Ronald Raymond Harris

Resided in Rapid River, MI
Died July 6, 2018

Ronald Raymond Harris, 60, of Rapid River, passed away Friday July 6, 2018 at the Upper Peninsula Health Systems in Marquette following a lengthy illness.

Ron was born January 16, 1958 in Romulus, MI the son of Donald and Taiko (Kobayashi) Harris. He was raised in Romulus until the age of 15 when his family moved to Ensign. He graduated from Rapid River High School in 1976. Ron played football where he was Wolverine All Conference both on Offense and Defense. Ron worked for Mead Paper Company from 1981 to 2015 where he was a 1st Class Pipefitter. He also served at the Union Vice President, Union Mediator and Union Steward for United Paper Workers International Local 110.

Ron was an avid sports fan, coaching 5th & 6th grade basketball, 7th & 8th grade football, Minor League Baseball and he was a High School Football referee. Ron also played Escanaba City League Basketball for several years.

Ron was a former Rapid River Lions Club member and a former member of the Michigan State Pistol League. Ron was a creative craftsman building houses, concrete work, and more, but most recently, building a 40’ train which is enjoyed by people in both Rapid River and Nahma. He was generous man helping family, friends, neighbors and even strangers, whenever he was needed, he gave. His love for grandchildren was well known including his grand-dogs, Kai and Harley.

In addition to his wife Colleen “Petey”, survivors include:

Mother:
Taiko Harris of Gladstone

Children:
Ronald (Ashley) Harris of Rapid River
Erin (Francisco) Diaz of Fort Mitchell, Alabama
Jodi Harris of Peshtigo, WI

Grandchildren:
Sean Harris, Korinne Diaz, Maya Diaz, Haiden Edwards, Teaka Edwards, Terrell Harris and Taryn Harris

Brothers:
Donald (Loreen) Harris of Marinette, WI
Lonnie Harris of Romulus, MI
Arnie (Lisa) Harris of Rapid River, MI

Sisters:
Medori (Don) Kay of Westland, MI
Taiko (Bruce) Goodman of Gladstone, MI
In addition to his father, his sister, Alice Gray and brother, Danny Harris preceded Ron in death.

Ron’s family will receive friends on Saturday July 14, 2018 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. Sharing by family and friends will follow at 4:00 pm. Luncheon will follow at the Rapid River Lions Club.

15 Tributes for “Ronald Raymond Harris”

    My BEST friend I will miss you . I will always have you in my heart too many memories that only we know. May your / our family remember the giving person that you were. I MISS YOU ALREADY

    So sorry for you loss Petey. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you. Hang in there and if you need anything, we will come running…

    If anything is needed around Isabella Petey, young Ron or anyone else- call us or you know where to find me.

    Anytime for anything, forever.

    Damn good friend.

    Coleen; Linda and I are very sorry and our prayers are with you… we fondly remember your visit with us in New Braunfels. Uncle Len.

    I along with the rest of my family would like to extend our sympathy to Petey, and the entire Harris family. Ron and I met many years ago in high school. Ron was a fierce competitor in sports and in life. I am glad to have called him my friend. I will miss you my friend.

    My Condolences goes out to his family. I knew Ron for many years from our younger High school days of hanging out in Rapid River, to working together at the Escanaba Paper mill. Ron was a fine gentleman and fun to be around. He had a infectious laugh that I will all was remember. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him. Rest in peace my friend !

    To my Family : Ronald will be truly missed. We all loved him so much. He had such a great personality and a special way of making everyone feel welcome and loved. I am sorry I am unable to be there with you at this time, but I am Praying for each and everyone of you. We love you and if Zack and I can help you in any way Please just let us know, We will continue to keep you in our Prayers. Trust in the Lord with All your Heart,Lean not on your own understanding, In always acknowledge him and He shall Direct your Path.

    Growing up with you all was a blessing. My love, thoughts and prayers to you all. While we may be separated by miles, or earth vs Heaven, you will always be in my heart. Rest in peace Ron.

    Colleen, so sorry for your loss. Won’t be able to make he service but wanted you to know you are in my prayers. God bless and hold you close today and I’m the days to come.

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