Carol Harmon, 85, of Belle Fourche, SD, died peacefully at her home on March 18, 2025. Carol was born Dec. 20, 1939, in Madison, WI, to Fred and Molly Koch. The family moved frequently due to her father’s work and Carol attended 5 high schools in 4 years. After graduating from high school, she attended Colorado State University for 2 years where she met Richard Stephan. They were married in 1960 and had 4 daughters.
Carol’s greatest passion from an early age was horses. She loved everything about them and rode whenever she got the chance. She did everything from trail riding in the Rockies to competing in hunter/jumper shows and made sure her daughters became capable horsewomen. Carol was also an artist and painted beautiful watercolor mountain scenes.
A few years after Carol and Dick went their separate ways, she met Bill Harmon in Montana. They married and eventually settled in Belle Fourche, SD, after spending some time in Silver City, NM. Carol very much wanted to be near her grandchildren and watch them grow up. She loved attending their events including dance recitals, music concerts, and competitions at the Butte-Lawrence County Fair. She even bought an upright string bass for the grandkids which James promptly learned to play, joining John in the orchestra. Carol could also be found at nearly every performance—including the slack–of the Belle Fourche Round-up rodeo for several years and was thrilled to watch her granddaughter, Kay, carry the American flag as Miss Rodeo South Dakota.
Carol loved to meet people and was always making new friends wherever she went. She could visit with almost anyone.
Most importantly, Carol was certain that Jesus Christ was her Savior and looked forward to spending eternity in heaven.
Carol is survived by her husband, Bill Harmon, daughters Linda Marrs, Lisa Stephan, Karen Stephan and Jane Stephan, and grandchildren Kay Marrs, James Marrs, and John Marrs.
A private family remembrance will be held at a later date.
Memorials may be made to Rainbow Bible Ranch, Sturgis, SD. 14676 Lone Tree Road, Sturgis, SD 57785. Website, www.rainbowbibleranch.org
Arrangements are under the care of Kline Funeral Chapel of Belle Fourche. An online guest book is available at klinefuneralchapel.com
