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Harlan LeRoy Braathen, 72, Minot and formerly of Noonan, died on Tuesday, April 5, 2011 in a Minot hospital.

Harlan was born on September 30, 1938 in Noonan, ND to Halgrim and Marie (Hagen) Braathen. He was reared on the family farm and educated in Noonan. He continued his education at Greer Diesel School in Chicago, IL, where he received specialized training as a mechanic.

Harlan married Florence Cooper on October 7, 1967 in Culbertson, Montana. They made their home in Mohall/Lansford, Grenora, Plentywood, Garrison and Minot where he was employed as a mechanic by John Deere Implement Dealerships in those communities. In addition, he was employed by Cummins Diesel and Butler Machinery in a similar capacity. Following his retirement in 2000 he was employed by Main & Holmes Electric.

Harlan was a member of Christ Lutheran Church and a very active member of the Minot Eagles Aerie #2376 where he served as President and Trustee. He and Florence received the Mr. and Mrs. Eagle Award in 1994. He was a member of the Souris Valley Amateur Radio Club (SVARC) and Take It In The Shorts (TIS) Investment Club. He served as a volunteer at the Norsk Hostfest and RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) and enjoyed Bingo and "surfing" the internet for up-to-date weather news and staying in touch with friends and family.

Harlan's loving family includes his wife of 43 years Florence; children: Angela (Daniel) Hoover of Minot, ND and Justin (Nichole) Braathen of Wausau,WI, grandchildren: Daynen Hoover and Isaiah Braathen and Aubrielle Braathen; sister: Marilee Nelson of Noonan and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Harlan was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral Service: 1:00 p.m. on Monday, April 11, 2011 at Christ Lutheran Church, Minot.
Interment will be in Rosehill Memorial Park.
Visitation: Sunday from noon until 5:00 p.m. in Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.
Family Prayer Service: Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. in Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.