Edward Melvin Harris

Obituary Edward m. Harris "You ran the good race And fought the good fight" Edward M. Harris, 77, peacefully passed away on Feb 16, 2008 with his family at his side after a struggle with complications from esophageal cancer. Born in Wilkeson, WA on July 22, 1930 he grew up during the depression era where he learned early in life to work hard, to be inventive and to be generous with his time & talents. He proudly graduated from Buckley High School in 1948. Always relishing these early relationships, he kept in close contact with his classmates. He served in the Army for 2 years. He was employed by the City of Tacoma, Dept. of Refuse retiring in 1992. Ed married Dorothy Gustin of Tacoma, and they had a long, loving and devoted marriage of 48 years that has been a wonderful example to all. With our mother's loving care of Dad during the past 6 months in particular, "In sickness and in health" became far more than just a phrase. Ed will be remembered for being a "farm boy" at heart and was proud of the Black Angus he raised. He enjoyed celebrating with family and friends, camping at La Wis Wis; car trips around the USA, going to classic car shows; meeting his friends wach morning at Circle K where the ‘current problems of the day were solved'. He was known for his strong hands and keen mind, his love of both telling and hearing a good story, his gift of gab and his outgoingness, and most of all his quiet pride in his wife and family. Ed is survived by his wife, children Cheri Harris, Arne Harris and Charlene (Gary) Campbell, grandchildren Crystal Harris, Amanda & Spencer Campbell; sisters, Opal Follin, Iola Herstad, Lois Carmen & Ruth Sanford. He is preceded in death by his parents George and Viola Harris and a brother, Milton. He was a great man of honesty and integrity and will be greatly missed by all. A time of Remembrances for sharing stories will be held on Wed. Feb 20 at 7pm at Gaffney Funeral Home. A Mass celebrating his life will be held on Thursday, Feb. 21 at 2:00 pm at St. John of the Woods: 9903 ?" 24th Ave. E. Tacoma WA In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Habitat for Humanity, PO Box 7124 Tacoma, WA 98417 or L'Arche Tahoma Hope, 12303 ?" 36th Ave. E. Tacoma, WA 98446. Please leave online condolences at www.GaffneyCares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.