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Richard Harris Obituary
1929 - 2013
Richard Edson Harris passed away peacefully on December 1, 2013. He was born on April 10, 1929 to Dale Walter Harris and Luella Francis Christenson Harris. He grew up in Salt Lake City and attended Douglas Grade School, Roosevelt Junior High School and East High School before entering the University of Utah where he eventually graduated from Law School with a Juris Doctorate Degree. He served in the United States Air Force in the Judge Advocate Division for two years, and in the reserve for six years during and following the Korean War (attaining the rank of captain).
He married Sara Elaine Robbins in the Salt Lake Temple on June 10, 1953. This year they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. They are the parents of eight children.
Richard practiced law. An attorney by profession, he specialized in estate planning and tax law. In addition he founded and oversaw a company called Corporate Development Corporation, concentrating on mergers and acquisitions. Richard traveled extensively throughout the world for his clients and business, as well as for pleasure, especially in Europe, South America, and Asia.
He was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and served a mission to Hawaii as a young man. He later served in various callings including several stake missions, Gospel Doctrine teacher for over 35 years, bishop, and president of the Connecticut Hartford Mission.
When asked what should be in his obituary, he replied, "He was born, he died, and in between he tried." And indeed he did try. His was a life of service to his family, friends, and anyone he perceived had a need. Whenever anyone asked how he was, his standard reply was, "I am sweet, kind, thoughtful, considerate, loving, intelligent and humble." And he was. He will be missed for his big smile, his warm welcome and big hug, his thoughtfulness and concern, for his generosity, for his wisdom, and for his ability to solve problems.
He loved all sports, but golf was a particular favorite, and although he showed no mercy on the golf course, he loved to help others learn the sport.
He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Norma Woodland. He is survived by his brother, Thorold Dale Harris, his wife, Elaine Harris, and eight children, Karen (George) Tate, Kristine (Michael) Munnerlyn, Diane (Greg) Warnock, Carolyn (David) Francom, Richard R. Harris (Melissa Michie), Joseph R. (Julie) Harris, Robert R. (Shayla) Harris, and Suzanne Harris, fifty grandchildren and thirty-eight great grandchildren. They all deeply love and appreciate him.
Funeral services will be held Friday, December 6, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. at the Olympus Hills Ward, 4176 South Adonis Drive. Friends and family may visit Thursday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Larkin Mortuary, 260 East South Temple, and Friday at the Olympus Hills Ward from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. prior to services.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Perpetual Education Fund c/o 1450 N. University Avenue, Provo, Utah 84604.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Harris
Garry and LaNell Moore
December 10, 2013
Our dearest Elaine, It is with great sadness that we hear of the passing of Richard. Having been gone for the last five years we have not been made aware of his health situation as much as if we would have had we been home. We are sorry for that. However, we know Richard's heart. We know that he would not have it any other way. His greatest desire was always to be serving. In his humble, cheerful, kind and intelligent way, we know that he was serving to the end.
We had a flurry of necessary appointments last Friday but would have been at the funeral had we known about it. I looked for it today in the obituaries and was sorry to see we had missed it. Please know of our deep love and appreciation for you, Elaine, and for Richard. We know and you know this is not the end. He is very much present but certainly missed physically. Already love eternal, Garry and LaNell
Rod Parker
December 9, 2013
Dear Harris Family - I am sorry to hear of Brother Harris' passing. He was/is a wonderful person and was a positive influence in my life as a youth. He and your family were always welcoming. My deepest condolences.
Rod Parker
Sally Buehner Reyes
December 9, 2013
Dear Harris Family,
I was so sorry to hear about your loss. I wanted to share one memory that is always the first thing that comes to mind: One booming voice yelling "Richard, Joseph, Robert!" I am sure you have many happy memories. Thinking of you all.
Sally
Stuart and Helen Poelman
December 7, 2013
Dear Elaine and family - how we loved and admired Richard. We are so saddened by his passing and want to send our sincere sympathy. You are dear and faithful friends. Know you are in our prayers.
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December 6, 2013
Elaine & Family
We are so sorry to learn of the passing of your wonderful husband, We didn't find out about it until later today. We felt so bad. We wished we could have been there. We have fond memories of your dear husband and father. We remember many enjoyable cousin's parties, Richard was a great man and now he will continue the great missionary work which he loved here. What a great reunion he is having with those that have gone before.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May the Lord's blessing be with you.
We send our love.
Bonnie & Gordon & Fern & Leigh Evans
Alan Sheets
December 6, 2013
Dear Harris family, so sorry to hear about the passing of Brother Harris. During the 30 plus years we lived in the neighborhood, he was someone we always looked up to. He is a wonderful man. God bless you all.
The Leeflangs
Sue Leeflang
December 6, 2013
Elaine and Family,
We will miss him. He was our fine home teacher for a generous number of years and he never missed a month. I'm so glad we got to know him. He always had a big smile and warm concern for our family. He had a powerful side with his soft side as he was always touched by heartfelt experiences and little acts of faith and kindness. I hope he is living it up in the next phase of life.
Kaatje Wilcox
December 6, 2013
He is affectionately remembered by our family as "Uncle Dick" with his always ready smile and passion for life and family. I loved his yodel at Lake Powell and have fond memories of many camp trips and parties at the Harris home.i also loved his golf trips to St. George where he and dad and his golf buddies stayed in my home. Much love and prayers to a family I love so much! Kaatje Munnerlyn Wilcox
David Frogley
December 5, 2013
He was one of the finest men I have ever known. May God bless you with peace.
My love and prayers are with your family.
Don Swenson
December 4, 2013
Dear Elaine and family, We have always known that he was a cut above, and a man with unusual talents. You two made a great team. We are sorry to see him go, but know that he is the best of all places. We know of your great love for him and that you will miss him dearly. We also know who you are. It has been said that behind every successful man is a good woman. That is surely the case with you and Dick. You have been a great strength to him and to all those who know you. We have many fond memories of the two of you and your wonderful family. Know that we love you. Don & Nola
Michele Earlewine
December 3, 2013
What a wonderful man! We have so many memories over the years and miss him already. Our love goes out to the entire Harris family and hope you may find peace. We pray that the Lord will shower you with blessings in your hour of need and always. Love, The Earlewines
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