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BORN
1925
DIED
2020
Murray Harris Obituary
Murray Harris, a man of great faith, peacefully passed away with his son by his side on Sunday, March 15, 2020, at the age of 94. He was born August, 5,1925 in Peterborough, Ontario. As an adult he moved to Winnipeg to attend Teacher's College. While living in Winnipeg he met the love of his life Esther. Together they raised their son Brad and later enjoyed the company of their grandchildren. They shared 56 years together before her passing.
Murray's teaching career began in Winnipeg, Manitoba and later relocated to Thunder Bay. He worked for the Lakehead Public School Board as an instrumental music teacher. There he taught at both Lakeview and Churchill High schools as Head of the Music Department. After retiring in l987, he continued his love of music by playing in various city bands and listening to his favourite musician, Benny Goodman. He also perused his hobbies of photography, clowning and magic. Murray had a sweet tooth and could always be found with a piece of chocolate close at hand.
He is survived and will be missed by his son Brad (Anna) and grandchildren Beth (Kyle) & Marc (Megan). A private funeral service has already taken place, with immediate family, at Shaarey Shomayim Cemetery.
If friends so desire donations can be made to a charity of their choice.
The family gives many thanks to Pioneer Ridge staff, especially the 4th floor, for their exceptional care and support. Thank you to Jenken's funeral home for their guidance during this difficult time. A special thank you to Alan Marantz for the loyalty he showed Murray buy ensuring his wishes were followed with a traditional service. Thank you for the overwhelming support from our extended family and dear friends. We truly are blessed.
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Memories and Condolences
for Murray Harris
5 Entries
Karl Grgurich
May 29, 2020
My deepest sympathies to the Harris Family.
Murray was my instrumental music teacher during my days at Lakeview High School ( 1971-1976).
He inspired me to expand my musical knowledge and have some laughs along the way, especially the annual Band trips to other parts of Canada.
It has been said before, but truly makes sense now, that when Murray Harris left us, it was the day the music died.
May you Rest In Peace.
Karl Grgurich
Lori Ann Edwards
March 23, 2020
To the Family,
Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Like many - Murray Harris was my instrumental music teacher during all my years (1971-1976) at Lakeview High School.
He was an engaging, interesting and supportive teacher. No matter what type of student was thrown at him, he always saw the best in others and his actions fostered in many the life long pursuit of the study of music. I have many fond memories of our musical experiences in and out of the classroom - too many to list here.
For many of us at the time, he was also the first person we knowingly encountered who was an active member of the Jewish faith. While an unassuming person of faith, he always took the time to patiently answer questions posed by those of us who saw this as an opportunity to broaden our understanding beyond Christianity.
While I have lived away from Thunder Bay for many years - I was very aware of his post retirement activities involving photography, clowning and magic - and was not surprised at all.
He will be remembered.
Lori Ann (Mellerup) Edwards
Linda Siczkar
March 22, 2020
He was a great teacher at Lakeview back in the 70s. Very patient man with a passion for music.
Tuulikki Nayanookeesic
March 22, 2020
My condolences to the family. Murray and I had good laughs when he was practicing his magic tricks while I was visiting Esther. I got hooked on Halvah when Murray gave me the first piece that came from Israel. Every time I buy Halvah I think of him. Murray and Esther were very special people to me. I'm ever grateful for the trip they took me to Acapulco.
I visited Murray and Esther few times a week for many many years.
March 21, 2020
I was a secondary school music colleague in Thunder Bay from 1980-88. We performed inter- school concerts, combined band concerts, and met up in music festivals and music council meetings. Across 4 Boards of Education Murray is one of the kindest music teachers I have ever worked with. My deeepest condolences to the family.
Margaret ( Peggy) Wilson
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