Harold Schermerhorn, a man of deep faith and tireless work ethic, went to be with the Lord on Monday, February 16, 2026. He passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his loving wife, Janice, and his family.
Harold was born on August 17, 1933, in Callaway, Minnesota, to Julius and Hannah Schermerhorn. Growing up as one of eleven children, Harold learned the value of family and perseverance early in life. In 1952, he married Delores Brandvold. Seeking better opportunities for his growing family, Harold moved to Rockford, Illinois, in 1954. Together, he and Delores raised three sons: Dean, Leslie, and Troy. Delores later passed away in 1993.
A dedicated provider, Harold spent 27 years working for Goss Printing. Following his time there, he served in the maintenance department at Hononegah High School, where he was a familiar face until his retirement in 1997.
Harold’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. He became a member of the Roscoe United Methodist Church in April 1958 and remained a devoted servant to his church community for nearly seven decades. He was notoriously active on many committees, always willing to lend his hands or his wisdom to the church’s mission.
In 1994, Harold found a wonderful companion in Janice Nielsen, and they shared 32 years of marriage filled with love and family. Harold was a man of many talents and simple pleasures. He loved his gardens and was a skilled woodworker who spent countless hours building birdhouses and solving puzzles. He was the heart of family reunions and cherished every moment spent with his children and grandchildren. His legacy of kindness, craftsmanship, and devotion to the Lord will be remembered by all who knew him.
He is survived by his wife, Janice; his sisters, Cora Crow and Sharon Rock; his three sons, Dean (Patti), Leslie, and Troy (Larane) Schermerhorn; and his daughter, Lisa Paris. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Stacy (Chris) Bunton, Cara Kamholz, Jesse Schermerhorn, Preston (Annie) McDonald, Cortney (Jerrod) Storlie, Carissa, Trenton, and Misty Schermerhorn; 15 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; and an abundance of nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Harold was preceded in death by his brothers, Myrl and Dale; his sisters, Blanche, Darlene (Dolly), June, Janice, Elaine, and Delores (Dee); and his granddaughter, Crystal Schermerhorn.
The family would like to offer a special thanks to Dr. Esfandnia, Cortney Storlie, and many family and friends for their support and love.
A celebration of Harold’s life will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Roscoe United Methodist Church. Visitation will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Ryan Sutton officiating. Friends and family are invited to a luncheon at the church immediately following the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Roscoe United Methodist Church in Harold’s honor.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Harold L. Schermerhorn, please visit our floral store.