Harley James Hjorten peacefully passed away at the age of 73 on May 27, 2024, in Federal Way, Washington, after a battle with cancer. He was born December 6th, 1950, in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, as his family began their move from North Dakota. They later moved to Ballard and then to Vashon Island in 1955.
Growing up Harley spent time active in sports, Cub Scouts and Order of Demolay, or hanging out with his lifelong friend Roy Nishiori. He was quite the jokester and was always the one in the family to be doing something silly. He attended Vashon High School and was in the class of 1969.
Harley had a passion for music and played on his sparkling blue drum set. He started playing in the junior high band and then in the Vashon High School band. He also started up his own music scene. It began with Harley and the Poets. After mastering Louie Louie, the band evolved into The Avaunt Guarde. This included Harley and his brother John Hjorten, Jerry Toto and Jim Spakowsky, entertaining islanders for years.
Harley has a son Jacob that he always spoke of with immense pride. Harley and his sister Joyce always shared a very special bond. Any time when he needed a hand caring for Jacob. she was always supportive and there to help care for him.
In his adult years Harley lived and worked in Federal Way. He became an active member in his homeowner’s association and enjoyed going to monthly meetings and going around the grounds inspecting the various projects underway. Harley lived close to his sister Bev, nephew Jessie and other members of her family. They always took care of each other, whether it be getting each other to doctor appointments, the grocery store or a trip to Les Schwab.
Harley was proceeded in death by his parents John Hjorten and Clarice Hjorten Walgren, stepfather Ted Walgren and brothers Rick, Gary and eternal bandmate John. He was shortly after followed in death by his sister Joyce. Harley is survived by his son Jacob Hjorten along with sisters Beverly Faulkner, Barbara Goering, Doris Paulsen and brothers Jerry and Dennis Hjorten.
Harley told his family as he knew the end was nearing that he didn’t want a fuss. However, we will be honoring him alongside his sister Joyce for those who would like to attend. If you hold the music in your heart, it will never leave you.
Services will be held for Harley and Joyce on October 19th, 2024 at 11:00am at Bethel Church on Vashon. All are welcome to attend to remember a time or moment, share a thought or memory, and say a final goodbye.
Dec 6, 1950 – May 27, 2024
