Irving B. Harris

Joan, I worked at the Erikson Institute for nearly 12 years and grew to like and respect your husband a great deal. He always treated me with great respect and listened intently to what I would share with him. You and the rest of the world have lost a great man. I share in your sadness as well as the joy that he brought all of us. God bless.

A giant has left us. We and the world are better for Irving Harris'
intellect, curiosity, generosity and compassion.

The funeral ceremony was also memorable. I will never forget the recessional, "Put On a Happy Face"
softly played piano. I cried like a baby remembering his happy face and his wonderful legacy.

Joan:

I was so honred to know Irving and to have had many opportunities to engage his brilliance and his compassion in conversation. This giant man has left an indelible mark on our city, our country, and the world is a much better place having known Irv Harris.

What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal.
Albert Pike

Joan,

I will miss Irving. As Bill's partner, Irving always made a point of looking me up whenever I came to Chicago. Meeting with him was always a pleasure - conversation topics would include a mix of business, intellectual stimulation, humor, and references to friends and family. As you can imagine, at the end of any get together, I would leave with a "to do" list, usually including the recommendation of a book or an article to read. Please accept my deepest condolences to you...

Dear Bill and the Harris family;
Our condolences to you and all persons everywhere. The loss of such a caring man is a loss to everyone. He will be missed.

Dear Joan,

The world is a better place because of Irving and because of you.

It has been a privilege to be a part of bring the Music and Dance Theater to reality.

My sincerest condolences in this time of sorrow and memory.

Sincerely, Dave Crowell

On behalf of the staff, board and grantees of Community Memorial Foundation, I offer our thoughts, prayers, condolences and thanks. Upon learning of Irving's passing, our initial feelings were of sadness, but they quickly gave way to wonder and renewed inspiration. It will truly be impossible to measure the long-lasting and far-reaching benefits of his work, passion and legacy. Thank you, Irving.

Dear Joan and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you with the passing of Irving. He was an extraordinary and inspiring man. I, for one, am better for having known him. He will be greatly missed.