Neon, Horses, and Heritage: The Legacy of Flip Harmon
Floyd “Flip” Harmon: A Life Lived in Honor of the Pioneers
Floyd "Flip" Harmon was a man whose life blended patriotism, horsemanship, and deep devotion to community and heritage. A pillar of Utah’s western tradition and civic celebration, Flip Harmon dedicated decades to preserving and promoting the legacy of the Mormon pioneers through tireless service, heartfelt leadership, and personal example.
Born into a large family—one of ten children raised by a widowed mother—Flip learned the value of hard work, self-reliance, and faith from an early age. An uncle helped introduce him to horsemanship, a passion that would remain a central part of his life. As a young man, he developed a love of rodeo sports, especially calf roping, and competed in rodeo arenas throughout the region. Even in later years, Flip remained an active rider, keeping quarter horses on his small farm in Magna and saddling up nearly every day.
Flip was a proud veteran of World War II, serving aboard a Navy destroyer in the South Pacific. He took part in nearly a dozen major battles during the war, experiences that deepened his appreciation for sacrifice and freedom. After returning home, he became deeply rooted in the civic and cultural life of Utah.
In business, Flip Harmon was co-owner of 20th Century Lites, a well-known sign company originally located at 3715 South Redwood Road. He worked alongside his brother, Bob Harmon, for decades before eventually moving the business further north. Even into his later years, Flip could be found working at the shop several days a week—his hands always busy, his heart still in the work.
But it was through the Days of ’47 organization that Flip Harmon became a household name across the state. He served on the Days of ’47 Committee for 37 years, including 16 years as Rodeo Chairman and over two decades as President, beginning in 1978. Under his leadership, the annual celebration of the pioneers grew into a vibrant, multi-day commemoration of Utah’s heritage, encompassing much more than just the famed parade. Flip championed the Children’s Parade, Horse Parade, Territorial Ball, Queen Contest, Pioneer Luncheon, Pops Concert, Community Family Home Evening, and Arts Festival. These events, full of color and community spirit, bore his signature blend of dignity and delight.
Because of his vision and dedication, the memory of the Utah pioneers and their journey westward remained alive and inspiring for generations of Utahns. For his quiet, steadfast service, he was honored with the Quiet Pioneers Award in 1990, recognized by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, and inducted into the Cyprus High School Hall of Fame. He also served as president of the Utah State Western Riding Clubs Association and was an active member of the Magna Mounted Riders.
A devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Flip held numerous callings throughout his life, including bishop and high council member. His faith, like his character, was unwavering and quietly strong.
Flip Harmon lived with purpose and principle, honoring the past not just in memory but in action. Whether he was riding his horse across a dusty field in Magna, crafting signs with precision, waving to the crowds on Pioneer Day, or serving quietly in his church, he embodied the virtues of a true pioneer: courage, commitment, and community.
Flip Harmon came from a proud and accomplished pioneer family whose legacy has touched nearly every corner of Utah. His great-grandparents, Charles and Martha Harman, were early settlers whose resilience helped build the foundation of the Salt Lake Valley. His grandparents, Annie and Charles Harman, carried forward that tradition of hard work and community service. Flip’s parents, Henry and Florence Harman, raised ten children with strength, faith, and perseverance, instilling in them a deep sense of purpose and family unity. Flip was a member of the distinguished Harman/Harmon family, whose contributions have enriched generations—from the founding of Harmons Grocery to the global success of Harman’s Kentucky Fried Chicken, and countless acts of quiet generosity. Like his ancestors, Flip dedicated his life to building community, honoring history, and making Utah a better place for all.
3715 Redwood Road
