James Harris

James Duke Harris, 89, of Silver Bay, died Wednesday April 13, 2011 in an ATV accident.

He was born March 7, 1922 to Emerson and Gertrude (Downs) Harris in Superior, WI. Jim grew up in Superior and graduated from Superior Central High School. He enlisted in the Navy in 1942 as a storekeeper 2nd Class, and served until 1945. He married Evelyn Johnson on May 22, 1942 in Superior, WI. Jim worked for various railroads before moving to Silver Bay in the 1950's, where he worked for Reserve Mining until his retirement in 1982. He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, and the VFW. Jim enjoyed golfing, bowling, snowmobiling, and four-wheeling, which led him to be one of the founders of the "Wrinkled Riders Club".

Jim and Dolly used to enjoy dancing with friends, which led them and others to start the Silver Bay Dance Club of the 50's and 60's. They enjoyed, in their later years, traveling on bus tours.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Emerson; sister, Gertrude White; and infant daughter, Judith.

Jim is survived by his wife of 68 years, Evelyn "Dolly" of Silver Bay; daughter, Kathleen (Gary) Meyer of Rockford, IL; son, Thomas (Jackie) Harris of Beaver Bay; grandchildren, Todd, Laurie, Courtney, and Lindsey; 11 great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

A private graveside service will be held. The family would like to invite you to celebrate Jim's life on Wednesday, April 20, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Silver Bay from 1 PM to 3 PM.