Harry Werth

Harry was born July 2, 1935 to Victor and Maria Werth in Alpena. He attended Alpena Public Schools graduating in 1953. In 1955, he was part of the second graduating class from Alpena Community College holding an associate degree in Science and entered Naval Aviation training at Pensacola Florida. After preflight ground school and tours at Navel Air Station Saufley, NAS Corry, NAS South Whiting and NAS Barin, he trained as an airship pilot at NAS Glynco, GA. He qualified as an all-weather command pilot in LTA (Lighter Than Air) and HTA (Heavier Than Air) aircraft, single and multi-engine. He then returned to the family business, Werth Electric, where he worked alongside his father as an electrician and electrical/mechanical contractor. Later, he was joined by his sons Brant, Owen and Dane and added commercial refrigeration and air conditioning. His son, Dane carries on the business today. Harry also co-owned and managed the former Ripley Annex building for many years.

Harry was a pillar at St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church for many years and served on various committees throughout his lifetime and was a charter member of the Alpena Public Schools Citizens Advisory Committee for over 25 years. For over 50 years Harry was involved with the Alpena County Fair. He raised sled dogs and competed in races with them for a number of years. He was also an avid antique tractor collector.

Harry leaves behind two daughters, the Rev. Leslie Nye and Juliet (Paul) Kieliszewski and two sons, Owen (Linda Currier) Werth and Dane (Kori) Werth. Grandchildren are Gwyneth and Gillian Nye, Katie (Matt) Elrod and Jared (April) Kieliszewski, Gabrielle (Casey) Boyer, Alexandra (Vikhar Samad) Werth, Victoria (Lucas) Litwinski, Lydia Werth and Avery (Hunter) Werth, and Braedan Werth and Alayna (Brenden) Francis. He also leaves three great-grandchildren, Levi Straley, Cami Kieliszewski and Adele Boyer as well as nephews Tom (Judy), Tim and Mark (Kim) Wegmeyer. Harry was preceded in death by his wife, Sandra (Teeples) after 61 years of marriage, a son, Brant Werth, and his sister and brother-in-law Lucille (Glen) Wegmeyer.

Harry wishes to be remembered as he was in life – as a good friend to all – and requested that no funeral or memorial event take place. He has been sent for cremation. A private graveside service with the immediate family with the Rev. Leslie A. Nye officiating will take place at a later date set by the family. If you wish to make a donation in his memory, please direct it to the Harry V. Werth Electrical Program Support Fund at Alpena Community College. McWilliams Funeral Home has assisted the family.