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July 6, 2025 25 mins

🎙️ Living a Life Decided: Jerry Harkness – From Retirement to Purposeful Service

In this episode of Living a Life Decided, we sit down with a man who proves that retirement isn’t the end—it’s a new beginning. Meet Jerry Harkness from Peoria Illinois, a retired Caterpillar Inc. professional who, instead of slowing down, chose to step up.

After decades of hard work, Jerry found himself in a maintenance role at a retirement home. But something stirred in him—a desire for more clarity, more purpose, and more impact. That’s when he joined I’ve Decided in February 2023, seeking what we provide in “all the pieces of the puzzle.”

Learn more at www.ivedecided.org

With his wife Jeannine by his side, Jerry made a bold decision: to retire—again—in December 2023. But this time, it wasn’t about stepping away. It was about stepping into something greater. Together, they launched Happy 2 Help, a business built on compassion and community. Their mission? To serve and support individuals in their area, offering practical help and heartfelt connection.

Jerry’s story is a powerful reminder that living a life decided means choosing purpose over passivity, and service over stagnation. He didn’t just retire—he re-fired his passion to make a difference.

📞 Want to connect with Jerry or see how Happy 2 Help can support you or someone you love? Reach out at 309-922-9630. Let him know you found his number from the podcast.

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