Millinocket – Harold “Herk” Plourde, 85, passed away Thursday, March 15, 2018 at his home in Millinocket. He was born March 23, 1932 in Millinocket, the son of Hally and Odile (Dionne) Plourde. Harold grew up in Millinocket, and was a graduate of Stearns High School, class of 1949. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War era, during which time he earned a degree in Meteorology. After his tour of duty, he returned to Millinocket rejoined his father’s business, Plourde’s Trucking, which he had worked at since the age of 11. He went on to operate that business successfully for over 50 years with his family, and it is now owned and operated by his son. Harold was a member, Past Exalted Ruler, and Chaplain for over 30 years of the Millinocket Elks Club, #1521. He was a dedicated Elk, and lived his life by the values espoused by the organization to which he dedicated much time. In the 1970’s he and his wife, Jean, started the annual Elk’s tradition of hosting a Senior Citizen’s Christmas Party, a tradition which continues. Harold will be remembered locally for his generosity to area causes and individuals, always willing to give of himself and to share the rewards of his labors. He was an all around genuine person who loved to sing, joke, laugh, and share his positive attitude despite any challenges he may have faced. Harold is survived by his wife of 62 years, Jean E. (Whirty) Plourde; three children, Ross Plourde and his wife Lisa of Edmund, Oklahoma, Cheryl Plourde and significant other Pat of South Portland, and Jim Plourde and his wife Kelly of Millinocket; four grandchildren, Jordan and her significant other Ross, Steven and his fiancé Melissa, Alec, and Eric; two great grandchildren, Annibel and Avritt; two siblings, Bernard Plourde and his wife Florence, and Gerry Russell of Bangor; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by two siblings, Roger Plourde and Vivian Jay. Friends are invited to visit with the family 2-4 P.M. Tuesday, March 20 at the Lamson Funeral Home, 11 Tamarack Street, Millinocket, where funeral services will be held at 4 P.M., officiated by the Rev. Bruce Siket. Spring interment, with military honors, will be at the Millinocket Cemetery. Gifts in memory of Harold may be sent to the Katahdin Area Support Group, P.O. Box 374, Millinocket, ME 04462.