Obituary for Robert William Harding
Dr. Robert W. Harding (81) passed away on June 5, 2021. Dr. Harding was born on December 22, 1939 in Batavia, New York to the late Robert and Ruth Harding. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1964. It was there and in that same year that he met and married his wife of 55 years, Elaine. He completed an internship and residency at E.J. Meyer Memorial Hospital in Buffalo in 1968. After residency, he served in the US Navy in Key West, Florida. Dr. Harding began his private practice in 1970 in Rutherfordton at the Norris Biggs Clinic and later was a founding partner of Rutherford Internal Medical Associates (RIMA). He thoroughly enjoyed the friendships formed with his partners over the years.
In the late 70’s Dr. Harding established cutting edge cancer treatment in the local community when there were no CT scans, ultrasound or nuclear medicine. Many patients survived for many years based on his treatment and care. He also helped establish and enhance the incredible work rendered in what is today Hospice of the Carolina Foothills.
He retired from RIMA after practicing for over 35 years. However, “he was not done yet” and became the managing physician for Oak Grove Health Care Center for another 5 years.
He loved his dogs, many of which were locally rescued. He was an avid reader of history and philosophy and initiated a group that discussed these topics in his home. He maintained a thirst for learning his entire life while listening to his vast collection of classical music. Dr. Harding thoroughly enjoyed watching his 3 sons play various sports for the R.S. Central Hilltoppers. He was an avid ACC basketball fan with a penchant for Duke. He was a loyal Buffalo Bills fan and shared ongoing strategy sessions with his lifelong friend and brother-in-law.
Robert was pre-deceased by his first son, Eric. He is survived by his wife Elaine Harding, his sister Ann & brother-in law Jim Newton. His sons and spouses Andrew & Alexia Harding, John Harding, Bill & Sara Harding, his 4 grandchildren Emerson Harding, Erich Harding, Bryce Harding and Lucas Harding.
Due to the lingering conditions associated with the pandemic, a private family ceremony will be held at the chapel of Immaculate Conception Church in Forest City. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Rutherford County Animal Control Services, Hospice Carolina Foothills or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
In the late 70’s Dr. Harding established cutting edge cancer treatment in the local community when there were no CT scans, ultrasound or nuclear medicine. Many patients survived for many years based on his treatment and care. He also helped establish and enhance the incredible work rendered in what is today Hospice of the Carolina Foothills.
He retired from RIMA after practicing for over 35 years. However, “he was not done yet” and became the managing physician for Oak Grove Health Care Center for another 5 years.
He loved his dogs, many of which were locally rescued. He was an avid reader of history and philosophy and initiated a group that discussed these topics in his home. He maintained a thirst for learning his entire life while listening to his vast collection of classical music. Dr. Harding thoroughly enjoyed watching his 3 sons play various sports for the R.S. Central Hilltoppers. He was an avid ACC basketball fan with a penchant for Duke. He was a loyal Buffalo Bills fan and shared ongoing strategy sessions with his lifelong friend and brother-in-law.
Robert was pre-deceased by his first son, Eric. He is survived by his wife Elaine Harding, his sister Ann & brother-in law Jim Newton. His sons and spouses Andrew & Alexia Harding, John Harding, Bill & Sara Harding, his 4 grandchildren Emerson Harding, Erich Harding, Bryce Harding and Lucas Harding.
Due to the lingering conditions associated with the pandemic, a private family ceremony will be held at the chapel of Immaculate Conception Church in Forest City. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Rutherford County Animal Control Services, Hospice Carolina Foothills or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.