By Bill Herr

If you live long enough, you will someday meet a person who lives life to the fullest, and then some. I met several residents at Mennonite Memorial Home (MMH) like that when I was chaplain there.

One of them was Harold Lehman. During his short time as a resident, he made a deep impression on me and on all the members of staff and the other residents.

I met him in the dining room on his first day at the Home. He asked me, "Can I say a poem?" I said yes and this is what he said: "Each man spoils the one he loves, and gratifies her wishes. The rich man showers her with gifts, while the poor man does the dishes."

During Harold's time at MMH, he would tell stories and sometimes break into song. He and his wife Beulah had 11 children. One of them is Bluffton resident Louise Matthews. She was (still is) a volunteer at MMH. She would often play the piano while her dad sang a song or played at events at MMH. She said that her parents were married over 44 years. Harold was beloved by his large family (43 grandchildren and 60 great-grandchildren). Some of the family members would visit Harold and put on a musical show for the residents.

Harold was born and raised in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and purchased a farm in New York State when he married. In addition to farming, he worked as a cost estimator, and sold and installed outdoor furnaces. He had strong faith and was active in his church, being the Sunday school worship leader, Bible School superintendent, chorister, and helped with Vacation Bible School. He loved kids. He and Beulah provided foster care for over 100 young people. Harold loved Jesus and enjoyed people, often engaging with storytelling that he incorporated into his roles at church.

I asked Louise what she liked most about her father. She said, "He was very committed to provide experiences for his children to broaden their lives." They traveled a lot, met a lot of people. They provided hospitality to anyone who needed a meal or overnight lodging, especially international travelers. He was always rooting for the underdog, especially for children who didn't have families. He wrote two books about his experiences.

He attended all activities at MMH. At Bible study, he would listen intently, and if he wanted to make a comment, he would raise his hand slightly, like in school. With his Parkinson's Disease, he sometimes had trouble speaking. When he struggled to say what he wanted to, he would smile and say, "Thanks, Mr. Parkinson." He smiled often, and his eyes would beam when he was talking, always with enthusiasm.

The MMH staff loved Harold. One said, "He told the best stories and could make me laugh even if I was having a bad day." Another said, "He had a great sense of humor and was a bit ornery sometimes. One night I asked him if having so many children kept him on his toes. He responded, "Oh no, they kept me on my knees."

Harold Lehman lived life to the fullest for 84 years. His life was a model for kids or adults. He radiated a sense of humor and strong faith. He was always joyful and had a strong work ethic. He was generous and kind. He was memorable and he is missed.