John Benjamin Harter, 92, of Hurley, New Mexico passed away Monday, April 1, 2013 at Gila Regional Medical Center.

A Graveside Service will be held Thursday, April 4, 2013 at Fort Bayard National Cemetery with full military honors.  Bright Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Harter is survived by one daughter Zona Harter Howard (Bennie E.), one son John B. Harter of Hurley, New Mexico, three grandchildren Stacie Howard Booth (Nathan), Tina Howard and Chantry Howard (Brittany Rein), two great grandsons Josiah and Isaiah Booth, one great granddaughter Rowan.  He is preceded in death by his parents Oakley and Nina Romine Harter, his wife Rita Dora Faron Harter. 

He was born in Brookton, Montana. Mr. Harter was raised in Stanwood, WA, joined the Navy during WWII, moved to New Mexico in 1949.  He worked at The American Laundry in Hurley, New Mexico.  He enjoyed playing Santa Claus at the Hurley Store for many years. Mr. Harter was a devoted member of American Legion, VFW and Masonic Lodge.  He would enjoy meeting his friends at the Gateway Restaurant in Hurley and M&A café in Bayard.