Donald Harbeson, 76

DONALD HARBESON, 76, of Elsie, passed away February 14, 2026, at Perkins County Health Services in Grant.

Donald was born April 16, 1949, in Sutherland, Nebraska, to Archie Willard Harbeson and Esther Naomi (Hanson) Harbeson. He attended school in Elsie before entering the United States Navy at the age of 17.

Donald proudly served his country for more than 20 years. During his career in the Navy, he traveled extensively and built a life of discipline and service.

In 1982, Donald married Joan O’Connor in London, England. Shortly after, the couple relocated to Florida for five years before returning to Nebraska following his retirement from the Navy. Serving his country was always something that he was proud of. After spending a year in North Platte, they made their permanent home in Elsie. Their union was blessed with 2 sons, Chris and Paul. 

Calling back to his days as a technician in the Navy, Donald explored various opportunities in this field before settling in as a technician at Eakes Office Sales and Service for nearly 20 years. He was both hard-working and resourceful. 

Donald was an avid fisherman and Husker fan, and he loved to work around the house and to enjoy a good meal.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Willard “Gene” Harbeson and Duane Harbeson.

Survivors include his wife, Joan Harbeson of Elsie; sons, Chris Harbeson (Erica) of Sidney, and Paul Harbeson (Carolynn) of Cheyenne, WY; brother, Earl (Sherri) Harbeson of Los Angeles, CA; sisters-in-law, Joan Harbeson of Elsie, Heidi Harbeson of Los Angeles, CA; niece, Heather; and many other relatives and friends.

A graveside service with Navy Honors will be held at Fort McPherson National Cemetery on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. CT.

Bullock-Long Funeral Home of Grant is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be shared at bullocklongfuneralhome.com.