Harry Sarno

Harry John Sarno, 93, a lifelong Covert resident, died Thursday, October 11, 2012 at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo. He was born June 16, 1919 to James and Maria (Calabrese) Sarno in Covert, Michigan. Harry served his country 44 months in the US Army Air Force during World War II and survived the D-Day Invasion. He was a charter member of the Covert Lions, a member of South Haven Kiwanis, and lifelong member of St. Basil Catholic Church. Harry retired from the US Postal Service in 1972. Harry founded his real estate business and was a broker for over 40 years. Harry served for more than 55 years on the Covert Fire Department several times as chief. He also served on the Covert Board of Education, South Haven Hospital Board, Van Buren County Road Commission, PIC, and Covert Public Housing Commission. Harry served for 8 years as a Van Buren County Commissioner.
He is preceded in death by his parents; three brothers and two sisters
Harry is survived by his wife – Lois (Blaney) Sarno of Covert whom he married Dec. 15, 1945; children – Jane (David) Cowan, James (Edith) Sarno and Gail (Lindsey )Smith; two sister in laws – Elda Sarno and Margery Ford and a brother-in-law – CR VanderWeele. Nine grandchildren. Four great grandchildren. Harry was an uncle to 24 nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be Sunday, October 14, from 2 – 5 PM at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven. Mass of Christian Burial will take place Monday, October 15, at 11 AM at the St. Basil Catholic Church with Rev. Father Chuck Fisher officiating. Harry will be laid to rest at Ft. Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, Michigan. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Harry’s name to South Haven’s Hospice at Home, Disabled Veterans or the charity of your choice. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guest book at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 637-0333.