Obituary | Kenneth DeWain Harris - Fri, Jun 15, 2012
Kenneth DeWain Harris - December 1, 1954 - June 15, 2012
Ken passed away on Friday, June 15, 2012 after a short illness. He was a man who loved books, movies, and his family.
Ken was born in Grand Prairie, TX, on December 1, 1954, but grew up in California, Texas and Arkansas. He joined the US Navy when he was 17 as an aviation ordinance-man aboard the USS Enterprise. He turned 18 in Singapore. He was also deployed on the USS John F. Kennedy, where he served in the Mediterranean and Vietnam. In the late 70’s, Ken re-enlisted in the TAR program, as an active duty reservist, and was stationed at Oak Harbor, WA. Over his navy career, Ken served in 3 squadrons: VAQ-131, VP-69 , and VAQ-309. Upon discharge from the Navy, Ken worked for many years for JC Penney in California, Nevada, and Texas.
Ken is survived by his wife, Cheryl Lynn of Carrollton; sons, Daniel Harris of Carrollton and Edward Harris and his wife, Jennifer of Crossroads; great niece, Kelli Rice of Delaware and cousin, Molly Morehead of Grand Prairie, and many other relatives and friends.
A memorial service will be held for Ken Harris on June 30, 2012, beginning at 5:30 pm at First Christian Church in Lewisville. Because of his great love for movies and games, his family feels the best way to honor his life would be to have a public viewing of his favorite movie, “The Legend of 1900”. For those who are not great movie fans, there will be his favorite table games, poker, board games and dominoes. There will be snacks, and, most likely, treats such as slow smoked brisket and pulled pork.
Other than beginning the movie around 6:00, there is no set agenda, there will be no structured “events”, and any who want to step in for a few minutes, an hour, or the entire time are welcome.
Our goal is simply to gently fellowship and remember a man who was a soul mate, a beloved father, and a loyal friend.
Ken was a mischievous man who loved his family deeply, and his absence from our lives will be deeply felt. Ken’s wishes were to be buried at sea by the United States Navy. His wishes will be honored. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be given in honor of Ken to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).