Obituary of Bernard Harris

 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father Bernard on June 6th, 2017 just before his 90th birthday. Bernard was the beloved son of Pete Harris and Viola Williams, born in Roanoke, Va. on June 11/24, 1927. Yes two dates, to which there is a story. ( the doctor being late to submit his birth certificate).

He attended Lucy Addison HS in Roanoke, Va. before joining and serving in the US Army for 2 years, 1945-1947, both in France and Germany. Bernard spoke quite frequently about his exploits in those countries and at times would use German phrases in his conversation with friends and family. I recall one time in Puerto Vallarta when he met a German family who was visiting there and held them in a conversation recalling names of places he had been to while in the Army, and of course his famous phrase "sprechen Sie Deutsch". He was proud to serve his country. Bernard met and married Evelyn in 1949. The two friends say, made a dynamic and inspirational couple. Bernard and Evelyn had three children Latelle, Laverne and Henike and were proud of them. He adored his grandchildren, Trina, Erik, and Jordan, as well as his great grandchildren, Sabrya, Omar and Amaya, who regardless of sex was called "hey buddy". He is survived by two sons-in-law, Ronald Cabrijan, who helped Latelle care for him for many years, and Paul "Barry" Butts who ives in Toronto, Canada He enjoyed travelling with his family regardless of location, Cancun, Trinidad, Puerto Vallarta, Poconos, Florida or other exotic Caribbean Islands, and to his playground, as he affectionately called Atlantic City. Bernard was a part of a close knit family. He was devoted to his family and always sought what was best for them . He was a religious man and looked forward to Sundays services at Church.

Upon leaving the US Army, Bernard worked at the Veteran Adm.Hospital at the Fort Hamilton Base in New York for 34 years, where he oversaw the management of medical supplies including their inventory. As usual, he was a success at what he did thus receiving several commendations. Bernard was an inspiration to us all and we will miss him dearly. Latelle will miss being called his "drill sergeants" to whom he referred to ,especially  around eating time, as he chose to eat what he liked and not what you think he should have. Sleep well dad, and enjoy your re-union with Evelyn in Heaven.