SERVED IN OFFICE FROM 2011 THROUGH 2014
Joan Harms of Platte City, formerly county clerk of Platte County, died on Friday, Oct. 17 at the age of 78.
Her husband, Vernon, told The Landmark Joan had been hospitalized since Wednesday, Oct. 15. She had battled health problems at various points over the past several years but had remained active and in good spirits, her husband said.
Joan had exchanged communications with The Landmark as recently as two weeks ago through Facebook Messenger, when she asked for an update on an Italian restaurant planning to open in Downtown Platte City.
Known for a pleasant demeanor, Harms was elected Platte County clerk in November of 2010 and took office Jan. 1, 2011.
A Republican and a political newcomer, Harms defeated incumbent Democrat Sandy Krohne 54 percent to 46 percent in the Nov. 2, 2010 general election.
Harms served just one term as clerk, as she did not seek reelection in 2014.
In a Jan. 8, 2014 interview with The Landmark, Harms cited reasons of “health and family” for her decision not to seek reelection that year.
“I really want to run, I just don’t think I will,” she said in that interview.
When asked about her accomplishments in office, she said: “We have processes and procedures in place for the next person. This office is a paper jockey. We don’t do anything magical.”
She said her office was being run in a more fiscally conservative manner and on a smaller budget than when she was first elected.
“I think I’ve personally clerked every county commission meeting, or at least I’ve been in the room for each one,” she said. “I’ve enjoyed it.”
Harms was born May 22, 1947 in Webb City, Mo. Her parents were Don Bull and Marjorie Ervin Bull.
She graduated Webb City High School, Friends University and Nazarene University.
She had worked at Midland Brake, Kustom Electronics, Honeywell, and Harley Davidson, all prior to her time as county clerk.
Early in her work career, she and her husband owned Top Wire Line, an oil company.
She enjoyed cooking, traveling, going to church, growing flowers and vegetables, as well as time with family and friends.
She is survived by her son, Lee Leonard; her husband, Vernon Harms; a sister, Patricia Leger; grandchildren Samantha and Jackson; two stepdaughters, Kendra Harms and Kristina Freeman, and two bonus grandchildren, Alexis and John Freeman.
Memorial services will be at Christ Chapel, 15275 Hwy. 92, Platte City, on Saturday, Oct. 25 at 10 a.m. Visitation will be at 9 a.m. that day.
