Harold Underwood, 91, Clermont, Fla.
Harold Robert Underwood, age 91, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, in Clermont, Florida, leaving behind a legacy of faith, family, service, and friendship that spanned the globe.
Harold was born on Sept. 30, 1934, in Blooming Prairie, to Edgar Underwood and Myrtle Underwood. He was the sixth of eight children and grew up with a deep love for his Minnesota roots, a love he carried with him throughout his life. He often shared fond memories of skiing behind a car through snowy roadside ditches during the winter and playing sports at Blooming Prairie High School. No matter where life took him, he treasured every opportunity to return home to Minnesota and reconnect with family.
Harold proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, where he developed the technical skills that launched an accomplished career. Over the years, he worked for Honeywell in Florida, NASA in South America, Walt Disney World (Reedy Creek) in Central Florida, ABC Bus (Central FL) and ARAMCO in Saudi Arabia. His work allowed him to travel extensively, but it was the friendships he formed around the world that remained among his greatest treasures.
A man of steadfast faith, Harold was an active member of his church throughout his life. Most recently, he faithfully served at Woodlands Lutheran Church in Montverde, Fla., where he found a loving church family and many dear friends.
Harold believed that serving others was one of life's greatest callings. He generously gave of his time as a Boy Scout troop leader for many years, helping to mentor young men and instill values of character, responsibility, and service. He also coached his children's baseball and softball teams, where he taught not only the fundamentals of the game but also the importance of teamwork, perseverance, respect, and good sportsmanship. Whether at church, in his community, or on the ball field, Harold led by quiet example and was always willing to lend a helping hand.
Harold was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Myrtle Underwood; his first wife, Jeanette, who passed away in 2014; his son, Roger, who passed away in June 2023; his siblings Chet, Dorothy, Tom, Frank, and Bill; and two great-grandchildren.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife of eleven years, Ruth; his sisters, Barbara and Darlene; his son Steve; his daughter Mari (Steve); his daughter Cindy (Gene), along with his two step-children Kim (Eric) and Kirk (Kelly). He also leaves behind his cherished 18 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.
In addition to his immediate family, Harold is survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members across the country, as well as countless friends who became family throughout his remarkable life.
Harold's greatest gifts were his unwavering faith, his devotion to his family, his heart for serving others, and his ability to make lifelong friends wherever he lived. Whether in Minnesota, Florida, South America, Saudi Arabia, or anywhere his journey led him, he left a lasting impression through his kindness, generosity, integrity, and enduring spirit of service. His example of faith, leadership, and sportsmanship will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
He will be deeply missed by his wife, his beloved church family, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and the many friends he made throughout the world.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Aug. 8, at 1 p.m. at Woodlands Lutheran Church, 15333 County Road 455, Montverde, Fla. A reception on the church patio will immediately follow the service, where family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate Harold's remarkable life.
