Obituary published on Legacy.com by Slay Memorial Funeral Center - Aubrey on Dec. 22, 2025.
Ronald Dean Harris, 74, passed away Thursday, December 18, 2025, in
Aubrey, TX. Ronald was born February 25, 1951, in
Minneapolis, MN, to Gerald and Arletta (Caylor) Harris. He married Kathleen Gugat August 9, 1975, in
Minneapolis, MN.
Ron lived a life marked by faith, dedication, and deep love for his family. He spent 39 years as a tax manager at CHS, where he was known for his commitment, integrity, and strong work ethic. His career reflected the same steadiness and reliability that defined the rest of his life.
Ron shared 50 loving years of marriage with his wife, Kathy. Together, they built a life rooted in devotion and partnership, moving five times along the way, with their final move bringing them to Texas. No matter where they lived, Ron took pride in making each house a home.
He graduated from Minnehaha Academy in 1969 and later earned his degree from Bethel University in 1973. After marriage, Ron discovered a passion for woodworking and home improvement, finding joy and purpose in creating and fixing things with his hands. He also enjoyed bowling, spending countless hours gardening, and, most especially, designing and expanding his cherished Department 56 Christmas village displays. Year after year, he lovingly added to his villages, continuing the tradition with determination and joy despite health challenges.
Ron gave his life to Jesus as a young boy and lived out his faith daily, allowing it to guide his values, actions, and relationships. His faith was a quiet but powerful foundation throughout his life.
Ronald had a great sense of humor. Though soft-spoken at first, once you got to know him, his warmth and personality shone through, leaving those around him smiling and at ease.
One of Ron's greatest joys was being "Boppa" to his three beloved granddaughters. He adored them deeply, and his love for them was evident in every moment they shared. Ron will be remembered for his faith, kindness, perseverance, and the lasting legacy of love he leaves with his family.
Ronald is preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and Arletta; brother, Douglas Harris; and sister, Judith Murphy.
Ronald is survived by his wife Kathy Harris of
Aubrey, TX; three sons, Jason Harris of
Eden Prairie, MN, Jeremy Harris and wife, Heather of
Ramsey, MN, and Jonathan and wife, Vickie of
Savage, MN; three grandchildren, Klarissa, Noelle and Isabelle; sister, Barbara and husband, Jerry Pottorff of Eagan, MN; sister-in-law Lu Harris of Raleigh, NC; and brother-in-law, Gary Murphy of Vadnais Heights, MN.
A memorial service for Ronald will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be shared at www.slaymemorial.com