1924 ~ 2012
Mildred Lucille Harris, preferably and affectionately known as "Mid" by those who knew and loved her, was born on June 27, 1924 to Rose Crompton and Martin F. Harris in Evanston, Wyoming, where she was raised with her brothers, Martin and Harry Lee Harris. Her eventual sisters-in-law, June and Betty, were really more like sisters. She always considered Wyoming to be her home, but she lived for most of her life in Salt Lake City. She was a graduate of St. Mary's of the Wasatch in Salt Lake City and attended the University of Utah.
Mid was a mother extraordinaire. She drew from her inner strength and love to live life's successes and joys proudly, but humbly, through her children and grandchildren. She helped raise her grandson, Ben, and almost singlehandedly raised her own five children: Susan R. Sharrock, J.D. (Floyd); J. Michael Clark, M.D. (Anne); Jayne E. Clark, M.D., David M. Clark, C.P.A. (Judy); and Wm. Matt Clark, M.D. She also very much loved and took great interest in her other 10 grandchildren and her 20 great-grandchildren, and extended family.
Mid quickly climbed the ladder while working at Castleton's clothing store in Salt Lake City, and was grateful and proud ultimately to become the organization's executive secretary. She made many longtime friends among her Castleton co-workers and "bosses."
One of the most fun events of her life was to represent the grandmothers of America as a torchbearer in the 2002 Olympic Torch Run in Salt Lake.
Mid is remembered by her family, and all who knew her, as a highly intelligent, very polite, and extremely practical person. She suffered from Alzheimer's disease during the last two years of her life, and "moved on" on February 18, 2012.
Mid was always a dignified and grateful lady. She was most appreciative of her much loved puppy, Lizzy (who was her best "nurse") - and also her family caregivers, Jayne and Ben, as well as her professional helpers, especially Franki, Kimberly, and Kandalyn.
With family spread from Alaska to Florida, a celebration of Mid's life will be held at a later date by her family and friends.
A thoughtful donation in remembrance of Mid to the Humane Society or the
would be appropriate.
Condolences may be sent to www.wasatchlawn.com
Published in Salt Lake Tribune from February 24 to February 26, 2012
