In loving memory of

Melvin D. "Mel" Harris
December 3, 1934 - June 4, 2021

Melvin "Mel" D. Harris
Canton - Melvin "Mel" D. Harris, 86, of Canton, passed away Friday, June 4, 2021, at Graham Hospital in Canton.
He was born on December 3, 1934, in Los Angles California, to Herbert B. Harris and Anna (Carver) Pierce. They preceded him in death along with one sister, Sharen Cantrell, one brother, Keith Harris, two son in laws Tim Taylor and Mike Lock, one grandson Jacob Taylor, and his step mother, Frances Harris.
Mel is survived by his wife, Loretta (Hensley), whom he married on September 10, 1989 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Also surviving are four children, Pam Harris of Missouri, Karen Taylor of Canton, Greg (Stephanie) Harris of Pekin and Steve Harris of Florida, two step children, Cindy (Monty) Hedges of Canton and Rick (Miranda) Lingenfelter of Hannah City, two brothers, Darrell (Joanne) Harris of Arizona and Charlie (Linda) Harris of Missouri, one sister Debra Winslow of Missouri, ten grandchildren, Karlee, Kolin, Trinity, Justin, Jeremy, Alera, Mandy, Madison, Desimbur, and Autumn, four step grandchildren, Katie, Taylor, Blare and Drue and several great grandchildren, step great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Mel owned and operated Western Auto, Ace True Value hardware, and Mel's Sporting Goods all located in Canton for many years. He retired in 2004.
He was a member of the Canton Rotary, a co-founder of the Canton Wrestling Club, and K.A.R.E. Camp, and president for the Lion's Club and the Canton Chamber of Commerce.
Mel had a true passion for racing horses. He raced pacers at Balmoral and Maywood in Chicago, as well as Indiana and New York. He started his horse racing career with quarter horses which he always kept a love for. Over the years he had many champion horses.
Mel enjoyed camping, boating, and especially dancing. Every time music was played, he was always the first one to get up and dance. He was an avid fan of the Chicago Bears, St. Louis Cardinals, and the Fighting Illini. Above everything Mel loved his family and spending time with his grandchildren.
A Funeral service will be held on Thursday, June 10, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. where visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.
Burial will be held at Greenwood Cemetery in Canton.
Memorials may be made to the Canton Wrestling Club or to K.A.R.E.
To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Tributes

Sharon (Nebergall) Bosserman wrote on Jul 9, 2021:

"My sympathies to the Harris families! May your hearts be comforted."

Judy Warrington wrote on Jun 11, 2021:

"So sorry about the loss of one of the best loved men in Canton! Thoughts and prayers for the family in this time of sorrow! Loretta, love you my friend, so sorry about the loss of your wonderful husband! Judy and Larry"

Rich Pletz wrote on Jun 10, 2021:

"When we heard of your loss we were greatly saddened. We have been lost for words. Bridget and I have walked in your shoes and have spent time reflecting on the loss of some of our loved ones. I have known Mel since Jr. High and was glad I was able to know him and all the Harris family. The Harris family and I have always had a special bond. I have learned that no matter what happens in your life be thankful that you were allowed the time you had with your loved ones. You will always have the memories in your head and the love in your heart that will last a lifetime. Always know you and your family are loved by many. The day will hopefully come that you and your family will look at a sun rise or sun set while on the pontoon and know it is another day. You should all smile for you know Mel is with you. Our condolences to your family and if you need anything please call. Rich and Bridget Pletz"

Judy Dagit wrote on Jun 9, 2021:

"To the family of Mel Harris! I am so sorry for your loss. He was a great father, husband and grandfather. He will be missed by many. In our hearts ?? and never forgotten. R. I. P Mel.?"

Darrelyn Harris wrote on Jun 7, 2021:

"One of my favorite memories when I was around nine was when uncle Melvin came to Kansas City for Western Auto school. We went to Fun House Pizza and I?ll never forget dancing on his feet all around the dance floor! So many fun memories! He taught me to water ski by getting in the water with me?which meant when the boat took off he was left behind in the water waiting for our return!! What a fun uncle! Thanks for all the memories! Such fun times at the lake, in Vegas, in Florida! Love you so much! Prayers for Aunt Loretta, Pam, Karen, Greg, Steve and all the family! Love you all!??"

Marcie Myers wrote on Jun 7, 2021:

"Loretta and Family - So very sorry for your loss. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. Marcie Shumaker Myers"

Janet Edmonds wrote on Jun 7, 2021:

"My heartfelt sympathy and prayers to the family, May God provide you with peace, comfort and strength during this difficult time of mourning. Psalms 29:11"

Janet Edmonds wrote on Jun 7, 2021:

"My heartfelt sympathy and prayers to the family, May God provide you with peace, comfort and strength during this difficult time of mourning. Psalms 29:11"

Lynda Bates wrote on Jun 6, 2021:

"So very sorry for the families loss. Known Mel and kids for years. You will be missed greatly at the lake this year."