Nora, Makenzie, Alarik, Adalena, Emmalyn, Olivia; brother: David Fuerstenau; sister: Juanita Maurice; brother-in-law: William (Bill) Heisel; nieces and nephews; and many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife: Judy Beebe; and sister: Elizabeth (Liz) Heisel.

Harley found great comfort in knowing that because of the grace of God he would receive eternal life. Ephesians 2:8-9 "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; or is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast".

Memorial services will be at 11am on Saturday, November 30, 2024 at Messiah Lutheran Church with a light lunch following. Visitation at the church will be held one hour prior to the service.

Cremation Society of Wisconsin, Altoona is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.cremationsociety-wi.com.