IRVINE, CALIFORNIA____Frank W. Harding, III, 74, of 25 Alegria, Irvine, formerly of Worcester, Massachusetts, died Sunday August 11 in his home.
He leaves his wife, Diane Harding; two sons, George Christian Harding of Huntington Beach, CA., and John E. Harding of Valencia, CA., and six grandchildren. He was predeceased by his first wife, Ann (Olsen) Harding and by two sons, William and James Harding. He was born in New Jersey, son of Frank W. Harding, Jr., and Caroline (Coghlin) Harding and lived in Worcester for 20 years. He has resided in California for many years.
Mr. Harding was graduated from Classical High School and Worcester Polytechnic Institute both in Worcester and then graduated from Columbia University with an advanced aeronautics degree. He then became an officer in the United States Air Force attaining the rank of Colonel. Colonel Harding received many citations including the Legion of Merit for exemplary service to his country. His responsibilities included the Lunar - Space - B1A and B1B Air Force programs. After 30 years of service Colonel Harding retired and joined Rockwell Corp. and was Director of Procurement for Aerospace Projects for several years. After retiring he continued consulting to various challenging Lunar/Space projects.
He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II.
Mr. Harding was an avid sailor and train hobbyist who sailed and traveled extensively.
The Funeral Mass followed by full military honors was held Saturday August 17 in Lake Forest, California. Memorial contributions may be made to SADS Foundation, Attn: Rachel Day, 508 East South Temple, Suite 20, Salt Lake City, Utah 84102. Obituary courtesy of Dirsa-Morin Funeral Home.