Obituaries
Mike Harland
September 22, 1948 - December 4, 2022


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VISITATION
December 9, 2022 | 3-8:00 P.M. -
Yurs Funeral Home
405 East Main Street
St. Charles, Illinois - Funeral
- December 10, 2022 | 10:00 A.M.
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Congregational United Church of Christ
40W451 Fox Mill Blvd
St. Charles, Illinois -
Burial Location
Private
Mike Harland, age 74, of St. Charles passed away Sunday, December 4,2022 at his home.
He was born September 22, 1948, in Royal Oak, Michigan to Alfred and Mary Harland.
Mike Harland was an amazing, loving, and caring husband to his wife Jane, and his son, Griffin.Mike Harland was Judson’s 1969-70 Male Athlete of the Year; Mike was a four-year starter for the men’s basketball program. Mike was a pioneer in the building process of Judson basketball. He is one of just five players to have recorded 1,000 career points and 1,000 career rebounds. He averaged 12.4 points per game, leading to 1,265 career points and 10.3 rebounds per game for a total of 1,048 career rebounds. Mike was inducted into the Judson’s University Hall of Fame in 2007. He graduated from Judson in 1970 with an Elementary Teaching Degree. He then started teaching fifth grade at Kings Row Elementary for five years. Mike took a year off from teaching to be a traveling musician. He returned to teaching in 1976 at Glenbrook Elementary School in Streamwood, IL. He will always be remembered for the annual musicals he directed with his sixth-grade students. He later retired in 2005. Mike coached boys’ varsity basketball at Streamwood High School from 1883 through 1986 and St. Edwards High school from 1995 through 2005. in Elgin, IL. He then volunteered his time helping coach alongside his former player at Kaneland High School. Mike started working in the Deans office at St. Charles East High School in 2011. He began coaching with the girls’ basketball program at East High School in 2015. Mike impacted so many students’ lives at East High School and instantly became family. Jane joined working alongside him at East from 2015 to the present. Mike was an usher with the Kane County Cougars from 2006 to the present. Jane and Griffin joined him, and it became a family affair. Griffin would feed you; Jane would get you drunk, and Mike would guide you to your seat. The Kane County Cougars are family. Mike was an avid gardener and loved being outside. He loved riding his bike and traveled 100s of miles. He completed 2 Harmon 100s, riding in honor of his college friend. Mike loved woodworking completing many projects including refinishing, refurbishing, and redesigning. He loved his church and volunteered many hours.
He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Jane, his son, Griffin, a brother, Dennis, two sisters, Cyndi (Darl) Pollock and Annie Wright.
He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, Gary, Alfie and Doug and a sister, Sandy.
Visitation will be 3-8:00 P.M., Friday, December 9th at Yurs Funeral Home, 405 East Main Street, (corner of Rt. 64 and Rt. 25), St. Charles. Funeral service will be 10:00 A.M., Saturday, December 10th at Congregational United Church of Christ, 40W451 Fox Mill Boulevard, St. Charles. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Charles East High School, where a memorial fund has been established in his memory or to the family for Griffin’s continuing education.
Condolences
Katherine. Wagner (Wardzala) from Lakewood, CO
"Very sorry to hear about Mr. Harland’s passing. I have very fond memories of him from Glenbrook. Sending my condolences to his family."
Cindy Bellendir-Storino from Mokena, IL
"This is so sad to hear of Mr. Harlan’s passing.Mr. Harland was my 6th grade teacher back in the 80’s. He made such a huge impact on my life My parents were going through a divorce and my life was flipped upside down. He took some extra time and taught me how to play basketball. While I was never very good at the game, basketball was an outlet for me that brought laughter and new friends into my life when life at home wasn’t always great.He was one of the reasons I am a teacher today. One thing we do as teachers, is reflect on teachers that made a difference in our lives. Mr. Harland was truly one of the best."
Bill Landen from Lakeland , FL
"I worked with Mike for many years at the Kane County Cougars ballpark. We had many laughs with a few serious conversations. Always a prince of a guy! Peace be with you, and thanks for being my friend. Just Plain Bill"
Stephen (Steve) Kimery from Sycamore, IL
"Reflecting upon Mikes life, he lived his life in a manner that was admired by everyone. He loved his wife and son combined with his love of Christ and the principles of his Christian faith. It was a life taken way to soon.Mike was a four year letterman in basketball at Judson College. The team in his junior season was selected as the best team in the school’s history. That team was coached by Jerry Smith. The entire team individually has been recognized as Hall of Fame members. Mike was a team player and a fierce competitor around the basket. He still holds the single game rebounding record. It was my privilege to have coached Mike during his senior season. He was the ultimate team player.Mike volunteered to act in manner of alumni services to coordinate activities for the college in the pioneer days. He was always ready to help and serve.For years Mike would call me monthly and ask “How are you doing Coach? Need any help around your house?” I could always count on Mike for anything I might need. Mike cared for people and always paid tribute to those individuals who had influenced his life. Together we attended funeral services of college professors and student colleagues that had passed. To Mike’s family and all who knew him, Mike left us all with beautiful memories. May we all cherish these memories and hold them close our heart.My deepest sympathy.Steve Kimery"
Paul Beyer from Gladwin, MI
""I want to convey my deepest sympathy and prayers to the family of my friend and college teammate, Mike. When I listened to the voice-mail yesterday from Coach Kimery, I was stunned. Some people just seem larger than life and to me Mike was just that person. Mike played great basketball, but more importantly, in the game called life, he was an even better person. We were both Michigan boys, and although he was a junior and I was just a freshman, Mike quickly became a trusted friend and over time was the big brother I never had. It is not a surprise, as I read other's comments, that the young Mike that I knew would go on to be such a great teacher. coach, husband, father and man. May flights of angels carry you to a much deserved rest with our Lord. Paul Beyer"
Denise Beiermann from Stillwater , MN
"I am devastated by the loss of such a wonderful person. Our thoughts are with Jane and Griffin. I wish I could be there to help in some way...to sing him to heaven."
Kathleen Westman from Elburn, IL
"Richard and I send our deepest condolences to Jane and Griffin. We will miss his tremendous laugh and sense of humor. He was a person we all admired as he lived his life so lovingly well."
Brian, Rebecca, and Meredith Reber from South Elgin, IL
"We are so, so sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. His friendly, warm and welcoming spirit will live on in our memories. Our deepest sympathies to Jane and Griffin."
Linda and Bob Matson from Hampshire , IL
"We are so saddened by your loss of your beloved husband, father and friend. Mike will be so missed. You are in our thoughts and prayers!"
James S Triner from Batavia, IL
"I was very saddened and sorry to hear of Mike's passing. I had the fortunate opportunity to meet and know Mike while working at the Kane County Cougars. He always had a welcoming smile and a kind word. We often talked and teased each other while at the games, which I will miss very much next season. My deepest sympathies go out to Jane and Griffin. Rest in Peace Mike."
Janna Blowers from Elburn, IL
"I am very sorry for your loss of your husband."
John Petrakis from Channahon, IL
"Mr. Harland was my 6th grade teacher at Glenbrook Elementary in Streamwood. He was old school, held you accountable, and was not afraid to put you where you needed to be when you did not make the right decisions. But he was also a humble and caring teacher. One of the teachers you look back on a thank goodness you met him along your journey. God Bless you Mr. H. May you your legacy live in all of your 6th graders hearts."
Fritz and Randalynn Gloege from Fort Myers, FL
"It was with great sadness that we heard of Mikes passing. Mike was always so kind and thoughtful at church. He and Jane were part of our church family and always greeted everyone with a smile. He will be missed by everyone that knew him."
Dave Abhalter from Naperville, IL
"I am truly heartbroken to hear of Mike’s passing. He was an amazing person and was loved and respected by so many….young and old. My sincere condolences, Hugs and Love to Jane and Griffin. May Our Lord’s Peace be with you and yours."
Sue Prigge from St. Charles, IL
"Sincere condolences to you Jane and Griffin. Brett and I remember Mike fondly as being such a kind and compassionate person. His energy and enthusiasm for life was contagious. Our deepest sympathy."
Jane Besch from Elgin, IL
"Our condolences to Jane and Griffin. Mike was an amazing man and a great teacher. We all loved it when he could sub for us after he retired. He was really a wonderful person."
Marget Wincent from Heath, TX
"Dear Jane and Griffin, We share your loss of such an exceptional and loving servant. Mike was a friend to Zach and we remember their warm exchanges at church. This was the year God called them home, where their souls are eternal. We send our love."
Dennis Harland from Crestview, FL
"Jane and Griffin your loss is a great loss to all that knew Mike and would have been blessed by knowing him for many more years. He took such great care of the body God provided him, he should have outlived us all. So many special memories of my big brother, he was my hero growing up, his many talents made him bigger than life to me. Basketball, tennis, bicycling, guitar, congas, acting, singing, carpentry, and his and Jane's amazing gardening talents, but most of all his love of being a husband and father. Can't wait to get to heaven so I can feed you the ball to make your Harland Hook Shot even more perfect!"
Rich Shuck from Park Forest, IL
"I saw Mike,my teammat,at our 50th reunion. We hada chance to stroll memory lane. He was a good ball player,and a better man."
Marc and Kim Branca from Grand Rapids, MI
"Jane and Griffin-we heard of Mike's passing and are so very sorry! Mike was such a wonderful, positive and caring man. May God bless you and give you peace at this difficult time."
Alan Jorzak from Sycamore , IL
"I remember well Mr. Harland, as my 6th Grade Teacher at Glenbrook Elementary. He was tough, but also caring, in pushing students to grow in their education but also in maturity, and to look forward to middle and high school opportunities. He worked with me in his production of Alice and Wonderland on how to capture the audience. Yet also, to enjoy some of natures beauty in the 6th grade camping trip. My sincere condolences to his family."
Mandy Sullivan from Denver, CO
"My prayers are with your family at this time. When asked about my favorite teachers growing up, Mr Harland and Glenbrook Elementary School is always on my list. I believe I still have video of our 6th grade play."
Matt Ulrich from Bozeman , MT
"Mr. Harland was my 5th and 6th grade teacher and a great inspiration to a young man who needed a strong male figure after his dad split. As a fellow big guy, I always found his sports stories inspiring (especially his hook shot story). They fueled me to work hard for years to come and opened doors for me I never thought possible. I’m grateful for the life lessons he taught us in the classroom, during softball games, at camp Edwards, via school fundraisers (selling Michael Jordan candy bars), and through the Glenbrook School musicals (Once Upon a Shoe and Alice in Wonderland). My condolences to Jane and his family from Montana. Best, Matt Ulrich"
Edie Saunders from Royal Oak, MI
"Jane and Griffin, I am heartbroken for you both. Mike was apart of the Craig cousins that numbered 36. Our grandmother Craig and the Harland’s grandma lived about a mile apart and sometimes this large family of ours crisscrossed between…sometimes I don’t think we knew which one we were really related to! Mike was such a special person, one his cousins were always happy to be around. This has been a difficult couple of weeks, with losing my brother Kevin and now Mike. All I can say, there is one heck of a Craig/Harland/Hoemke/Maylone/Brazeau reunion going on! Rest In Peace, my dear cousin. Edie (Hoemke) Saunders"
David Stevens from Aurora, CO
"I was saddened to hear of the passing of my old friend and colleague, Mike Harland. Mike and I taught fifth grade together at Kings Road Elementary School way back in the early 1970s. We'd very often ride share to school each day sharing many thoughts and laughter. Mike was a very creative teacher and, to my good fortune, brought me into many of his creative activities with the kids, including theatrical productions. Mike and I graduated together from Judson in 1970 and shared a love of teaching for a few years. Although I went on to the corporate world, I envy Mike's passion for teaching and his devotion to the cause of education all these many years."
Tammy (Kaleta) Gordon from Bartlett, IL
"I am so sorry to hear about Mr. Harland's passing. I have many great memories of him from my time at Glenbrook. He was an amazing teacher. He was literally and figuratively larger than life to me. 6th grade was such an amazing experience because of him! He opened my mind to many experiences that a lot of kids that age don't get! I can remember going to camp Timberlee and him playing the guitar and singing by the fire. His dedication to the yearly plays he'd put on was nothing short of incredible. My 6th grade year we performed Dr. Doolittle! It was fantastic! We learned about hard work and preparation. It was the best experience. Mr Harland could be loud and scary no doubt, but he was also gentle and caring. He had an ability that many try to achieve. His spirit will love long in all of his students. Matt he test in peace."
Betsy Serna from Gilbert , AZ
"Jane and Griffin I am so very sorry to hear about Mikes passing. My thought and prayers for you both in this difficult time."
Masi Siddiqui from St Charles, IL
"My prayers are with Mike and his family, I got to know Mike this year and he was one of the kindest, loving, and happy people I have ever seen. We used to have meaningful conversations and he always had a smile on his face. His dedication to education and students has inspired me and many other people, and he is someone so special and will never be forgotten. Words can't describe how sorry I am for your loss. We at St. Charles East High School would like to send Mike's family our deepest condolences. Without a doubt, he will be missed by everybody."
Jim Reinecke from Rogers, AR
"I regret the missed opportunities to visit Mike the few times I returned to the St Charles area. Mike taught both my sons, Christopher and Michael, sixth grade math. I was afforded the opportunity to assist Mike with his meticulous eye for detail on Glenbrook Elementary School play sets. As a sought after producer, Mike also directed plays for the Elgin Community Theater where I learned even more from him. My heart goes out to Jane and son. He will be surely missed."
Nikki Daily (Cain) from Dallas, TX
"Words can not even begin to express how I feel. Mr. Harland was an amazing man and I’m lucky to have known him. I “grew up” with Glenbrook musicals. A few years before I was even a student there, my family helped build the sets and put in endless hours helping anyway we could as my brother was a student two years ahead of me. This became an annual family tradition from Snow White in the mid 90s to the very last Wizard of Oz. My hands were the handprints of the walls of the Annie orphanage. I learned early on never question the vision he had because when he has his paint sprayer full of brown paint, sprays the walls and tells you to go put your hands all over to make it look dirty… you went with it because he was a visionary. He showed me how to shape foam and make it look like stones for a wall. He taught me how to make something that is new, look aged. The man built a shoe you could live in. A SHOE! And bridges… he loved having a bridge in his sets. Every year he and I took our annual Portillos run during set build, a time just he and I had to talk and catch up on life. He listened to anything I said as a kid throughout high school. Even after my senior Prom, I was back at Glenbrook that night working on the set because that was tradition. Mr. Harland showed us what hard work was and the beautiful result of it. He was tough on us, but those that benefited I know look back and are extremely thankful for it. He wanted kids to see and be the best version of themselves because he saw what they didn’t see. I will be forever thankful for the lessons he taught. As a young kid, watching the love he had for Jane… that’s the stuff fairy tales are made of.I was part of a small group that sang this song for his family when I was in 6th grade….And He will raise you up on eagles' wings Bear you on the breath of dawn Make you to shine like the sun And hold you in the palm of His handYou will be greatly missed sir. Thank you for everything you taught us. We are better for it."
Mary Raleigh from Sycamore, IL
"Dear Jane and Griffin, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your beloved husband and father, Mr. Harland. He was my son's (Andy) sixth grade teacher and he was an amazing, dedicated teacher. Mr. Harland was always known for his play productions at Glenbrook. I know lots of Glenbrook students will return to the school to help build the scenes, including my son, while attending Loyola University. But most importantly Mr. Harland will be remembered by my family, when Andy was headed to service in the army, he and his wife came to our house to wish farewell. You will never be forgotten, and may his memory be eternal."
Paula Potocki from St. Charles, IL
"Mike was certainly one of those people who will leave a lasting impact on every person he came in contact with. What an amazing life he led. He is the embodiment of goodness, kindness and love that Our Lord knows we are capable of. Mike will be missed, but never forgotten, as he will live on in all of the people's lives he changed for the better. Knowing Mike, he will continue to watch over all of us. Sending love and prayers to Jane and Griffin."
Daniel Carlson from Erie, CO
"Jane, I am very sorry and my heartfelt condolences to you and your family upon hearing of Mike’s passing."
Justin Behrman from Sedona, AZ
"Mr. Harland was my 6th grade math teacher at Glenbrook Elementary School. He was such an inspirational figure in my life with his ability to balance teaching, lunch supervision (those softball games were legendary!), and of course the 6th grade musical. As a fellow educator I find myself on a daily basis “what would Mr. Harland do in this situation”?On top of all that, he would always take time to check in with me and ask how things were going. I will never forget those conversations and am eternally grateful for his presence.He will certainly be missed ❤️🙏🏼"
Jason Rutkowski from Bloomingdale, IL
"So sad to hear of Mr. Harland’s passing. He was my 6th grade teacher at Glenbrook and I have very fond memories of him. The 6th grade musical is what made me fall in love with theatre and I will always be grateful."
Nikki Minervini-Wallace from Lakeland , FL
"Mr. Harland was an amazing teacher and an awesome director! Those 6th grade plays were a lot of work and he always put on an amazing show! This is very sad to hear and I am sending my condolences to his family."
Eli Brottman from Chicago, IL
"I had the pleasure of regularly seeing Mike around the halls all 4 years of my high school career. He could always put a smile on my (and everyone else's) face and cared deeply about the students. My condolences to the Harland family."
Mark R. Smith from Addison, IL
"I just arrived home after attending the wake for my 6th grade teacher, Mr. Harland, and it was a truly moving experience. As I waited in line for over 3 hours (and I arrived early), It was obvious the incredible impact he had on the lives of so many. Mr. Harland was one of the most amazing people I have ever known. In his role as a teacher, coach, and friend, he managed to touch the lives of thousands of students, myself included, in a way that I believe few people are ever able to do. Mr. Harland had a profound impact on the lives of the students he taught and the countless organizations he was a part of. He was kind, compassionate, and real! He was my first basketball coach, creative influence, and lifestyle role modle. Running into some old friends (Jeff, Jen, Tommy) at the wake made this afternoon even more special and unequivocally proved the positive influence Mr. Harland had on so many. Observing the many families, students, and friends this evening is a testament to the true power of one amazing person to make a difference in the world. Mr. Harland was (and is) larger than life, and his legacy will live on through the thousands of lives he touched as a teacher, friend, coach, role modle, father, and husband. Lastly to Jane (Jane Harland) & Griffin. I can only imagine the fog of the moment. As heartbreaking as this day had to have been, I hope at some point down the road you can reflect on what an amazing person Mr. Harland (Yes ... I will never call him "Mike") was and is. If the average person has even 1% the impact he has had... they would have immensely succeed in life. I am forever grateful to have had him as a teacher and role model, as he shaped (without ever knowing) so many aspects of the person I am today.Mr. Harland - THANK YOU"
Art Youkerd from Saint Charles, IL
"My deepest condolences to Jane, Griffin and the rest of the family. Mike was such a kind man and always had a smile on his face. We will miss him at the ballpark but cherish all the memories with him."
Craig Brueske from St. Charles, IL
"Shocked and saddened to hear of Mike's passing. Deepest condolences to his wife, Jane, and their son, Griffin. Mike was one of the nicest, down-to-Earth guys I have ever met. Always enjoyed and will remember our times talking while working the outfield at Cougars games and seeing him at St. Charles East girls basketball games. May he rest in Peace."
Kathy Heikkinen from Batavia, IL
"I taught Orchestra at Glenbrook, and was always impressed with not only Mike's teaching but also with the way he connected with the students. I remember how excited he was when producing "Annie" that he and his wife would be adopting soon as well. I'm sorry to hear of his passing, way too soon."
Aubrie Sloan from Rolling Meadows , IL
"I am sad to hear about the passing of Mr Harland. He was my sixth grade teacher at Glenbrook Elementary in Streamwood, and one of my favorite teachers of all time. He was a little hard on us, but as I got older, I understood why. He wanted to see us succeed in life and he ended up making a huge impact in my life. He was a lot of fun as well. For recess, if the weather allowed it, we’d be out playing softball in the field. I will never forget him. I wish I could have told him how much he meant to me while he was still with us, but I hope he knows now. My deepest condolences. My prayers are with you this holiday season. Rest in peace, Teach."
Dan Klinkhamer from St Charles, IL
"Worked with Mike many years at the Cougars. He was a true gentleman in every aspect. An excellent ambassador for the team ,his positive energy was contagious and he touched many thousands of lives of fans and coworkers there. He will be missed greatly!"
Katie B. from West Dundee, IL
"So sorry to hear of Mr. Harland's passing. Mike was my 6th grade teacher in the late 70's and brought all of his talent to work with him. An amazing artist, and director Mike was such a gifted human being. Condolences to his family."
Michele & Jason from North Aurora, IL
"Mike had a passion for education, athletics and life. He lived his life with dignity and pride. We are lucky to have met him and know his spirit will live on with ALL who had the pleasure of meeting him. Respectfully - Michele Brown & Jason Lawrence"
Sue Welu from Elgin, IL
"I just heard of Mike’s passing and am sending my condolences to Jane and Griffin. Mike was a wonderful person, having a zest for life that was not matched by others. I am a better person for knowing him and saying I was a friend. RIP, Mike."
Mike Porten from Elgin, IL
"Mike Harland was a wonderful man and I am very sorry to hear about his passing. He was my 6th grade teacher and one that I will never forget. I'll never forget the effort that he put into his yearly plays, his dedication, and just how much he cared for us, his students.I had the pleasure of seeing him and talking to him outside of school, right when he became a father. I will never forget the joy and excitement in his face knew just how much he loved baby (at the time) Griffin.Mike Harland left the world better than when he entered it. That is the greatest compliment that I can possibly pay to anyone. He will be missed and I'm grateful to have known him."
Virginia Halling from Bowling Green, KY
"Dearest Jane and Griffin, I have just learned about Mike passing (June 2023). I will keep you both in my prayers."
Derek Sutherland from Campton Hills, IL
"Dear Jane and Griffin - we just found out about Mikes passing and our hearts break. Sending love your way. My wife and I last saw Mike and Jane on a walk on the Great Western not too long before his passing and Mike was his usual pleasant and funny self. I have so many great memories of the few years that I was able to coach basketball under Mike or as a competing team. Looks like he lived an amazing life and was well liked and respected by all. I am honored to have met you Mike. RIP."
DOUGLAS SPIHER, LMD from Green Valley, AZ
"To the family & friends of Mike: Sorry for being so late on this but just discovered Mike had died. My wife & I were passing thru Grayling, Michigan in September 2024. I decided that I was going to look him up when we returned home. Each time we passed thru Grayling thru the years, I would remember staying in his old stomping grounds & canoeing down the river when we were at Judson together late 1960's. He was a great Judson basketball player. However, I remember most his mild & humble personality, a big guy but very gentle. Nothing new here to those who knew him well.As time went on, I left Judson & went on to pursue a career in healthcare. I do regret not making the effort & taking the time to look him up during the last 25 years passing thru Grayling to our summer place in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. I do look forward to seeing him again in the resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:26, John 5: 28-9)."