Kenneth & Lela Harkless Foundation Endowment Fund

Kenneth and Lela Harkless devoted their lives, hearts, and talents to the town of Syracuse, Indiana — not for recognition, but out of a deep love for the place they called home. Their story is one of humble service, craftsmanship, and community pride that shaped what Syracuse is today.

Kenneth Harkless was born in Redkey, Indiana, near Fort Wayne. A talented engineer and craftsman, he learned early from his father, Sheldon Harkless, who built engines and helped produce the rare Mier automobiles — only ten of which were ever made. Two cars remain in existence today, one at the Syracuse-Wawasee Museum. Kenneth carried that same inventive spirit throughout his life.

After serving as a World War I pilot, Kenneth married Lela Wertz in 1920. They shared 61 remarkable years together. Lela, who grew up on Lake Wawasee, inspired Kenneth’s deep connection to Syracuse and its surrounding lakes. What began as her hometown soon became their shared passion and a place they would nurture for decades.

In 1929, Kenneth founded the Wawasee Boat Company, which became a cornerstone of the local economy and community life. Under their leadership, the company thrived until its sale in 1968, allowing the couple to turn their focus toward philanthropy and preservation.

Kenneth also served as a director of the State Bank of Syracuse from 1953 to 1984 and was later honored as Director Emeritus. A dedicated Rotary member, he earned the Paul Harris Fellow Award for his service. Friends and neighbors fondly knew him as the “living encyclopedia of the area” for his remarkable memory and deep knowledge of local history.

At the age of 70, Kenneth discovered a new passion: painting. His artwork, often portraits of his beloved wife, Lela, captured both his artistic talent and his appreciation for the area’s heritage. Many of these paintings remain on display at the Syracuse-Wawasee Museum, ensuring that his creativity continues to inspire future generations.

Kenneth and Lela’s lifelong commitment to Syracuse extended beyond business and art. Through the Kenneth and Lela Harkless Foundation Endowment Fund at the Community Foundation, they support an extensive number of organizations in Syracuse, Indiana. This is a tribute to the couple’s vision of preserving history and strengthening the community they loved so dearly .. a beautiful reminder of how one couple’s humble hearts can shape a town forever.