John Alexander Harris

Born January 3, 1971, John died peacefully at his home on May 15, 2020 at the age of 49. John was born in Honolulu, the son of Ernest Alexander Harris and Shelly Kay Campbell. John graduated from Punahou School in 1989 as a proud member of its Thirteen Plus Club named for the students who attended from kindergarten through high school. John attended Colgate University in New York where, in his first semester as a freshman, he was accepted into The Colgate Thirteen, the 2nd oldest collegiate a cappella group in the country. He enjoyed college life and performed with the elite singing group for two years when he decided he wanted to get back to a warmer climate. John attended Pomona College in California, graduating cum laude as a member of the Class of 1993 and returned to his roots in Honolulu.

John’s work in real estate started back in 1995 when RE/MAX Honolulu first opened its doors ultimately becoming the sole Broker/Owner. His ability to work with people, problem solve situations and his dedication to professional development was indicative of his determination to provide the best service to clients and agents alike. He continually mentored new agents who benefited from his keen insight and encouragement. John consistently demonstrated outstanding professional skills and personal integrity, chairing and serving in numerous committees at the local, state and national level; earning accolades at every turn. He was the Immediate Past President of Hawaii Realtors and in Spring 2019 received a proclamation from the Hawaii State House of Representatives for the breadth of his work and his contributions to the community. Last October, John received the very first Hawaii REBI (Real Estate Business Institute) Stewart L Wade Pinnacle Award. which is the highest distinction REBI members can attain for their commitment to the industry and the organization.

Warm. Friendly. Kind. Generous. John was one of those people whose presence alone would bring a smile to your face and light up the room. Whether it was entertaining people with his beautiful singing voice, firing up the grill on game day, or sharing his hilarious observations of the mundane, John was truly a joy to be near. He was an avid sports fan and an excellent writer. In fact, it was always a good idea to keep a thesaurus handy when reading his work.

John is survived by his wife of 16 years, Michelle Christopher Harris; mother, Shelly Campbell of Oregon; sister Mary Beth Harris Maassen of Arizona; cousins Laura Coleman Waite (Ian) and Matthew Coleman (Caitie) of Oregon; goddaughter Cecilia Coleman of Oregon; stepbrothers Bret Withrow (Dana) of North Carolina and Edward Campbell (Kathy) of Washington; stepsisters Elizabeth Campbell Mihlbauer (John) of Kaneohe and Patricia Campbell Neis (Bob) of Oregon; along with many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his honor to Children’s Miracle Network or to a charity of your choice.