James Donald Harris

Obituary James (Jim) Donald Harris Jim Harris died April 23, 2015 at the age of 98. Born in Wichita, Kansas to Robert and Florence, and raised in Bakersfield, CA. along with his twin sister Jane. Jim had been a Tacoma resident for 74 years. He began his life in Tacoma at McChord Field where he was assigned with 8th AF as a driver in the motor pool and was discharged in October 1945. After leaving the military he worked for a brief time driving a cab before going to work as a bus driver at Pierce Transit where he retired after 32 years. Post retirement employment included Metro Parks Tacoma and Ghilarducci Florists, before he went on to work at Browns Flowers for an additional 17 years. He was a long time member of St. Rita Catholic Church. He was an avid sports fan and baseball was one of his favorites. Throughout his life he attended numerous games at Cheney Stadium, the Kingdome, and Safeco Field. Another love was bowling - he was a career bowler both as an individual as well as with teams. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, sister, niece and his loving wife Catherine of 42 years. He is survived by 7 children: Agnes (Bob) McLean, Seal Rock, OR, James (SuAnne) Harris, Kathleen (Bob) Erwin, Gig Harbor, Richard (Evan) Harris, Fox Island, Peter (Dana) Harris, Spanaway, and Patty and Dee Harris, Tacoma; 16 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild. Dad (Papa), you will be greatly missed but your love and our memories will last our entire lifetimes. We love you, say hi to mom for us, and rest in peace. A rosary will be recited 7:00 p.m., Thursday, April 30, 2015 at Gaffney Funeral Home. A service will be held on Friday, May 1, 2015 at 11:00 a.m., Calvary Cemetery Cloisters Chapel, 5212, 70th St W, Tacoma, WA. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be given to St. Rita Catholic Church, 1403 So. Ainsworth, Tacoma, WA. 98405. Inurnment at Calvary Cemetery. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneycares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.