David J. Harding

David J. Harding, of Clarks Summit, died peacefully at home Tuesday. His wife is the former Margaret McDade.

Born Dec. 7, 1930, in Scranton, he was the son of the late Bernard F. and Margaret Reedy Harding. He received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Scranton. After college, he enlisted as a corporal in the United States Army and was deployed overseas to Korea, where he was awarded medals of commendation for his service. Following his tour of duty, he completed his post-graduate work at New York University.

In 1957, he founded the B.F. Harding Adjustment Company and was at the helm until his retirement. He so enjoyed his profession he always claimed to have never worked a day in his life.

Dave served as chairman of the Scranton Parking Authority, president of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick and president of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Claims Association. He served on the boards of both the University of Scranton Purple Club and the Country Club of Scranton.

Dave was a loving husband and father who laughed easily and often. He was admired by those who knew him for his endless patience and fierce loyalty.

He was a member of the Country Club of Scranton from 1960 until his death. An avid golfer and enthusiastic instructor, he reveled in playing regularly with his wife, children, grandchildren and many friends. Dave enjoyed tennis, traveling and the company of those dear to him. Among his favorite places were Lake Ariel, where he spent his earlier years at his family cottage, Elk Lake where he garnered the nickname “Baseball Dave,” as well as Moosic Lakes, Avalon, N.J., and Naples, Fla. He was an avid sports fan throughout his life, faithfully supporting his favorite teams, the Red Sox and the Giants.

He is survived by a daughter, Kim Harding Kelly and her husband, Harry of Clarks Summit, and a son, David R. Harding and his wife, Barbara of Severna Park, Md.; grandchildren, Erin Kelly, Matthew, David and Catherine Harding; sisters, Mary Lou Burne and Karen Motsavage; brothers, Bernard and Michael Harding; several nieces and nephews and a multitude of cousins.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Joan Harding Gavin.

The family respectfully requests that anyone attending the viewing or funeral wear a mask.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday at noon at the Church of St. Gregory, 330 N. Abington Road, Clarks Summit, celebrated by Msgr. Joseph G. Quinn. Friends may call Monday from 10 a.m. to noon in the church. Interment will be at St. Catherine’s Cemetery, Moscow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the donor’s favorite charity.

To share a memory or to express your condolences to the family, please visit www.vanstonandjames.com.