WINTER HAVEN - Donald Frank Harris, Sr., 83, of Winter Haven, Florida, died at home on March 16, 2008, after a long and courageous battle with leukemia. 

Born in Detroit, Michigan, December 2, 1924, Mr. Harris moved to Vero Beach, Florida, in 1936. After graduating from Vero Beach High School, he immediately entered the U.S. Army.  His honorable service included three and one-half years in Germany and France with the 311^th  Infantry. Mr. Harris was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Meritorious Service in connection with action against the enemy.  Mr. Harris attended Stetson University for two years, transferred to the University of Florida, and graduated in 1950 with a degree in Agricultural Engineering.  After graduation, he moved to Winter Haven and was employed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) in the processing food division for 26 years.  He retired in 1986.  A gracious gentleman, Mr. Harris inspired others with his wit, integrity and perseverance.  Donald was an active member of Covenant Presbyterian Church and a member of Winter Haven Masonic Lodge #186 F &AM.

A devoted and beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Mr. Harris is survived by his wife of 59 years, Thaliah S. Harris of Winter Haven; one daughter, Karen Lee Reeves (Franklin) of Winter Haven; and one son, Donald F. Harris, Jr. (Deborah) of Elon, North Carolina.  His surviving grandchildren include one grandson, Kevin O’Neal of Winter Haven and two granddaughters, Kristin Leigh and Kathryn Elizabeth of Elon, North Carolina. He is also survived by one brother Robert S. Harris, Jr. (Betty) of Santa Barbara, California; one sister, Marilyn Simmons (Thomas) of Winter Park, Florida. Mr. Harris is preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Harris, Sr. and a sister Betty Felitz of Detroit, Michigan.