Richard Edson Harris passed away peacefully on December 1, 2013. He was born on April 10, 1929 to Dale Walter Harris and Luella Francis Christenson Harris. He grew up in Salt Lake City and attended Douglas Grade School, Roosevelt Junior High School and East High School before entering the University of Utah where he eventually graduated from Law School with a Juris Doctorate Degree. He served in the United States Air Force in the Judge Advocate Division for two years, and in the reserve for six years during and following the Korean War (attaining the rank of captain).
He married Sara Elaine Robbins in the Salt Lake Temple on June 10, 1953. This year they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. They are the parents of eight children.
Richard practiced law. An attorney by profession, he specialized in estate planning and tax law. In addition he founded and oversaw a company called Corporate Development Corporation, concentrating on mergers and acquisitions. Richard traveled extensively throughout the world for his clients and business, as well as for pleasure, especially in Europe, South America, and Asia.
He was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and served a mission to Hawaii as a young man. He later served in various callings including several stake missions, Gospel Doctrine teacher for over 35 years, bishop, and president of the Connecticut Hartford Mission.
When asked what should be in his obituary, he replied, "He was born, he died, and in between he tried." And indeed he did try. His was a life of service to his family, friends, and anyone he perceived had a need. Whenever anyone asked how he was, his standard reply was, "I am sweet, kind, thoughtful, considerate, loving, intelligent and humble." And he was. He will be missed for his big smile, his warm welcome and big hug, his thoughtfulness and concern, for his generosity, for his wisdom, and for his ability to solve problems.
He loved all sports, but golf was a particular favorite, and although he showed no mercy on the golf course, he loved to help others learn the sport.
He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Norma Woodland. He is survived by his brother, Thorold Dale Harris, his wife, Elaine Harris, and eight children, Karen (George) Tate, Kristine (Michael) Munnerlyn, Diane (Greg) Warnock, Carolyn (David) Francom, Richard R. Harris (Melissa Michie), Joseph R. (Julie) Harris, Robert R. (Shayla) Harris, and Suzanne Harris, fifty grandchildren and thirty-eight great grandchildren. They all deeply love and appreciate him.
Funeral services will be held Friday, December 6, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. at the Olympus Hills Ward, 4176 South Adonis Drive. Friends and family may visit Thursday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Larkin Mortuary, 260 East South Temple, and Friday at the Olympus Hills Ward from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. prior to services.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Perpetual Education Fund c/o 1450 N. University Avenue, Provo, Utah 84604.
