Robert "Bob" Edward Harris

Robert “Bob” Edward Harris passed away peacefully on October 16, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. Bob was born in Yatesboro, PA on November 23, 1933, to Ernest “Duke” and Hazel (Wise) Harris. Bob came to Alaska in 1949 and lived in Eska while his dad worked at the Jonesville Mine. Bob graduated from Palmer High School in 1951 and, after a year of college in Colorado, he moved back to Alaska to attend University of Alaska Fairbanks where he joined the ROTC. After graduation, he entered the military full time as a regular Army officer. He signed up with an Infantry commission and completed Basic Infantry Officer’s Candidate School in Ft. Benning, GA.

Bob served in the military for 25 years and retired in 1980 after his las tour of duty in Alaska. He made Palmer his home and spent the winter months playing golf in Thousand Palms, CA.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Duke and Hazel, and his youngest brother John Paul “Jackie” Harris. He is survived by his life partner Ellie Thomason, his four children Kathy, Steve, Sandy and Rebecca, eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his brother, William “Bill” Harris, his cousin Susan Harris and her two sons, and many more cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at the Palmer Elks Club on May 4 at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Last Frontier Honor Flight, the American Cancer Society, or the Palmer Elks Club.