Richard "Dick" James Harris, 91, of Valparaiso, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 19, 2024. Born on March 3, 1933, in Elkhart, Indiana, he was the cherished son of Lowell Harold and Lucille Katherine (Hand) Harris. Dick was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Nancy Kay Harris. He leaves behind his devoted wife of many years, Sharon Hertha (Strefling) Harris, and his beloved children: Cynthia Lynn (Harris) Gallee (Anthony Uhrick), and Brian Harris (Kelly). He was the proud grandfather of Hannah Elizabeth (Gallee) Downing and Jonathan Robert Gallee, and the great-grandfather of Luca Ryan Downing.
Dick's journey began at Purdue University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism and played the saxophone in the Purdue Band. His commitment to service led him to be drafted into the U.S. Army, where he was a part of the Nike missile defense program. For 30 years, Dick dedicated himself to his work at Bethlehem Steel, where he eventually retired. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he was a lifelong member of Faith Lutheran Church. Above all, Dick was a man who loved his family deeply. He cherished the time spent fishing and boating at Little Fish Lake in Michigan, and his passion for reading was something he shared with his children, instilling in them a lifelong love of books.
Dick will be lovingly remembered by his family, friends, and especially by his wife, Sharon, who cared for him with unwavering dedication during his long illness. His legacy of love, kindness, and family devotion will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
A visitation will be held Friday, August 23, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Moeller Funeral Home, with funeral service beginning at 12:00 PM. Burial will follow at Angelcrest Cemetery. Donations in Richard Harris’ name may be made to Faith Lutheran Church in Valparaiso.
GUESTBOOK
Sharon, Cyndy, Brian and Family, Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you today. Richard was the love of your lives and will be missed. His faith, lets you know that he is in the arms of His Lord, Jesus. Peace and blessings to all of you. -Betty Nass
To Sharon and your family: I was sorry to hear the news of Dick’s passing. I worked in his office at Bethlehem Steel from the mid 1970’s to the early 1980’s, and have nothing but good memories of him. He was a great co-worker and friend, and always a pleasure to be around. He was well thought of by the entire IE department. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers at this time. -Bob & Tammy Delcourt
