A. ‘Doc’ Harkins

“Doc” Harkins passed May 19, 2022.

He was born Dec. 13, 1940, in Orange County, California, and was raised in Golden, Colorado, with his younger brother, Dennis. Both brothers attended Cal Farley’s Boy’s Ranch in Texas.

Doc enlisted in the U.S. Army and was active from 1958 to 1961 and served in missile silo facilities. His favorite post was in Alaska. Doc attended Metropolitan State College and pursued surgical technician and law enforcement careers. Doc “scrubbed in” on some of the first kidney transplants performed. While in school, Doc was an ambulance attendant and volunteer sheriff’s Jeep Patrol / Search and Rescue unit member. Doc was appointed deputy sheriff in Colorado in 1970 and transferred to Flathead County Sheriff’s Office in 1975 and retired in 2002. Doc was an instructor at the Montana Law Enforcement Academy and Kalispell Police Commissioner.

Doc held many distinguished offices in Masonry and its appendant bodies. Doc was Grand Master of Montana in 2003, Past Supreme Guardian Council for Job’s Daughters and recipient of Rose Croix (33rd degree) Scottish Rite.

Doc was a true rarity; a stranger to none, loved by many, friend to most — and an all-around nice guy.

Doc is survived by his son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren. All proudly continue the name Harkins.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Haven Hospice: www.beyourhaven.org. These folks provide exceptional care and comfort to him and helped his entire family navigate through a tough time.

An outdoor service is planned from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 23 at Fairview Cemetery. Hats are encouraged.

Doc’s personal hats and assorted T-shirts and mementos are available for a requested donation for a local family. Please give generously in memory of Doc!