Russell Edward Harris

Racine – Russell E. Harris, 76, received the promise of eternal life on Wednesday, March 13, 2013. He was born in Racine on November 14, 1936, son of the late Russell and Minnie (nee: Zuidweg) Harris.  On September 29, 1956, Russell was united in marriage at St. Joseph Catholic Church to the love of his life, Phyllis Jean (nee: Crocco) Harris.

Russ graduated from Horlick High School in 1955.  He played on Horlick’s very first baseball team.  Russ then faithfully served his country in the United States Army.  After a stint at Oster in Racine, he was a production planner for American Motors until his retirement in 1992.  Russ was a loyal “brand” man and drove AMC/Chrysler/Jeep products for his entire life.  He loved playing softball and bowling with his friends.

Russ was an avid Wisconsin sports fan.  He could always be found rooting for the Packers, Brewers, Bucks, Golden Eagles, and Badgers.  Russ also loved to watch and play golf.  He was dedicated to manicuring his yard to perfection and always had the best lawn on the block.  Russ also enjoyed playing Texas Hold ‘Em with his son, Rusty, and cribbage with his late brother-in-law, Duane.  He was a family man and cherished the time he spent with his family.  Russ will be dearly missed by all who loved him.  His last request to Phyllis was to tell their children, their families, and all of his other relatives that he loved them and will miss them.

Russ leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of over 56 years, Phyllis Harris of Racine; children, Ken (Dawn) Harris, Mike (Peggy) Harris, Patrick Harris, Rusty “Russ, Jr.” Harris, all of Racine; grandchildren, Breanna (DeMont) Mitchell of Jacksonville, FL, Natalie Harris of Green Bay, Ellen Harris, Claire Harris, Sam Harris, all of Racine; great-grandson, DJ Mitchell; sister, Arlene (John) Sorenson of Waterford; sisters-in-law, Toni Eucalano, Melly (Jack) Boone, Jenny Gentz, Rita (Ben) Bernatovich; other relatives and dear friends too numerous to mention.  In addition to his parents, Russ is preceded in death by his sisters, Gladys (Charles) Simanek, Muriel (Harvey) Kraft; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Anthony (Caroline) Crocco; brothers-in-law, Tony Eucalano, and Duane Gentz.

A memorial service with full military honors will be celebrated on Saturday, March 16, 2013, 5:00pm, at Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home and Crematory, 4600 County Line Road, with Rev. Mark R. Jones officiating.  Visitation will be from 3:30pm until the time of the service.  In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested memorials to the Wisconsin Humane Society of Racine, PETA, or Wisconsin Right to Life.