Submitted by his Wife
Harold V. Taylor
Central Warren County Fire Protection District – Illinois
Classification: Volunteer
Rank: Assistant Chief
Date of Death: January 26‚ 2006
Age: 65
This is just a glimpse into the life of Harold Vernon Taylor. The following words can only begin to describe the depth of the impact that he had in the lives of those he knew‚ loved‚ and those he never met. Harold never met a stranger. He always saw people he didn’t know as friends he hadn’t made yet. He especially loved and enjoyed being around his family. When Harold came into my life‚ he unselfishly included me and all of my family as his own. This came to include many ‘rug rats’ and ‘curtain climbers‚’ as Harold lovingly referred to the little ones.
There was one phrase of his that we all still chuckle about. If someone asked Harold for any kind of advice or help‚ his reply was always‚ ‘Why‚ certainly.’
When it came to the fire department‚ he put his heart and soul into it. He‚ along with his fellow fire fighters‚ dedicated his time and energy organizing soup suppers or pancake dinners to raise funds. These funds made sure that the Cameron Fire Department was well-maintained and equipped. The fundraisers became a tradition that brought families and friends together to create a strong community bond. The best tradition‚ however‚ was the 4th of July fireworks show that the fire department put on. This celebration included a tractor pull‚ an antique tractor show‚ street dance‚ food‚ and many other activities that would interest people of all ages. At the end of the day‚ Harold and his crew put together a fireworks display that left us in awe.
Harold was a very energetic man‚ but there was one thing that could distract him and stop him in his tracks‚ and that was JOHN DEERE. His tractors were the second love of his life‚ although sometimes he teased me and said that they were his first love. He became part of the Maple City Antique Tractor Club‚ which gave him many opportunities to show off his tractors.
With a cup of coffee in hand‚ a quick kiss‚ and a sweet‚ ‘I love you‚’ it was off to work he would go. He worked as a deputy for the Warren County Sheriff’s Department for 20 years. When Harold was off duty‚ he enjoyed working on the farm for the Shaumans. To him‚ this wasn’t just a job; it was fun for him to put his John Deere tractors to work.
Harold was not just a man‚ but a loving husband‚ father‚ grandfather‚ uncle‚ and friend. His care for others was returned to him with love and respect by all of those who were privileged to be part of his life.
This was my Uncle Harold and he was one of the most amazing men I have ever met! He worked tirelessly on our family farm and I was lucky enough to be his shadow if you found Uncle Harold you would usually find me. I miss this man every single day in every single way. He left with a huge chunk of my heart ❤
– Janelle Larimer