Harry Seifert Jr., owner of Harry’s Banana Farm in Lake Worth Beach, died Tuesday from health complications. He was 76, according to Lou DeStout, the bar’s general manager and a longtime friend.
The bar, a neighborhood fixture on Dixie Highway known for its rooftop raptor and witty roadside billboard, is still operating. DeStout said customers and staff keep asking what happens next, and his answer is that nothing will change. Seifert had survived two strokes and several other health problems in recent years.
Seifert’s father opened the bar in 1954. Seifert took over in the early 1980s and turned it from a family spot into a late-night hangout. DeStout said the walls are filled with souvenirs Seifert collected on his travels, including pieces from Australia and China. Seifert also started the tradition of the sign’s messages.
About 30 years ago, Seifert began dressing as Santa Claus to hand out wrapped gifts to children at Barton Elementary School. The effort grew to four elementary schools and became a nonprofit, Harry’s Helping Hands, which is marking its 30th year. DeStout asked people who want to honor Seifert to donate to the group instead of sending flowers.
A celebration of life is planned for Dec. 6 at the Lake Worth Beach Golf Club.
