Harley McLain

Harley James McLain was born on 14 June 1951 in Mayville, North Dakota, the third child to Kathryn and the Reverend Bernard McLain. Harley attended school in Livingston, Montana until his family moved to Jamestown, North Dakota, where he graduated from high school and Jamestown College with a degree in English and political science.Harley was a fun-loving, compassionate and joyous father, brother, uncle and friend. He met Buckminster Fuller and built a geodesic dome where he lived on the family land in Eckelson. He became an organic farmer, champion of peace, landscaper, gifted carpenter and ran for president, congressman and agricultural commissioner with the Natural People's League or NPL, among other offices. His slogans were: I am a man "outstanding in my field" or "Organic is more Orgasmic." His brilliant wit, charm and vibrancy were reflected in the songs he wrote. He always seemed to have a guitar or good book in hand.Harley met Julie Goeller at a Democratic convention and they later married in 1983. She was the love of his life - they were Gemini twins, both born in June, and a truly memorable pair. They had three children, Molly, Mira and Matthew, who grew up surrounded in an incredibly creative and loving atmosphere. Harley enjoyed so many activities with his kids: sledding, watching the northern lights and the stars, picking flowers, playing songs for birthday parties and with his kids, telling stories, going to parks, camping and taking walks on the land where he farmed. Harley and Julie had a greenhouse and nursery, Shy Soo Nursery, in Valley City for many years, and their landscaping can be seen in numerous communities and along highways across the state.Harley was an active member of the Congregational Church and the sense of social justice that was instilled in him by his parents showed through in his life's endeavors. He was an outrageous actor in the community theater, and even traveled to Los Angeles, California in May of 2013 to appear in a movie called 'Axe to Grind' with his cousin Matthew James Gulbranson. Harley was a talented carpenter and an advocate and practitioner of natural and spiritual health and healing. He treasured his friendships and family members by lighting up their lives with a song, a twinkle in his eye and a good Norwegian joke.Harley passed away at age 62 on 9 February 2014 in Fargo, North Dakota. Show less «