Dennis Duane Harwig, Sr.

Dennis Duane Harwig, Sr., 82, of Massillon, passed away on March 24, 2025 at home.

Denny was the first Harwig born in Massillon on June 10, 1942.

He was a 1960 graduate of Washington High School, received his Associate degree in Criminology from Kent State University, and attended The FBI Academy. He served in the United States Navy. Denny joined Massillon Police Department in 1964, retiring as Chief of Police in 1991. He then owned Harwig Bail Bonds and served on Massillon City Council as President. Denny was a member of Divine Mercy Parish, St. Mary's, where he served as the lead usher. He was involved in many local organizations including: The Knights of Columbus, American Legion, VFW, Massillon Lions Club, Massillon FOP, Moose Lodge, and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, and watching all sports. Denny was known for being kind and generous, always willing to help family and friends in need.

Denny is survived by his loving wife, Mary Ann (Jordan) Harwig; Children: Dennis (Jennifer) Harwig, Jr., PhD., LTC John (Monica) Harwig, PhD., US ARMY Retired, Julie Harwig (Scott) Smith, BSBA, RN, and David (Michelle) Harwig; Grandchildren: Kenneth (Kara) Kornowski, Kurt Kornowski, Madeleine (Jestin) Ware, Mitch Harwig, Michael (Toni) Harwig, Anne (Colby) McGinley, Lance (Autumn Maki) Smith, Logan (Heather) Smith, and Ayla Porter; and Great-grandchildren: Hallie, Felicity, Kendrick, Sadie, Hudson, June, Rebecca, and Josie.

He was preceded in death by his Granddaughter, Candice Marie Kornowski; Father, Bernard "Barney" William Harwig; Mother, Doris "Aleen" (Cummins) Hodge; and Siblings: William "Bill" Harwig, Beverly J. Russman, Donald Harwig, Kay J. Smith, Robert "Bob" Harwig, and Cary Paul Harwig.

Visitation will be held Saturday, March 29, 2025, 9:30 am - 12:30 pm at Paquelet & Arnold-Lynch Funeral Home, Massillon, Ohio; followed by a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated by Fr. Edward Gretchko at 1:00 pm at Divine Mercy Parish, St Mary's, and burial in Rose Hill Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Divine Mercy Parish, St. Mary's.

"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called son's of God"

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