Emil "Jr." Harbott, 89 of Thief River Falls, MN passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 24, 2025 at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, ND.

Visitation will begin at 9:30 AM with the memorial service at 10:30 AM on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at St. John's Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, MN with Rev. Thomas Puffe officiating. Military honors will be provided by the American Legion Post 117, VFW Post 2793 and the Air Force Honor Guard.

Emil Harbott, Jr. was born May 6, 1935 in Thief River Falls, MN the son of Emil Sr. and Edith (Geske) Harbott.  He was baptized June 9, 1935 and confirmed August 14, 1949 at St. John's Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls. At his confirmation, the pastor named him "Junior" in the church records.

He grew up and attended school in Saint Hilaire, MN. JR graduated from Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls.

November 5, 1954, he entered into service with the United States Air Force and was stationed primarily in Germany and France. JR was Honorably Discharged September 4, 1958. His terminal date of reserve obligation was November 4, 1962.

December 27, 1968, JR married Jean Hill at Zion Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls and to this union a son David was born.

In the early 1970's, JR began working for the railroad where he was a clerk primarily at the Thief River Falls depot for 33 years. For many years, JR was a bartender at the Eagles Club.

JR was an active and dedicated member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls where he enjoyed serving on various committees. JR enjoyed volunteering at St. John's School mowing the grass.

JR was a man with many interests, he especially enjoyed fishing and was a fantastic cook.

Survivors include his son, David Harbott of Apple Valley, MN; step-children, Kevin Lull of Iowa, Robin (Steve) Gumbusky of Iowa, and Alan (Renee) Lull of Wisconsin; and many other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; and brother, James Harbott.

Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com