Harlan Schweer, born on February 5, 1949, in Waterloo Iowa, passed away on Monday, December 23, 2024.

As the first in his family to attend college, he earned a B.S. and M.S. in Sociology with a specialization in organizational behavior from Iowa State University.  Despite completing a Ph.D. in Sociology from Purdue University, he was always a "Cyclone" at heart.

Professionally, Harlan spent over 25 years in higher education. First as Assistant Professor, Research and Statistics, for the Department of Political Science at Purdue University.  Followed by 23 years at the College of DuPage.  As Director of Research and Analytics he was responsible for the development of the college management information system, state and federal reporting, and a wide range of institutional research projects.  During his tenure he served as President of the Illinois Association for Institutional Research.

Post-retirement from COD, Harlan embarked on a career of organization research alongside Margaret. They focused on various aspects of organizational health. Their most recent global research on 'employee feelings of belonging' was first released at the 2022 World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

For Harlan, faith and family were 'everything.' He was member of the First Presbyterian Church of Wheaton.  And a passionate soccer coach, scout leader, cross country/track cheer leader and cycling support crew member.

Raised on a farm in Readlyn, Iowa, Harlan was always fascinated by how things worked.  Generous with his time and energy, he  was an active "fixer" and could often be found repairing, restoring, or creating something for family and friends. And he loved traveling across the country to off-road with his customized 2004 silver Jeep Rubicon.

Blessed with a wonderful family, Harlan is survived by Margaret, his wife of 45 years; his two children – Laura Gallo (Paul) and David Schweer (Chelsea); four grandchildren – Lucy, Cora and Noah Schweer; and Mia Gallo; and a much-loved canine companion, Benny. He was a loving husband, devoted father, and the best "Pops" ever.

He was a man whose kindness was a constant, whose soul was extraordinary, and whose very presence elevated those around him. He showed us what it means to live fully, to give selflessly, and to leave the world better than he found it.

Please check back here for more information about the planned celebration of life.

Memorial gifts in Harlan's honor may be directed to College of DuPage Foundation , 425 Fawell Boulevard, Glen Ellyn, IL, or to the Iowa State University Foundation , Department of Sociology, 2505 University Boulevard, P.O. Box 2230, Ames, Iowa, in honor of Harlan M. Schweer.

Family and friends may sign a guest book at hultgrenfh.com. For more information, please call Hultgren Funeral Home at 630-668-0027.