Morris Bud Harris

Morris Harris was born June 10, 1922 in Winnepeg, Canada to Jacob and Bessie Harris. He joined the family with four older sisters: Trude, Kay, Rae, and Lilyan. When he was six months old, the family moved to Los Angeles, California. Moe attended school in Los Angeles and had just started college when the country entered World War II. Dad joined the Merchant Marines and served in the Atlantic, Pacific, Mediterranean and Middle East war zones. He was honorably discharged in 1946.

He married his wife Mary in 1946. Their son Michael was born in December of that year and four years later they welcomed their daughter Catherine.

Most of Moe’s professional career was spent as a Merchandiser and Displayman for the liquor industry. His skills as artist, designer and builder created demand for his work and success on several major projects including a number for charity events.

In 1957 the family moved from Los Angeles to newly developing Orange County. Moe joined the volunteer fire department of Buena Park and served for several years. In 1963 Moe and Mary moved the family to Brea, California.

Moe joined the USAF Civil Air Patrol and went on numerous search and rescue missions. After more than 25 years he retired with the rank of Major.

During these years, his daughter Cathie married Don Knox. A few years later, Moe welcomed his grandaughter Mona.

Moe’s wife Mary passed away in 1987 after a long illness. He continued to live in Brea, working and spending time with family and friends. He gave considerable time to voluteering and serving in the CAP.

Moe retired and moved to Laguna Vista Mobile Homepark in Oceanside, California where he met and fell in love with Margaret Quinn. They were married and spent ten happy years together. He continued to be involved in numerous community projects.

During this time, Moe’s grandaughter married Marco Sanchez and welcomed his great grandaughter Katia.

Moe passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 5, 2011.