Harrington, John DanverMarch 11, 2009.John Danver Harrington, 83, of Osprey, died March 11, 2009.A graveside service with military honors will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday at the Sarasota National Cemetery.Arrangements by Toale Brothers Funeral Homes, Gulf Gate Chapel. Survivors include his wife, Elfriede, and children Stephan, Christopher, Robin, Nancy and Heather.John D. Harrington was born Aug. 16, 1925, in Mobile, Ala. Orphaned at an early age, he was educated at the Jesuit Boys Home in Mobile. At age 15, John joined the United States Marine Corps and served with distinction and honor in both World War II and in Korea. John was wounded in action, and was awarded the Silver Star, the Purple Heart and unit citations for his bravery during the battles of Tarawa and the Gilbert Islands.While in the U.S. Merchant Marine, John traveled extensively through Russia, Austria and Italy. It was in Italy that John became intrigued with art history and the Italian Renaissance, spending extensive hours exploring the art and architecture of the cities.John D. Harrington incorporated his love of art and architecture in a successful business career as a general contractor restoring historic homes in Atlanta, Ga., and Saint Augustine.A self-made man of many talents, John continued his pursuit of art history. His accumulated knowledge on the Renaissance was so vast that many scholars considered him to be an expert.In 1974 John D. Harrington married Elfriede Kindler Harrington. Born in Vienna, Austria, from a prominent family, Elfriede shares John's passion for art.Donations may be made in John's name to the All Faith Food Bank, 717 Cattlemen Rd, Sarasota, FL 34232.