ROBERTA NADENE HARRIS

Roberta Nadene Harris, born September 5, 1940, passed away January 16, 2011. Nadene put up a heroic fight against lung cancer. A strong willed woman, she refused to let her illness get the best of her. She fought the disease as she lived her life, 'on her terms.' Nadene enjoyed traveling and went to numerous places she wanted to go to Hawaiia destination she had never experienced. A dream completed to fulfill her life. Nadene developed complications on the return flight home. Upon landing in Portland, Oregon she was rushed to a nearby Hospital. Nadene quietly and gracefully passed away at Portland's Adventist Medical Center. She left this earth to the gates of heaven surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and some close friends.

Nadene made her home in Benton City. She was loved and will be remembered by all as a beloved friend, mentor, and asset to the community. She was a proud member of the American Legion, and Benton City Lion's Club. She was known for fundraising and doing things to help the small community. Her thriving businesses supported local sports teams. She helped organize many fundraising activities including the 'Mud Bog Races' which many local residents enjoyed. She was also a lifetime member of the USBC. She competed in 25 years of National Bowling competitions and made strong lifelong friendships with her team mates.

Nadene was a devoted wife, beloved sister, cherished mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was proceeded in death by her late husband Jim Harris. Mother and father 'Shorty' and Harold 'Red' Smith, brother Neil Smith, and three grandchildren Joseph, Jarrod, and Jason. She is celebrated and survived by her six children; Rose Forsness, Rod & Denise Forsness, Vickie & Don Smith, Janet & Malcom Chunn, Chris & Kim Longanecker, and Sherrie Daley. Nadene also leaves behind her dear sisters Mary (& Ron) Durham, Linda Smith, and Patty Emerson. Also 23 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

As per her wishes, Nadene has donated her body to Oregon State University for Science research. A firm believer of positive thinking, Nadene requested no funeral. Instead she preferred an Irish style Wake. Nadene's 'Celebration of Life' will be held Saturday, January 22 ,2011, at the Victory Christian Church in Benton City. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Benton City Lions Club.