Gary Harris Obituary

Gary Richard "Dick" Harris, 87

3/24/1937 - 1/16/2025



On January 16, 2025, Dick Harris, age 87, of Post Falls, Idaho, went to be with his Lord and Savior. He was surrounded by family as heaven gained an angel.

Dick was born on March 24, 1937, in Spokane, Wash., to Elmer and Gladys Harris. He grew up on the family ranch in Tyler, Wash., with his younger siblings, David Harris (Kay) and Donna Hanson (Bruce). His time on the ranch helped develop his lifelong work ethic and sense of adventure.

He graduated from Cheney High School in 1955. During his senior year, he was employed by the Cheney School District as a bus driver. Dick attended Eastern Washington University, where he earned a BA and master's degree in education. His love of education continued when he earned his Doctorate at the University of Idaho.

Dick spent the first seven years of his career as a classroom teacher. He spent the next thirty-five years in public school administration as a principal, assistant superintendent, and superintendent. His journey in administration took Dick and his family to nine school districts in three states: Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. His children always knew a career move was in the future when orange juice was poured and a family discussion was had. He completed his career as Superintendent of Post Falls School District in 2001. During his career and even in retirement, he taught graduate-level courses at seven universities. Dick had a true passion for community service and outreach. He received numerous awards and acknowledgments at local and state levels, including Post Falls Citizen of the Year. He proudly served in the Washington Army National Guard from 1955 to 1961.

In 1957, he married the love of his life, Janice Anderson of Cheney, WA. They were married for 67 years. They raised three children: Linda Garves (Don), Lori Thomas (Tom), and Kenneth Harris (Rhonda). Dick was a great dancer, and his children have fond memories of him and Jan tearing up the dance floor at family gatherings. Dick's "Circle of Life" continued to grow with grandchildren; Jared (Kristin), Brent (Jennifer), Mikayla (Patrick), Taryn (Corey), Tianna (Garrett), Trenton (MacKenzie), Cade, and great-grandchildren; Owen, Rylee, Griffin, Brynlee, Porter, Pierce, Paxton, Mia, and numerous nieces and nephews. His family was EVERYTHING.

Some of Dick's favorite activities included family vacations to the San Juans, digging clams, crabbing, fishing, and carpentry. He spent many summers with his family at the lake cabin boating, skiing, reading, and cheering on his beloved Mariners and Seahawks. He enjoyed collecting classic cars and sharing them at local parades and car shows.

Family gatherings brought Dick tremendous joy. This summer of 2025, the family will honor him with a Celebration of Life at his happy place, the lake cabin. In lieu of flowers, please share special memories to 2600 A E Seltice Way, #304, Post Falls, ID 83854.