March 14, 1946 – January 24, 2022
Harlan (Harley) Edward Pool, age 75, of Buffalo, MN, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2022, surrounded by his loving family. He is now at peace following his courageous battle with Dementia. He touched the lives of so many, he was a bright spark in this world and will be deeply missed.
Harley was born to Ralph & Elane (Theisen) Pool on March 14, 1946, in Minneapolis, MN. He grew up in Rockford, MN where he helped his father and learned the masonry trade. He enjoyed sports and was on the football and basketball teams. Harley and love of his life, Holly (Altringer), were high school sweethearts. They became inseparable and together they shared life’s adventures, business endeavors, family, and their hobbies.
Harley lived a full, faith filled life! He progressed from masonry work to a position with Pako Corp, dedicating 18 years of his hard-working, can-do spirit. Pako closed, and Harley and Holly met life’s challenges by fueling their passion for creating hand-crafted decor and gifts as entrepreneurs. They traveled to fairs and festivals across the US. Later they opened American Hometown Gifts in Becker, MN (16 years), and a Russian Art booth at the MN State Fair (now in its 30th year). Holly continues many of these endeavors to this day.
Anyone that truly knew Harley, knew he had a big heart. He’d give of himself constantly and never expect anything in return. He loved all of life’s simple pleasures. He enjoyed the outdoors, watching birds (especially cardinals and loons), cabin time on MN Island (Leech Lake), fishing and teaching others to fish, hunting, boating, spending time with his family and friends. Harley was the most loving father a family could ask for and the friend you could always count on.
He is survived by his loving wife Holly Pool; Children Jeff Pool (Jeanne Marquette), Heather (Chris) Kalis; Grandchildren, Emma Kalis (Taylor Swart), Mason Kalis, Nick Pool-Hunt; Siblings Dale Pool, Pat (Thom) Flak, Lois (Duane) DesMaris, Ruby Capko, Barb (Gene) Keck. Preceding him in death was his Father and Mother Ralph & Elane Pool, Sister-in-Law Katherine Pool, Sister Karen Beyer, Brother-in-Law Gary Beyer, and Brother-in-Law Don Capko.
We are truly blessed to have received his unending love and care. As a family we look forward to passing on his legacy.
We take comfort in knowing that Harley is now at peace surrounded by light.
Visitation and Funeral will be held at St. Francis Xavier Church, 300 1st Ave NW, Buffalo, MN 55313 on Thursday, February 3, 2022. Visitation from 9:30am – 11am, Mass beginning at 11am with lunch to follow in the church basement.
I remember Harlan and Holly coming to visit my parents. The nicest neighbors. I haven’t seen you for many years but please know I am so sorry for your loss. Blessed be Harlan’s memory.
Harley was a great guy. I had the pleasure of meeting the Pool family when I started babysitting for them (Jeff and Heather you probably don’t remember me). Then during high school I got a chance to work with them in their basement. Hollow Tree Company. I had such a blast with this family. My deepest condolences goes out to you Holly and family.
To Holly and all of Harley’s family,
What a beautiful tribute for a great man!
I came to know Harley in about the middle of his dementia journey as a caregiver. What I came to realize is that Harley gave so much back to me. I loved the way he said his name and can still remember his voice. When I would suggest we take a walk or go and sit outside his answer was always “well sure!”
It bothered him that he couldn’t remember the name for wind gently blowing or sometimes not remembering Holly’s name. She was known as “the mom” on occasion.
Harley was always willing to help me. Whether it was shopping for groceries or holding a little table steady while I chalk painted it, he was a great sport. He used to tease me by calling my chihuahua Patchy by saying “here kitty, kitty.
Though I am saddened that Harley had dementia, I am forever grateful for connecting with his and Holly’s families and the chance to call them my new friends.
Holly & family, I’m so sorry for your loss, but happy in the knowledge that Harley is at peace! What a wonderful man! All who knew him were blessed!
Love to you Holly & family
It was an honor to play high school football with Harley. Harley was one tough ball carrier. He was a gentile giant. Anyone who tackled Harley-always got the worst of it. Harley played hard, but was always humble and kind. God bless Harley and his family. Harley will be missed.
Holly and family, It is with such deep sorrow Jim and I heard Harley had left his earthly home. We have so many wonderful memories of times we spent together at craft shows, helping you at your store and meeting for lunch or dinners. Our love goes out to all of you.
Harley: a great person, friendly, helpful & strong. I remember he laughed easily & he had a wonderful laugh. He loved deeply, his whole family & friends. ♥️ He will be missed by all that knew him. Blessings to the Harley Pool family.🙏🏻🎼🎶💜🕯🎚⛪️
We will miss him , alot of good memories .