Troy Harsh

Troy Harsh, born October 5, 1971, in Iowa City, Iowa, passed away on December 19, 2025, at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa surrounded by his loved ones. 

Troy was the son of Ronald Harsh and Bonnie Witt and was preceded in death by his parents and his best friend, Dusty.

Troy was born with a heart of gold—work boots laced up and a few tattoos to match. He spent most of his life in the Des Moines metro area but loved country living the most. He was passionate about his work and enjoyed tattoos, shooting guns, long walks on a gravel road, drinking beer, and building fires while listening to Pantera or KISS. 

Troy radiated love and kindness and never had a mean bone in his body. He was the true definition of someone who would give you the shirt off his back—though more often, he was the muscle helping anyone move. His generosity, loyalty, and warmth left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Nikki; his wiener puppy Wolpert (Willie), his daughter, Jessica Lynn and his granddaughters, Trinity and Denver. Troy’s memory will live on through his family and friends, who will continue to honor and cherish the moments they shared with him.

A celebration of life gathering for Troy will be held Saturday, December 27, 2025, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at Merle Hay Funeral Home Chapel, 4400 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, Iowa 50310. This will be a time to share stories, laugh, and honor the wonderful man Troy was.