Harold Nehmer

CROSWELL: Harold Albert Nehmer, 96, surrounded by his loving family, passed away suddenly on Friday, November 26, 2010. He was a very humble, hard working ‘gentle’ family man who celebrated life every day as evidenced by his glorious storytelling, humor and kindness. Harold, the youngest of four children, was born on October 7, 1914 in Croswell, Michigan to Martha (Grandy) and Albert Nehmer. Harold married the love of his life, Beverly Jean Pohl on July 20, 1946 at Grace Lutheran Church in Alhambra, California, who went to heaven before him on November 20, 1999. Harold served our nation as a 1st Lieutenant in the 73rd Armored Field Artillery Battalion of the U.S. Army. He was captured at the Battle of the Bulge on December 19, 1944. Harold, as a Prisoner of War, marched under German guard or rode in locked box cars as he was shifted between five German Stalags until April 29, 1945 when he was liberated by the 14th Armored Division. Harold and Beverly lived in Croswell their entire married life where they operated Nehmer’s Jewelry, established by his father Albert in 1919, they raised their five children: Sandra Jean, Carl Albert, Paul John, David Harold and Mark Alan. Harold was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Croswell, serving as both Elder and Deacon. He served his community as an active member of the Croswell Rotary Club, holding the office of treasurer for over 57 years. Harold was also a continuous member of the American Legion, Post 255 for 55 years. Mr. Nehmer was a avid supporter of the Cros-Lex High School Athletics. You would find him in the stands in all kinds of weather, cheering on the Pioneers! Harold was a recipient of the Sanilac County Silver Lining Crystal Award for community service. “Smithsonian” magazine (8/2005) featured Harold’s remembrance of where he was the day ‘World War II ended’. Harold is survived by his loving family: Sandra (Norm) Johnson of Fullerton, CA, their daughter Kathleen (Nicholas) Preston, their daughter Zelda; Carl (Victoria) of Grand Blanc, MI, their sons Mathew (Grace), Michael (Meredith); Paul (Vanessa) of Croswell, MI, their children Shawna (Andy) Emerich, their daughter Payton, James and his son Oliver, Melanie (Jason) Schoen and their daughters Kaylee and Mya; David (Cathy) of Springfield, MO, and their children Christen and Jonathan; Mark & his partner Robert of Washington, D.C. Harold was preceded in death by twin brothers, Alvin and Alton of 18 months, and a sister, Helen Hatfield The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, November 30, 2010 at 11 A.M. at First Presbyterian Church of Croswell, 7 S. Howard Ave., Croswell with Rev. Kenneth Hetzel officiating. Visitation at Pomeroy Funeral Home, Croswell Monday 2 to 9 P.M., and Tuesday 10 – 11 AM at the church. Harold A. Nehmer will be interred at the Croswell Cemetery beside his wife, Beverly. In Lieu of flowers please make memorials to either First Presbyterian Church of Croswell or the Croswell Rotary Club.

Harold Nehmer

October 7, 1914 - November 26, 2010