Obituary of Richard John Harris

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Richard “Dick” Harris announce his passing on the afternoon of March 16^th, 2025, at the Saint John New Brunswick Regional Hospital. He was born in Penticton, BC, a place he cherished and always called home, on October 1^st, 1950, to Peggy & Joe Harris.

His childhood lived in the mountains and orchards of the Okanagan created a lifelong connection to the outdoors. He graduated from Penticton High School and began working for Noca Dairy, it was a fateful decision. He met his soulmate and wife, Trish, while delivering ice cream during the summer of 1969. They would marry on September 25^th, 1971, a 53-year partnership many can aspire to.  He would spend his entire career in the dairy industry, retiring after 35 years.

Throughout his life, other than family, serving the community was paramount; he was a Search and Rescue member, Dept. Chief of the Naramata Fire Dept, Director of RDOS- Emergency Planning, Director of OSSA – Okanagan Summer School of the Arts, and a Member of the PHS Grad Committee.

Participating, coaching, and building local sports was a passion of his. The Naramata Slo-Pitch League and a new backstop became a reality due to his efforts. The Cabin at Chute Lake was a cherished gathering place for family and friends. On the weekends his children were raised in the wild, from exploring the hillsides above Naramata to fishing any body of water they came across. A day spent cutting firewood with Charles also gave him great joy.

Dick was predeceased by his parents. He will be sadly missed by his wife, Trish; children, Ali (Chris) and Matt (Jen); grandchildren, (Ben (Emily), Olivia (Blake) (and their father Jay), Hudson, Nolan, and Mya; step-grandchildren, Josh, Joh, and Daniel; siblings, Mary (Ron d.), Ann, Janie (Mike), Eileen (Johnny), Pat (Monica), and Alice (Kevin). He will also be missed by nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends.

A gathering for family and friends to celebrate Dick’s life will be held Sunday June 29^th, 2025, from 1-4pm at the Penticton Seniors Centre - Ken Wignes Room. 2965 South Main St. Penticton BC. Donations in Dick’s name made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated by the family.