Richard Walter Harney

Richard Walter "Dick" Harney passed away peacefully on April 3, 2026.

Dick was born on December 30, 1932, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Estel and Ruth Harney. From an early age, he possessed a strong sense of independence and a desire to explore the world. He attended Indiana University before serving two years in the U.S. Army, stationed in Salzburg, Austria, an experience that broadened his horizons and sparked a lifelong love of travel.

After returning home, Dick followed his father's encouragement to seek new opportunities in Arizona. He settled in Phoenix, where he built a successful 20-year career as a mortgage broker. During this time, he married his first wife and welcomed his daughters, Diane and Sheila.

A lifelong tennis enthusiast, Dick's passion for the sport led to one of the most meaningful chapters of his life. Through tennis, he met Paul Callaway, and together they moved to Sierra Vista to establish Champion Homes, where they built custom homes for 15 years.

Dick was a man of many talents and interests. A licensed pilot, he owned his own airplane for many years and relished the freedom of flight. He was equally at home on the tennis court, where his infectious laugh became one of his trademarks. Alongside his longtime doubles partner, Dick White, he won dozens of tournaments and treasured more than 40 years as a member of Kings Court Tennis Club. He also took great joy in passing on his love of tennis to his grandson, Jonathan.

It was at Kings Court Tennis Club that Dick met the love of his life, Gisela. Their 44-year marriage was filled with laughter, companionship, and adventure. Together they enjoyed tennis, hiking, the companionship of their many beloved dogs, and two decades of traveling the country in their RV. Their partnership was a beautiful example of love, loyalty, and shared joy.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents and his older brother, Don. He is survived by his beloved wife, Gisela; his daughter, Diane Scott of Phoenix; his daughter, Sheila; his stepdaughter, Andrea Renouard (John) of Litchfield Park, Arizona; and his grandson, Jonathan Renouard of Phoenix.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Valor Hospice for the compassionate care provided during Dick's final weeks, especially Lydia and Melinda. They also wish to recognize the steadfast friendship and support of Roseanne Mattingly and Gary Shafranski, Dr. Bill and Connie McCormick, and Kim Smalley.

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