Harold Hafs

HAFS, Harold - Age 89, of Grand Blanc, died March 4, 2021.
Born on his family’s farm in Wisconsin, where plows were still drawn by draft horses, Harold went on to become an agricultural scientist whose research into the breeding and raising of livestock helped improve the efficiency and output of agricultural practices around the world. As chair of the Department of Dairy Science at Michigan State University, and later, of the Department of Animal Sciences at Rutgers University, his teaching and mentorship influenced the lives of numerous students, many of whom have gone on to make significant contributions of their own. As vice president for Animal Science at Merck, Harold led research and development of pharmaceuticals that have improved the health and vigor of many millions of agricultural and companion animals worldwide. Throughout his career, he enjoyed spending time in the field, talking with farmers, who reminded him of his own agricultural background. Late in life, when asked how he would describe what and who he was, he replied without hesitation, “a farmer”. Harold is survived by his wife of 68 years, Carol, a son, Mark (Susan), a daughter, Leslie, a
granddaughter, Lindsay (Aaron), and a great-granddaughter. He was preceded in death by a son, Etienne. A private funeral service will be held.

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