Harlan G. Reinders, Sr.

Harlan G Reinders Sr, 85, of Eau Claire, WI, entered into the presence of the Lord, at home, surrounded by his family, on February 15, 2025.

Harlan was born March 2, 1939, in Artesia, CA, to Albert and Rose (Brunsting) Reinders. He enlisted in the Navy in 1957 and served his country dutifully until 1962. He married Phyllis Battjes in Redlands, CA, on June 29, 1962.

Harlan, a faithful servant of the Lord, worked in Christian radio for more than 55 years until his passing. He began his ministry in radio in 1968 in San Diego, CA. He moved his family to Wisconsin in 1972 to join WWIB FM. He was instrumental in the building of three Christian radio stations in the Chippewa Valley over the past 53 years. He continued as Chief Engineer and on-air personality for WWIB FM and WOGO AM, which was added in 1985. In 1995, Harlan put WHEM, 91.3 FM, on the air. He remained Station Manager and Chief Engineer at WHEM until the time of his death. Harlan was instrumental in politics, serving as chairperson of the Eau Claire County Republican Party from 1995 to 1999. He also served in areas of leadership in a number of local churches and evangelical organizations.

Harlan loved spending time with his family. One of his favorite pastimes was taking camping trips to Brunet Island State Park, during which he and Phyllis often had many grandchildren in tow. Harlan was a faithful and proud fan at his grandchildren’s numerous sporting events, concerts, and recitals.

Harlan is preceded in death by his parents and one brother Alvin (Joanne). He is survived by Phyllis, his devoted wife of 62 years; children Loralyn (David) Eckstrom, Harlan Jr (Laura) Reinders, Karen (Bill) Vlcek, and Suzanne (Mike) Hendricks; grandchildren Nils, Liesl, Paige (Logan), Gerrit, Harlan III (Kayla), Noah (Mikenna), Georgia, Joseph Harlan, Jake, Isabelle (Mitchell), Alyson, and Lindsey; great-grandchildren Vienna and Ezra; sister Donna (Jack) Van Grouw; and many nieces and nephews.

Harlan lived his life according to the following Scripture, “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written, ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!’” (Romans 10:14-15).

Harlan’s family would like to express their deep appreciation to the dedicated staff at Mayo Clinic Health System Home Health & Hospice for their compassionate care during Harlan’s final days.

A visitation will be held on February 28, 4-7 pm at Grace Baptist Church, 11591 17th Ave, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 1 also at Grace Baptist Church at 1 pm. There will be no visitation prior to the celebration of life on Saturday. 

In Lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to WHEM FM, 228 E Lowes Creek Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54701.

Friends and family may offer condolences online at www.hulkefamilyfh.com.

Hulke Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 3209 Rudolph Road, Eau Claire, WI 54701 is assisting the family with the arrangements.

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