Harlan Gerald DeJong, 78, of Springfield, passed away on July 23, 2026. He was born on August 30, 1947, in Springfield to a loving family who helped shape the hardworking, generous, and faithful man so many came to know and love. Harlan passed away Thursday, July 23 at Avera Sacred Heart Hospital in Yankton. 

Harlan graduated from Springfield High School in 1965 and soon after began serving in the Army National Guard. He proudly served for the next ten years. On September 22, 1967, he married the love of his life, Frances Bussey. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and farming, and were blessed with three children: Dennis, Dean, and their beautiful daughter, Dena. 

Harlan attended Southern State Teachers College in Springfield while working as a carpenter. His craftsmanship continued to grow throughout his life, and he took great pride in building beautiful furniture and cabinetry for family members. In 1973, he began farming alongside his family, a calling he deeply cherished. He considered it a privilege to spend his days watching the weather, reading crop reports, and praying for God's grace to bless each harvest. It is safe to say a few prayers were also offered for machinery that would keep running. Faith was the foundation of Harlan's life. He was a lifelong member of Emanuel Reformed Church, where he faithfully served as both an elder and a deacon. His quiet devotion to God was reflected in the way he lived, worked, and cared for others. 

When he wasn't working, Harlan loved to travel. He and Fran enjoyed many cross-country adventures by motorcycle and RV, creating memories that lasted a lifetime. Among their favorite trips were visits to family stationed at various Naval bases. Together they were also fortunate to explore Europe, Ireland, and Canada. Harlan also appreciated traveling in style. Over the years, he owned and meticulously maintained several classic cars and Harley-Davidson motorcycles. His family treasures countless memories of cruising together in the convertibles he loved so much. During the winter months, he could often be found in his shops, doing a new woodworking project or restoring another vehicle. Hunting down that one elusive part became a favorite pastime—though installing it often resulted in another scrape, bruise, or story to tell. 2 Timothy 4:7 "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." Harlan was preceded in death by his parents, Herb and Jessie (Vanderlei) DeJong, and his grandson, Jacob Allen DeJong. He is survived by his beloved wife, Frances; his children, Dennis (Candi) DeJong and their children, Travis and Ashley (Joe) McTrusty; Dean (Christa) DeJong and their children, Jacob, Jason (Emily), Rachael, and Riley; and Dena (Jim) Schuurmans and their children, Jimmy (Elyssa) and Logan. 

One of Harlan's greatest blessings was spending time with his great-grandchildren, Rennick and Ruxyn Schuurmans. He is also survived by his siblings: Don (Cheryl) DeJong, Diann (Dave) Habicht, Keith (Denise) DeJong, Karen (Brent) Reissig, Robert (Betty) DeJong, and Kevin (Tonia) DeJong. While Harlan loved farming, classic cars, motorcycles, and traveling, nothing brought him greater joy than his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He cherished every opportunity to spend time with them, and the love he had for his family was evident in all that he did. His family is deeply grateful for the years they shared with Harlan. His kindness, faith, work ethic, and unwavering love have left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him. Though he will be greatly missed, his legacy lives on through his family and the many lives he touched. 

In keeping with Harlan's wishes, there will not be a traditional funeral service. Instead, a celebration of his life will be held at a later date for family and close friends. Additional details will be announced when they become available.