Michael Joseph Harris, of San Francisco, CA, passed away September 6, 2015 while living his life as he did every day: being kind and friendly, loving his family, caring for others, embracing fun, and having a constant smile and an unassuming gracious warmth. Michael leaves behind joyous memories for so many that he touched, particularly his parents Jan and Peter, his brothers David and Richard, with whom he had an especially close bond, and the love of his life, Kelly Wells. Those who knew Michael really loved him, and just as important, they really liked him. This was a young man who was real, sincere, a great listener, always interested, full of humor with the attendant laughter, smart, and who absolutely embraced life.

Michael was born August 22, 1989 in New York City and moved to Atherton, CA as a young boy. His good looks went from adorable as a toddler to strappingly handsome by the age of 26. Those who knew him best would remark at how square his jawline appeared, and how both sides were truly his "best" side. Michael was a passionate athlete and sports fan, playing basketball at Menlo School, serving as Head Team Manager for the University of San Diego men's basketball team, and remaining active on the court through his adult life. He was proud to coach the Menlo Knights varsity team as an assistant. He loved the Warriors, the Giants, and most of all, the 49ers, where he had worked as a teenager.

Michael graduated from the University of San Diego with a B.A. in Developmental Psychology and a minor in English. He joined the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity and worked as a research assistant for the university's Psychology department. Michael was named the 2012 Student of the Year for Psychology Research. (His parents were impressed; his fraternity brothers, not as much).

Following graduation, Michael moved to San Francisco and embarked on a career in psychology that he embraced with passion and a huge heart. He completed his master's in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University just four months before his death and with great enthusiasm joined the counseling faculty at his alma mater, Menlo School. He surely was to make a huge impact in the profession, with his focus on helping adolescents and families.

Michael took writing seriously. And he was seriously good at writing. His blog, emails, Facebook posts and letters to friends and family were works of art. He was recently developing a screenplay on the advice of an agent who had discovered his writings. His written voice was a unique blend of humor, wit and blind optimism.

Michael turned the most mundane moments into special times. His laugh was infectious, his smile always bright and his fantasy football accomplishments legendary. With Michael, there are only positive things to say. He will truly be missed by many friends and a broad extended family, though his stories and his endless giving will live on in all of the people he touched.

A Celebration of Michael will begin at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, October 3, 2015 at Menlo Park Presbyterian Church, 950 Santa Cruz Avenue, Menlo Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Michael Harris Foundation. For information, contact [email protected].

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Sep. 26 to Sep. 27, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Harris

8 Entries

October 3, 2015

We are deeply sorry for your loss. Kelly's Uncle Glenn and Aunt Joan are our dear friends. We have been praying for your family.

Jim and Donna Pirotte
Kansas City

October 2, 2015

We are holding you in our thoughts and prayers. I hope over time you will find comfort in ways meaningful to you. Sending much love to you all.

Joyce Miller Ricktor

October 1, 2015

Jan and Peter, I am so deeply saddended with this tragic news. My heart goes out to you and your family. I remember Michael from Little League days with my son, Matthew. What a beautiful boy I remember and successful young man he became. You are in my prayers and thoughts forever.

Joyce Miller Ricktor

Jane Tight

September 28, 2015

Michael was a truly wonderful young man. We wish we'd known him better. He'll live on in the lives of his family and his friends. Can't get over the tragic loss. The Tights

Eileen Swoboda

September 27, 2015

As I think of Michael's passing, and of his loved ones left behind, I think of what is real and what is temporal. All of you who have known Michael speak about what is real his love, his joy, his spirit and that remains now and forever. Much love to each of you.

Diana Bergeson

September 27, 2015

A beautifully written piece about such a wonderful young man who was part of a wonderful family. Our best to you all during this difficult time. May he live on forever in all whom knew him.

Mary Sue Tate

September 27, 2015

What an impressive young man we remarked to one another upon meeting Michael Harris at the wedding of our daughter and son in law. Our son-in-law is Michael's cousin. At the reception we were pleasantly surprised to find that Michael was sitting near us. We shared small talk and pleasntries throughout the meal and later we both mentioned again just how impressive Michael was. It is not surprising that he pursued studies that would lead him to help other people., he had a quiet unassuming way of reaching them. Those who knew him best would most likely say he was empathetic and one who knew just what makes others tick. It is such a huge loss to not only his family and friends but also to those whose lives he would have touched. Our hearts are with all of those family and friends who feel such pain at this time.

Charlie and Mary Sue Tate

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