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IN LOVING MEMORY OF
Harlan Lee
Tomlinson Iii
June 15, 2006 – October 11, 2025
Celebration of Life Services for Harlan Lee Tomlinson III, 19, of Norwalk, who passed away Saturday, October 11, 2025, will be held 11 a.m., Saturday, October 18 at Soteria Church, 3250 SE Soteria Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50265. A Celebration of Life Gathering will take place from 9 to 11 a.m., prior to the service at the church. Please be prepared to share a story of Harlan or a hand written note to share with family. Family also asks that you wear Harlan's favorite color purple. Inurnment will be held in the Calvary Cemetery, Churchville at a later date.
Harlan was homeschooled and earned his diploma in 2024. Throughout his life, he loved and learned about farming. Harlan was a farmer through and through, raising cattle and crops alongside Gordon. He was known for being a "semi-pro tractor driver," a title he wore proudly (and maybe just a little jokingly), because everyone knew how good he really was behind the wheel.
He loved his Cummins motors, chrome stacks, and sharing his world on YouTube, Instagram, and Tik Tok. Quick-witted and always fair, he had a knack for making people laugh and feel at ease. You could count on him for anything — a helping hand, a smart remark, or just good company.
In 2023, he suited up to play football for Winterset, bringing his trademark determination and grit to the field. Whether it was football, farming, or just living life, he gave it everything he had. Harlan was selfless, honest, and hardworking. The kind of person you just don't forget. His family, friends, and community will miss his bright spirit and unforgettable smile. They will carry his laughter, love, and strength in their hearts forever.
Harlan is survived by his parents, Lee and Jennifer; siblings, Ashlee (Jacob) Bratthauer, Gordon Tomlinson, Matthew Tomlinson; niece, Hannah Bratthauer; many aunts, uncles and other family and friends; special friends, Mark and Erin Paschell family and Chris and Missy Endres family. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Lee and Mary Ann Tomlinson, and Gordon and Carol Hanisch.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made that will be used to honor Harlan.
Celebration of Life Gathering
Soteria Church
9:00 - 11:00 am
Celebration of Life Services
Soteria Church
Starts at 11:00 am
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