Francis J. Harris

Francis "Frank" John Harris, age 87, of Akron, passed away Tuesday, May 9, 2023.

He was born on November 18, 1935 in Akron, the son of the late Robert and Martha Harris.

Dad was born and raised on N. Adams Street. He and his brothers made life-long friends in the neighborhood, many of them joining the military together. Dad still enjoyed monthly breakfasts with his buddies up until his health declined.

Dad joined the United States Air Force in 1956, and served during the Korean Conflict. He was proud of his service, and wore his "Veteran" hats with pride.

Dad was a loyal employee of Highway Products, Massey Ferguson, and eventually retired from Wrayco. He was always a union man, and during his time at Massey was elected as the union president. He believed in what the union stood for, and diligently represented members during negotiations.

If you knew our Dad, you knew three things: 1) He was Irish and proud of it, 2) He was a die-hard Democrat. Period. The end. No discussion. 3) He never forgot where he came from, and was never going to leave. And he didn't!

Dad was also known to enjoy Friday nights at Joe's All Star in earlier years. There were plenty of shenanigans amongst the "Notorious Harris" brothers, but they were always there for each other. Dad had a special friendship with his brother-in-law, and I'm sure no one really knows all the "adventures" they had.

Pa loved his grandchildren, and from the time each one was old enough he would take them to the park, walking around the block, or pushing them in strollers or on bikes with training wheels. He attended school events and spent many, many hours at sporting events. He was especially good at sneaking snacks to the girls when others told them no.

Dad loved his whole family, and will be missed by all.

"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; Love leaves a memory no one can steal."

He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Martha; his sisters, Patricia (Pat) Davis, Doris Maiert, Martha (Sparky) Long and Margaret Holt; his former wife and friend, Marlene, and his future son-in-law, Donald Butcher.

He is survived by his children, Susan Lynn (Mel) Lee, Karen Harouff, and Franklin (Tammy) Harris. His grandchildren, Stephanie (David), Amber (Tim), Nicole, Crystal, Tiffanie (Matt) and Bethanie. His great-grandchildren, Hayden, Blaine, Ella, Nevaeh, Nolan, Colton and Everett. His brothers, Vincent (Bing) Harris and Joe Harris, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Dad is being cremated, and a private family memorial will be held later this month.

All arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Newcomer Funeral Home, Akron, Ohio.