Donald Harris

Donald John Harris Sr. passed away peacefully at St. Joseph¹s Hospice on April 8, 2018 following an inspirational journey, one month before celebrating his 80th birthday.

We are forever grateful for the dedicated and compassionate team of Health Care Professionals and Supportive Staff of St. Joseph¹s Care Group. Sincere thanks to Dr. Chris Alison for many years of exceptional care and friendship. Thanks also to Bob Lepere, Arlo Morris and Walter Head for their unwavering love and support.

Don had a deep love of music and dedicated his life to song. As a life member of the Fort William Male Choir, Don cherished the camaraderie and respect amongst the members and the many friendships and memories that developed.

Don was a man with an unbelievable ability to connect with people. He never forgot a name or a face. His mind and memory were sharp and very precise. People were his passion. He taught us all how to live life fully. Summer evenings were spent on the front deck at home for happy hour with friends, who will remember Don being proclaimed mayor after the passing of Lorne Sundell. Invitations were never necessary for gatherings on the deck. This was also the case throughout the many years of camping, both in Grand Marais and Pass Lake. The last 18 summers in Pass Lake were enjoyed relaxing on the deck with gatherings of friends, playing beanbag and gazing into the sunsets. Some very special friendships grew out of Pass Lake. Don always looked forward to the wonderful dinners and laughter with Neil and Ruthie. Don had the ability to bring people together wherever he went.

One attribute that stands out above all others was Don¹s tenacious attitude and love for life. He never wavered; even under the most adverse situations.

Don was born into a family of six boys and was raised in Fort William. He worked hard his entire life at various careers.

Don was predeceased by his parents Alfred and Berna Harris and brothers Albert (Muriel), Arthur (Lynda) Robert (Marion).

Don is survived by his loving partner of 36 years Penny Ralph, his children Donald Harris Jr., Katherine McKee (John), Clint Harris (Kimberly) and their
mother Eleanor, Rachel Parker (Scott) and her mother Linda, grandchildren
Jesse (Katrina) and Celeste Harris (and their mother Judi Harris), Niall
(Amy) and Eric (Stephanie) McKee, Mackenzie and Conner Harris (and their mother Shelley Harris), Emily and Natalie Parker and his Great-Grandson Jude Harris, Penny¹s daughter¹s Andrea Best (Mike) and Deanna Gamble, grandson London Gamble (Brittney) and great granddaughter Ellie, granddaughter Harper Gamble and great grandson Hunter, his twin brother Ron (Victoria) Harris of Bayfield, ON and youngest brother George (Peggy) Harris of Estero, Florida. Don leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins including Liz McNally in Tasmania as well as many dear friends.

The funeral service will be held Saturday, April 14, 2018 at 1:00 pm at Sargent & Son Funeral Home, officiated by Deborah Kraft.

Donations in Don¹s memory may be made to The Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation or The Salvation Army.