Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
MICHAEL HARRIS Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for MICHAEL HARRIS
Chris Sowell
November 22, 2020
Here it is, 2020 the year of Covid19 and I was looking at an event featuring the F117 Stealth Fighters in Palm Springs. Then sprang to mind Mike Harris, a wonderful man whose smiling image in this obituary flooded my mind with his laugh, his outstanding leadership and his ability to make every person feel uniquely special. I had the honor of working with Mike at the YMP after he retired from the USAF. What a remarkable man and the tributes to him reflect what I knew of an amazing guy, fighter pilot, outdoorsman and wonderful human being.
Should any of the Harris family read this site from time to time, know that Mike still lives in the hearts and minds of those he met. I hope that in the seven years since his passing, the pain has eased from his loss but the memories of him have grown stronger. God bless, Chris
Waldemar Schmidt
March 23, 2013
The picture of Mike tells me much of this man. His smile is the same and part of what I remember most about him. I was but a pledge when I first came to know Mike. I have never seen him treat a pledge as a subservient being and never saw him disrespectful of another person - though, he was in a position of power and prestige in our fraternity. Clearly, and comments in this book attest, this strength of character has never wavered throughout his life. I am sorry that you, Dolores, must suffer his absence, and that your children must as well. It is a privilege to be able to add to this book. I look forward to "looking him up" when my flight lands. Please accept my sympathy and this thought: Life has no pain which Heaven cannot heal.
Brad Carlson
March 8, 2013
Dolores,
Col Harris was my first commander at TTR, and was the best of the bunch. His room was next to mine in the run-down trailers we called our home away from home in 1985; the walls were so thin I was often awakened by him calling your son to check up. He was one of those commanders I felt a kinship to as not only a leader, but a friend, and even a dad. He was just that kind of guy. He always remembered me at reunions, and that meant a lot to me. He will get a toast to comrades absent from me at the next one.
Peter & Bette Beauregard
February 25, 2013
I met Mike for the first time after a night owl FAC divert into Udorn and we partied with the triple nickel long into the night. We ended our careers at Nellis and have been trading jokes into our retirement. It was a true honor to share those precious memories and great times. Our condolences, thoughts and prayers to Dolores and the tribe in these difficult days to come.
Marty Cavato
February 23, 2013
Mike and I served together in the 555TFS, Udorn Thailand. He was a great fighter pilot and a true patriot. May God bless and watch over all of his family at this difficult time.
Dorothy Farr--Baker
February 21, 2013
Deloris, Just wanted to let you know My heart hurts for you. I want to say something to help you but..... there are no words. [email protected]
c.heather robinson
February 20, 2013
Ms Harris and Andrea Jennifer and Aaron
I am really sorry to hear that your husband and father passed. I heard about the news while in california. Well, kept you all in my prayers. I know my Dad lost a very close friend and someone that was like a dad figure to me while growing up. Love heather robinson
Frank and Gayle Faha
February 20, 2013
Mike and his family are everlasting friends. The loss of Mike is a heart-wrenching experiences,but it also reminds us of all the wonderful memories we have had over the past 60 plus years.
Gayle, as Dolores' childhood friend and Mike as Franks fellow fighter pilot, hunter, fisherman, adventurer and traveling companions bring memories that are so cherished. Mike was a legend in his own time.
We wish Dolores and her family all the love we can generate.
Forever, Frank and Gayle Faha
Mickey Givens
February 19, 2013
Dear Dolores, Ginger and family: We were saddened to hear of the passing of Mike. We are so glad Ginger sent us his obituary. We certainly knew he was a great guy just spending some time with the two of you on our cruise to the Baltics, but we had no idea of the depth of his military career. We feel privileged to have had some time with both of you and to have met Ginger's beloved brother.
Kate Horning
February 19, 2013
I know all of us that knew Mike will miss him so much! I have such fond memories of Mike.. all the times when you guys would come visit us in Spokane and the laughter would ring through our home. He lit up the room with his sparkling eyes and beautiful smile! I will always have those memories and BIG HUGS to you Deloris and your wonderful family!
Much Love
Mike Courtney
February 18, 2013
Rest in peace, my Lambda Chi brother.
February 18, 2013
Mike was a friend for 50 years- a big Beaver (OSU) fan, then USAF flying fighters. We managed to hook up over the years I wish it had been more often. Praying for Delores and family! Fly safe Mike-
Steve and Kathy Altick
February 18, 2013
So sorry to hear this news. Mike was a Beaver fan, fighter pilot, and a good friend for over 50 years, he will be missed. Delores and family,you are in our prayers. Steve and Kathy Altick
Lynne Forbis
February 18, 2013
We were very sorry to hear about Mike's passing. Delores, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. (The Fran Parker Family).
Dallas Smith
February 18, 2013
From a fellow 64th member and for a short time, his landlord for a lovely home I shared with my bride in Mukeltio. A life well lived just about says it all. You were taken from us too soon and will be sorely missed. I would guess there will be many a nickel on the grass in your honor. I am proud to have known you.
February 18, 2013
Dolores & family-- I am so very sorry to read of Mike's death in the Oregonian. I can tell by all the kind messages in this Guest Book that he was greatly respected and appreciated by many people of many ages, and that he lived an active friend-filled life. I know that you and Mike were loving "soul mates" for all of those 50 years--& more! I remember sitting in the audience when you and Mike were singing a love song in a musical ("Oklahoma"?)from opposite sides of the stage, and he couldn't keep his eyes off you. What a wonderful life, and I'm so sorry for your loss. Love to you and yours. Rosemary (Sullivan) Vertregt
February 18, 2013
A special time and a special man. I will always remember your leadership. Rails Ryals, Z Squadron
Tommy and Judy Crawford
February 18, 2013
Dolores and Family,
I remember well when we met in 1982 and all of the things we could not talk about with our families at that time. With Mike, duty was 110% and play was as well. Those are cherished times we will remember always. He knew what life was all about and taught us all what was important. What a pleasure it was to have worked, flown and partied with him. He will be sorely missed by everyone he touched.
Greg and Catie Lewis, Col (ret)
February 18, 2013
Throughout my whole USAF career and into retirement, Col Mike Harris and Deloris were two of my all-time favorites. Mike taught me much about being a fighter pilot, commander, leader and USAF officer -- a role model and mentor I tried to emulate as I progressed through the ranks. Deloris will always be the perfect commander's wife in my mind! Cathie and I deeply appreciated their friendship over the years and their willingness to take care of all the former Snakes on short notice "hospitality checks" as we passed through Nellis or Las Vegas! Boss, you were one of the best ever I had the honor to serve under and thanks for some of my fondest memories -- we all lost a great one! "We drink to those who gave their all of old," many of us have raised a glass to CINCSNAKE! God Bless Deloris and family, we all will deeply miss Mike!
Marc & Wanda Frith
February 18, 2013
Dolores and family, Colonel Mike will truly be missed. Wanda and I grieve with you in his passing. However, we give thanks for knowing him and you, the family. Mike was a leader, mentor, aviator extrodinaire, a great husband, father and grandfather, outdoorsman and friend. You were role models for both Frith families that served our nation with you. Mike will be missed, but your love, guidance and caring for us in our lives will live on. I will throw "a nickel on the grass" on my way out to visit my aling dad today.... God Bless your family... We love you all!!!
Lt. Col. (Ret) Marc and Wanda Frith (Jacksonville, Florida)
Eric Grindy
February 17, 2013
Our deepest sympathies to the Harris family, of learning of Mr. Harris' passing. Aaron's Dad has always been a bigger than life hero to me, and a few other young men graced by his presence at Oregon State in the middle 80's. We all share in feeling a deflation of earth's atmosphere with his loss. I am a better man for knowing him and the entire Harris family.
Bless you all.
Glenn & Judy Milligan
February 17, 2013
Our thoughts are with you and the family during this difficult time. Mike will be missed.
Jon & Tiffany Duran
February 17, 2013
Delores & family,
We were saddened to learn of Mike's passing. We cherish our many great memories of family celebrations and ski trips! We are thankful to have spent joyous times with you all and we consider it a blessing to have been able to have such great memories!! Our thoughts & prayers are sent from Texas,
Jon, Tiffany, Dante, & Drayton Duran
Brett Grayson
February 16, 2013
To Dearest Delores, Aaron, Jennifer, and Andrea. Even though distance only allowed us to catch up several times in the past few decades Mike has and always will be in my heart. It was an honour to have known him since I was four yrs old at Perrin AFB. He was a man that deserved utmost respect for all his achievements in both 'The Air' and with his family. Every time I fly - he will be there !!! From an 'Aussie Mate' - Rest in Peace Mike.
Tom Sullivan
February 16, 2013
A memorable time was spent years ago with Mike and Delores and Don and Jan Giroir. Being the son in law of the Giroirs and the husband of their daughter Deb, we all spent a long weekend in New Orleans together. I learned quickly that Mike was a fun loving man who genuinely made people feel welcome and at ease. Mike had a zest for life and affection for the others around him. He will be missed by many which ,I believe, is a testament to him in itself.
Tom and Deb Sullivan Aurora, Illinois
February 16, 2013
Dolores, OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY from florida. We shall miss his smile, laugh and friendship.Yes it has been over 20 years we met last in Las Vegas.
God Bless His soul.
If we can be of any assistance or help
give us a call 321-777-5669 or [email protected].
Helen and Jack (docbags)Baghdassarian
Stealth first Flight surgeon.
Sarah Jacobs
February 16, 2013
It was an honor to know Mike through the Stover family. My husband, Jason, became very fond of him during the quail hunts each year in the winter with the ol' boys club. He will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.
Sarah Stover Jacobs, Margate, FL
Fran Heller
February 16, 2013
My deepest sympathy to Mike's family... he was a great man. I so enjoyed working for him... I will never forget the busy but fun days.
Col USAF (Ret) & Mrs Steve Ladd
February 16, 2013
Mike was my Commander in the 78TFS at RAF Woodbridge. Passionate about the Squadron, the mission and his troops, he was a superb boss, fighter pilot, and friend. The last line of an old ode to a fighter pilot probably says it best: "...and when you are gone, the World will be a lesser place."
Elaine and I remember many good times together with Mike & Dolores in the UK and at Nellis--our sincere condolences to her and the family at this sad time.
Bruce Grayson, Gp Capt RAAF (Retd)
February 16, 2013
Mike, I am honoured and proud to have been able to call you a friend. We met and flew together for the first time in SEA as two junior officers - you in the USAF and I in the Australian air force. Subsequently our paths crossed several times as our careers progressed and each time I felt that our friendship developed even further. We were members of the ‘old school'. " Kick the tyres and light the fires - first into the air leads ".
Rest in peace my friend.
February 15, 2013
We will always treasure the times that
we spent together, the good food, great stories and the laughter. And
what a privelege it was to go hunting with Mike and his dad (Chief Yellow Knife)and hearing the stories of the clan and uncle Morrie.
He was a great commander and a true friend.
May God bless his family and know that we are here to help you any time you
need a hand or an ear. Jack & Janet Cornwell
Michelle Tieman (was once Preston)
February 15, 2013
To a well lived life with experiences and a family most dream about. Blessings and peace to those loved ones he left behind.
February 15, 2013
I will always remember Mike as the perfect example of a Dad...loving, respectful, and so much fun. My heart goes to you all. Much love, Misty Chadwick
Larry Adams
February 15, 2013
I was lucky enough to share elk hunting camps with Mike a time or two and remember his "Dump Cake". Always with a smile and a story. He will be missed.
February 15, 2013
Jane and I were deeply distressed to learn of Mike's passing. To me he was a great boss, a real character, and an all around good guy. Our condolences to Dolores and the family.
Bill and Jane Jacobs, Las Vegas
Jon Maxson
February 15, 2013
It was an honor and privelege working with Mike at the YMP as well as playing golf with him at Los Prados. Always a laugh. Always a smile. Our thoughts and prayers are with Dolores and the entire Harris clan.
Jon and Georgia Maxson
February 15, 2013
Mike it has been a Great Caper. Lee's Ferry, The Grand Canyon, quail hunts, Crooked Island. You made them all fun. God Speed. We will miss you so very much. David Stover
Marvin Bass
February 15, 2013
Delores and family, I am sorry to learn of Mike's passing. But we take Joy in knowing he lived a great life and enjoyed all of it. It was my honor (and fun) to serve under his command and leadership of the Bushmasters. Cheers to CinC Snake.
Marvin Bass
Ted McAdam
February 15, 2013
Thanks, Mike, for you're support and encouragement over the years both in the Air Force and as civilians. Safe travels in Heaven, dear friend. Ted
Colin And Lori Carr
February 14, 2013
A fantastic man who made our lives better. He was larger than life, full of spirit and always able to tell a great story. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Harris family.
Michelle Huskins
February 14, 2013
Jennifer and family - I'm so sorry for your loss! My heart hurts for you! Enjoy the memories that he's left you and may he rest in peace!
Love,
Michelle
Hank and Eileen Haden
February 14, 2013
My first fighter sqd/cc and what a great start. Even provided Aron to babysit our boys. The culmination of a 72 yr cosmic frog show, as Mike would say. Delores, our thoughts, hugs, love, and prayers are with you as you send your "buddy" on to a better life. Thanks for the memories and strong leadership, we love you Mike, see you on the other side.
Burt Ballentine
February 14, 2013
Mike took over the 78th at RAF Woodbridge and it was obvious we had a real fighter pilot for a boss. Touch the burners, pull into your climb, Mike, God speed.
Doug Robinson
February 14, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Dolores, Aaron, Jennifer and Andrea. Mike was a special friend and it was a significant time in my life to have been friends and warriors together. We shared the decisions and stresses in the 4450th of making sure that the number of F-117 takeoffs and landings matched. We shared a common love of the outdoors and the distaste for the crazy ideas that came from those "guys in the pin stripped suits". I can truly say that I am a better person for having known Mike Harris. Godspeed and God Bless you Dolores. With our love, Doug and Judy Robinson
Lou & Tina Gum
February 14, 2013
We've lost a warrior, a friend, and a real gentleman. I servered under Col. Harris, he believed in getting the job done and have fun while doing it. And over the years we have kept in contact, enjoyed our visit at the reunion with he and his lovely wife (Dolores). I met Dolores for the first time on a very hot day at Nellis, Col Harris was traveling and asked me to meet his wife and get her settled in. I did and what a wonderful lady, that day I will never forget. We have be buddie ever since. Mike (Boss) will be missed by all, as the Oituary state above he is one of a kind. I will miss that smile, that humor, that caring that he always showed. I've wittness the his love and caring for Dolores, evervytime we were together. God speed Col. "Mike" Harris, "wind beneath your wings."
February 14, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with Delores and the family. We did not know Mike really well but he was a mutual friend of my fraternity brother at OSU.
Gordon and Polly Hafenrichter Las Vegas
February 14, 2013
Precious remembrance to you, my lovely friend, Dolores, and to your beautiful family. Each time we met you and Mike, we knew how blessed you were to have one another. We know how dearly you have blessed others and know you will continue to do so.
God bless and comfort-keep you all, dear family, with His continual presence.
With our love to you,
Sue Ann and Doug Johnson
Tigard, Oregon
National Order of Daedalians
Steve "Bashful" Rapp, Col USAF (ret)
February 14, 2013
God Speed Bandit 167 on your final flight. Mike was an outstanding member of our Daedalian fraternity at Nellis AFB. He will be remember as a great fighter pilot, family man and mentor. VOLABAMUS VOLAMUS
Billy and Nicolette Hayes
February 14, 2013
My brothers and I had the privilege of growing up across the street from Col. Harris in Las Vegas. We can't remember ever seeing him without a smile on his face or in a bad mood. We're honored to have such an inspiring person in our memories of growing up. We'll all miss you and your positive energy. What a stud! Rest well old friend. All our love to Dolores and the Family.
Penny Niles McCullugh
February 14, 2013
It was truly an honor and privilege to work with Mike at YMP. His wit was unmatched by none. I still remember his wicked humor and all the laughs Fran and I had with surprise birthday parties, trips to "Mahogany Row", flak jackets and earthquakes. Delores, please accept my heartfelt condolence and prayers for your family during this time of loss. He will be fondly remembered and honored by all he touched.
Jane Harris
February 14, 2013
Remembering Mike, my other son, with loving thoughts. Mike was a great person and was also a war hero. He served our country with pride and was an inspiration to all who knew him. With love to the Harris Tribe.
Christina Pitch
February 14, 2013
Deepest sympathy from your Brian Head neighbors.
Jan Corbett
February 14, 2013
I met Mike and Delores in the UK (some 30 years gone by). They were great American ambassadors during their “tour”. I really admired them.
Delores, now you have a special guardian pilot to watch over you.
Love Jan (Dyer)
Mac and Cathy Hayes
February 14, 2013
One of the truly good guys- husband, father, grandfather, officer, pilot, outdoorsman and true friend to all who came in touch with him. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Delores and family.
American Heart Association
February 14, 2013
May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.
February 13, 2013
An honorable commander, who commanded with a firm yet patient touch. A salute to a fallen warrior.
Gil Yonashiro, MSgt, USAF, retired, 4450th TG
Sam Archuleta
February 13, 2013
Mike Harris was my last boss in the USAF, and I can say he was the best. As a new Commander, I learned from him just how it should be done. Lola and I will miss his great humor. Mike could talk to you and make you feel like the most important person in the world. To Dolores and the Harris tribe, I pledge our most heartfelt prayers and best wishes. God Bless you all and may he hold all of you in his loving hands.
Dick Guild
February 13, 2013
Mike was the finest of air warriors, a gentleman, and a pleasure to serve with. My deep sympathy to Dolores and family.
Barry & Loretta Stewart
February 13, 2013
God took one of the truly great ones, a remarkable man, leader, patriot and boss. We'll miss you Mike - see you on the 19th hole.
February 13, 2013
God Bless and keep you in the palm of his hand Mike.
Larry "Doc" Pettit
February 13, 2013
My thoughts and Prayers are with your family. Thank you for your leadership.
Respectfully,
Ron Brabec (MSgt, Ret_
Margi Perchetti
February 13, 2013
I worked with Mike during the F-117 days and Yucca Mountain Project. He was greatly admired and respected by everyone during both of these eras. I also had the honor to serve with him on the Stealth Fighter Association Board. He was the epitome of "An Officer and a Gentleman'. I will miss him and always remember all he stood for.
February 13, 2013
We wanted to let Delores and her family know that our thoughts and prayers are with them. We remember so many good times that we had with Mike and Delores.
Bob and Joyce Williams
Suzy Amos
February 13, 2013
Thoughts and prayers are with Dolores and their children.
SMSgt Ret. Frank Thomas 810794
February 13, 2013
It was a pleasure being involved with Col. Harris while assigned to 4450th. My heartfelt feelings and prayers to all his friends and family.
February 13, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Lori Anderson-Seattle ,Washington
Karl von Kessel
February 13, 2013
'Til we meet again, Bandit 167. Mike was a true American hero and an even better leader, mentor and friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with Dolores and family.
Kaye and Korky von Kessel, Bandit 221
John Stover
February 13, 2013
Michael was a great friend and comrade. We knew each other for 50 years and I cannot remember any quarrels. I can't say that about any other person, ever. He will be missed by me and many others. Rest in peace, my old and dear friend. Smokey Stover and family
David Walker
February 13, 2013
It was great joy to celebrate life with Mike. As a fellow 'Nam Vet, it was great to share "tall tails" and war stories. With the many SFA Reunions, it was great to share laughs and memories. Dolores, it is difficult at such a time to find the words that say the things that one can only hope will comfort you today, may the Lord bless you and your family. Right now, I can only think of that "Big Joyful Smile" that I always received from Mike . . . With our Deepest Sympathy, David and Terri Walker
February 13, 2013
My heart goes out to the family and the bandits. Bill Elliott
Donald Artean
February 13, 2013
My heart goes out to Dolores and family. Mike was a true friend.fellow
pilot,and a great human being.
February 13, 2013
Lori,Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult.
John and Susan Hardberger
Rolla, Missouri
PeTe RATCLIFFE
February 13, 2013
My condolences to his family at this time
John Zink
February 13, 2013
Bandit 167, leader and friend. I served in the original F-117 program at Tonopah Test Range when Mike was the commander. Awesome and surreal times.
My wife, Binnie and I became friends with Mike and Dolores and stayed in touch. We were fortunate to share quality time with them in San Diego last June for a F-117 reunion. We will treasure many fond memories.
Our sincerest sympathy to the family. Col (Ret) John and Binnie Zink. Bandit 214
Ron and Marilyn LaBar
February 13, 2013
We were so sorry to hear about Mike's passing. We have many memories of him an your family. Remember the trout fishing trips! Love to you all. He was such an honorable man.
Mike POCHOWSKI
February 13, 2013
I was lucky enough to have worked around Mike and his crew. Their respect for him showed me that he was a great man to follow. I only wished that I could have worked with him more.
Michael Voegele
February 13, 2013
It was a privilege to know and work with Mike Harris. I respected his abilities in working with people, and it was a genuine pleasure to interact with him - a professional in every sense of the word. My condolences to Dolores and all of their family.
Bill & Terri Aten
February 13, 2013
Please accept our deepest sympathies. Mike was one of those few "special" people that make a profound difference in our lives and he will continue to live on in our memories and in our hearts. May God bless your family and guide you down the road ahead. Rest in Peace Mike.
February 13, 2013
Mike was always a joy to be around. We treasure our memories with Mike and Delores up at Brian Head. Our thoughts and prayers are with Delores and the family. John and Joanne
Randy & Jean Jacobs
February 13, 2013
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Showing 1 - 80 of 80 results
Make a Donation
in MICHAEL HARRIS's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Memorial Events
for MICHAEL HARRIS
How to support MICHAEL's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor MICHAEL HARRIS's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
