Robert Lee Harris

Robert Lee Harris

August 4, 1933 – April 17, 2023

ELKHART- Robert Lee Harris, 89, of Elkhart, passed away Monday April 17, 2023, at Greenleaf Health Campus in Elkhart.  He was born August 4, 1933, in Elkhart, Indiana to Dale & Gertrude (Fergison)Harris.

  On March 1, 1958, in Elkhart, Indiana he married Evelyn Marie Hunsberger.  Robert adopted Bruce and Dixie Harris in 1958.  Robert and Evelyn were married 41 years when she passed away on February 1, 1999, in Elkhart, Indiana.

  Robert graduated from Elkhart High School in 1951.  He joined the US Air Force after graduation and was stationed in Fairbanks, Alaska.  While in the service he trained to be a mechanic working on Jet Airplanes.  When he returned home after serving his country he worked at Miles/Bayer as a machinist for 42 years.  Robert was a member of the Quarter Century Club at Miles, was a union Stewart at Miles and was in the bowling and golf leagues with Miles.  He also was a member of the Elkhart Moose Lodge #599, a member of the NRA, the VFW and he enjoyed camping.

  Surviving is his daughter Dixie Harris of Elkhart, Indiana; his grandchildren, Dustin (Betsy) Tavernier of Bradenton, FL, Dodie (John) Gerger of Granger, IN; his great-grandchildren Cooper and Tucker Tavernier of Bradenton, FL, Kody (Jacqulyn) Gerger of Indianapolis, IN and Collin Gerger of Granger, IN.  Also, there is 1 Great- great grandchild Baby Gerger of Indianapolis on the way.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Evelyn, his son Bruce Harris, a brother Norm Harris, and sister-in-law Barbara Harris.  Also preceding in death was a niece, Marianne Harris, a nephew Robert Dale Harris and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A graveside service for Robert will be held at Rice Cemetery on Monday April 24, 2023, at 11:00 a.m.  Pastor Gary Lewis from the Bristol Community Church will render the service and full military honors will follow.

Walley-Mills-Zimmerman Funeral Home is entrusted with his care.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Ascera Care Hospice or the Elkhart County Humane Society. 

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