Edward D. Harris

Jan. 7, 1922-April 12, 2011

HOLDREGE, Nebraska -- Memorial services for Edward D. Harris will be conducted from the Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Holdrege on Monday, April 18, 2011, at 2 p.m. with Pastor Tom Gopp officiating. Private family inurnment is at the Prairie Home Cemetery in Holdrege prior to the memorial service.

Edward Dale Harris, 89, of Holdrege, passed away on Tuesday, April 12, 2011, at the Bertrand Nursing Home in Bertrand, Nebraska. Ed was born Jan. 7, 1922, in McCook, Nebraska, the second of three children born to Melvin H. and Gladys (Utter) Harris. He received his education from McCook, graduating at the age of 16 from McCook High School with the class of 1938.

On Sept. 11, 1943, he was united in marriage to Bernadine "Bernie" Wilcox and to this union three sons were born: Robert E., Donald D. and James J. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force on April 19, 1944, and served his country during World War II until his honorable discharge on May 11, 1946, with the rank of Sergeant.

After basic training, due to his experience in the telephone industry, Ed was selected to assist three officers and three enlisted men to design and build a radar system called the ANCPS6 at Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Boston, Massachusetts. This turned out to be a very accurate system for up to 150 miles away from a target.

During his working career, Ed was employed as a manager for 37 years for Northwestern Bell Telephone Company, retiring at the age of 55. Following retirement, he enjoyed woodworking and home repairs. Ed also enjoyed golf and his family.

He was a member of the American Legion for more than 50 years, the BPOE for more than 50 years, of which he was the second exalted ruler in Holdrege.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents; two sons, Robert E. and Donald D. Harris; and a sister, in infancy.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Bernie of Holdrege; son, James J. Harris of Blue Hill, Nebraska; daughters-in-law, Betty Jo Harris of Austin, Texas, and Rogene Harris of Holdrege; grandchildren, Brenda Gray and husband, Dale of Holdrege, Jani Thorell and husband, Brice of Holdrege, Scott E. Harris and wife, Missy of San Clemente, California, Ami Savrick of Austin, Texas, Kip Harris and wife, Katie of Austin and Robert E. "Skip" Harris and wife, Jennifer of Plano, Texas; 12 great-grandchildren; brother, James M. Harris of McCook; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

There is no visitation, the family is honoring Ed's wish for cremation.

A memorial has been established in his memory and kindly suggested to the donor's choice.

Expressions of caring and kindness can be sent to the family at www.nelsonbauerfh.com.

The Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Holdrege is in charge of the arrangements.