Harry White Gantenbein, age 90, passed away on January 30, 2026. He was born on April 27, 1935, to Wilbur and Frances Bower in Delphos, Kansas. Frances "Pete" later married Ed Gantenbein, who adopted Harry at a young age.
Harry attended school in California, Washington, Kansas, and Hanover, Kansas, where he graduated high school in 1954.
He attended Baker University for one and one-half years, serving as president of his class, before transferring to Kansas State University to study pre-law, graduating in 1958. He then attended the University of Kansas School of Law, graduating on June 5, 1961.
Following law school, Harry worked for Don Noah for one year and Roy Hamilton for three years before opening and operating his own law practice. He practiced law until selling his firm on December 31, 2010, and continued to provide consulting services as needed after retiring.
Harry served two terms as County Attorney and represented USD 273 School District for more than 20 years. He served as City Attorney for Beloit for 10 years and Cawker City Attorney for 8 years. He also represented Jewell Mitchell Electric (REA), First National Bank, Guaranty State Bank, and Farmway Credit Union. Harry had a deep passion for assisting families through the adoption process. His dedication to his clients and community left a lasting impact on all he served.
Harry was a man of great intellect and deep integrity. He possessed a sharp mind and a wonderful sense of humor, making conversations with him both meaningful and enjoyable. He was known for his honesty, thoughtfulness, and genuine care for others, and he lived his life guided by strong principles and unwavering love.
Outside of his work and service, Harry found great joy in the outdoors. He loved hunting and fishing, enjoyed cooking, and thoroughly enjoyed a good card game and the friendly competition it brought. These passions brought him peace and many cherished memories.
Harry proudly served in the National Guard, demonstrating his commitment to his community and country. He was active in the community, serving as an officer in the Elks Club for many years, and was a member of the Presbyterian Church.
Harry married Marge Hazlett on August 12, 1956, in Minneapolis, Kansas, and three children were born to this union.
Above all else, Harry loved his family with everything he had. He took great pride in ensuring his family was cared for and deeply loved. He was devoted, nurturing, supportive, and always eager to share his knowledge, wisdom, and life lessons.
Harry will be remembered for his integrity, his love, and the lasting impact he had on all who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Frances "Pete" Gantenbein; his in-laws, Clarence and Lucille Hazlett; and his brother, Larry Gantenbein.
He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Marge Gantenbein; his children, David (Janice) Gantenbein, Polly Gantenbein, and Liz (John) Francis; his grandchildren, Anne Collingwood, Ellen Collingwood, Braden Francis, Keegan (Tyler) Bailey, and Carissa (Lee) Wigton; his great-grandchildren, Isabell Bailey, Cooper Bailey, Kaiden Bailey, Addison Wigton, and Jonathan Wigton; his brother-in-law, Jack (Kay) Hazlett. Also left to cherish his memory are many close friends and family members who knew and loved him.
Funeral services will be at 10:30 Tuesday, February 10 at the Beloit Methodist Church. Visitation will be from 9 AM to 7 PM, with family present from 5-7 PM Monday, February 9 at the Roberts Family Funeral Home. Memorials may be given to the USD 273 Educational Foundation, the Beloit Presbyterian Church, or the Resident Care Center in care of the funeral home.
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