Raymond “Bear” Howard Harris Sr.

Raymond “Bear” Howard Harris Sr., 60, died July 16, 2012, at Providence Alaska Medical Center in Anchorage.

Bear, as he was known to his family and friends, was born Jan. 26, 1952, in Philadelphia, Penn., the son of Raymond and Marie Rita (Disanti) Harris.

He worked for GCI as a satellite communication technician and also was a cook for several restaurants. He served his country in the U.S. Air Force for seven years. He moved to Alaska in 1988 and lived in Wasilla.

Services will be held at a later date.

Bear loved fishing and hunting with D.D., “burning wood” at the campsites they camped at and gourmet cooking. He also enjoyed four-wheeling, snowmachining and helping his friends.

“He was a kind and loving man who was always willing to give a helping hand wherever needed, and would give the shirt off his back to anyone if they needed it,” his family said. “He has made a significant impact on all the lives he has touched through his life’s journey. He was the thread who bound us all together and we will miss Bear deeply.”

Bear is survived by his loving companion of 24 years, Kimberly Van Bebber of Wasilla; and ex-wife, Yvonne Harris of Santa Clara, Calif. He is also survived by his sons, Vincent, Victor and Raymond H. and wife Rose Harris Jr., all of Calif.; grandchildren, Bobbi and Jayden of Colorado, Natalie of Arizona and Justina of California; and sisters, Shirley and Linda, also of California.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond H. and Marie Rita Harris.

The family suggests memorials in Bear’s memory be made c/o Kimberly Van Bebber to NorthRim Bank, account No. 7101984867.

Arrangements entrusted to Alaskan Heritage Memorial Chapel and Crematory Wasilla.