Harry I Eliason

Heaven ushered in a hero of the faith on May 18, 2026. Harry Irving Eliason, 85, surrounded by

his family was welcomed to his forever home by his Lord and Savior after a courageous but

swift battle with cancer.

Harry was born in Duluth, MN on December 23, 1940 to parents Walter and Elida Eliason. He

was the 7th of 9 children. He graduated from Duluth Denfeld High School in 1959. In 1967 along

with James Daly they opened their business, Lakehead Clutch and Brake, where they helped

the community brake safely and run smoothly. He retired in 2003 and yet he never really retired.

Up until a month and a half before his death he still worked 1 ½ days a week alongside his sons

where he continued to share his wisdom, not only in the rebuilding of clutches and brakes but in

living a life of integrity. Harry was a part of the local dirt track racing community. He was

affectionately known as Horse Power Harold for his expertise in building race car engines for his

brother’s, son’s, and grandson’s cars and was looking forward to the next generation of racing

with his great grandson.

In January of 1961 Harry married the love of his life, Judith Peterson. Together for 65 years they

built a life rooted in faith and family. The love of God and family was the theme in Harry’s life,

starting with the strong relationships he had with his siblings, especially his brothers. That family

bond was strengthened even more as he and Judie raised 4 children and then went on to love

and adore 11 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. His family was the joy in his life.

Harry attended Faith Baptist Church in Hermantown, MN where he walked out his faith in the

saving grace of Jesus Christ each and every day. He was proceeded in death by his son Todd,

his parents and parents in law Arnold and Lillian Peterson, his siblings, Gordy, Viola, Eleanor,

George, Jim, John and Roger and many extended family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Judie, daughter Kelly Smith (Bob), sons, Tim (Ann) and Troy (Sam).

His 11grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren, his remaining sibling Margaret Ripley and

many extended family members. He will be greatly missed but what he taught us in faith and

family will live on as we honor in our lives the man we loved and looked up to. Now enter into

your rest good and faithful servant.

A service to honor Harry will be held on Friday, May 22 at Faith Baptist Church in Hermantown

MN. 5692 Maple Grove Road Hermantown MN 55811. Visitation will begin at 2pm with a service

to follow at 5pm. Dinner and fellowship will follow immediately after the service at the church.