Gary L Harris

PEKIN ~ Gary L. "Stik" Harris, 56, of 2216 Mayflower Drive, passed away at 1:38 a.m. Saturday, December 27, 2008, surrounded by his wife and his dogs whom he adored, at his home after a courageous battle with cancer of the esophagus.

Born August 15, 1952 in Peoria to Lloyd and Ruth (Mowrey) Harris, he married Sharon Miles on December 11, 1971 in Creve Coeur.

Surviving are his wife; one brother, Keith (Jeanne) Harris of Pekin; two sisters, Beverly (David) Lane of Sarasota, Florida and Karen (Tom) Ruschmeyer of Pekin; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two sons, Ryan and Brandon Harris.

Gary worked as an operating engineer out of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 649 in Peoria from 1970 until retiringon September 1, 2008.

He was member of First United Methodist Church in Pekin.

Gary loved cars, traveling in his motor home, John Deere collectibles, and his dogs, Cody, Dakota, and Prince.

His graveside service will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday, December 30, 2008at Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin. The Rev. Terry C. Edele will officiate. Per Gary's wishes, there will be no visitation.

Memorial contributions may be made to Tazewell Animal Protective Society, 100 TAPS Lane, Pekin, IL 61554.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel.