SOMERS, N.Y. - John Harkins, a founding member and past president of the Somers Lions Club whose decades of community service helped leave a lasting mark on the town, died on Sunday, Oct. 18. He was 90.
A Somers resident for 75 years, Harkins was among the community leaders who established the Somers Lions Club in 1966, helping lay the foundation for an organization that has served the town for nearly six decades.
A local real estate broker, Harkins worked alongside Wayne Van Tassell and Jerry Billingsley to establish the club, which was dedicated to serving the needs of the growing Somers community.
One of his most significant contributions was leading the club's first major community project: the design and construction of the pavilion at Reis Park.
The pavilion has since become a popular gathering place for community events, concerts and celebrations, standing as a lasting reminder of Harkins' commitment to his hometown.
In a tribute following his passing, the Somers Lions Club remembered Harkins for his lifetime of service and the role he played in shaping the organization.
"John's contributions helped lay the foundation for nearly six decades of service by the Somers Lions Club, leaving a legacy that continues to benefit our community today," the club stated.
Born July 23, 1936, in Rochester, New York, Harkins was the son of Joseph C. and Mary B. (Palmer) Harkins. Formerly of Larchmont, he graduated from St. Mary's in Katonah before earning a bachelor's degree from Boston College and a master's degree in business administration from New York University.
Beyond his professional career and community involvement, Harkins enjoyed skiing, sailing and golf. He was also a licensed private pilot.
Above all, however, his family said he cherished the time he spent with his loved ones.
Harkins and his wife, Irma E. (Pellini) Harkins, were married for 65 years. He was the father of Cyndi Sciacca and her husband, Joe; John Jr.; JC; Mary-John, whose husband, John Lofaro, predeceased him; and Christian and his wife, Laurie. He also considered Mark Caico and his wife, Vanessa, part of the family, loving Mark like a son.
He was a grandfather to Sarah, Katie and Thomas Gall; Julia and Kara Sciacca; and Kennedy, Jack and Brogan Harkins. He is also survived by several nieces.
An animal lover, Harkins shared his life with numerous dogs and granddogs over the years, all of whom held a special place in his heart.
His family remembered him for his wit, wisdom, sense of humor, positive outlook and compassion for others.
"The world isn't quite as bright without him," his family wrote in his obituary.
Visitation was scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 22, at Clark Associates Funeral Home in Katonah.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, Oct. 23, at 11:30 a.m. at St. Joseph's Church, 95 Plum Brook Road in Somers.
For the Somers Lions Club and the generations of residents who have gathered beneath the pavilion at Reis Park, Harkins leaves behind a legacy of community service that will continue to be felt for years to come.
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