Doyle E. ‘Gene’ Harris

Doyle E. “Gene” Harris, 73, passed away at 7:05 a.m. Wednesday, August 12, 2015, at Vancrest Health Care Center in Van Wert.

He was born February 17, 1942, in Paulding, the son of Walter F. and Marvel (Scott) Harris, who both preceded him in death. His wife, Jane A. (Myers) Harris, survives.

Also surviving are a daughter, Nikki (Greg McCray) Harris of Van Wert; a stepdaughter, Donna (Larry) Clouse of Van Wert; a stepson, Jim Myers of Van Wert; nine grandchildren, Maddux, Drew, Lexi, Tricia, Vivienne, Ross, Kim, Nathan and Chris; and four great-grandchildren, Beth, Ila, Maggie and Cora. He is also survived by a brother, Terry (Jill) Harris of Haviland; and several nieces and nephews.

Four siblings, Don, Mary Lou, Bill and John, also preceded him in death.

Gene had worked as a skilled tradesman most of his life, first at Federal-Mogul/National Seal for about 10 years and then at Chrysler Amplex in Van Wert for 20 years. He was a member of the United Auto Workers union. After he retired from Chrysler, he liked to tinker in his garage, finding innovative ways to solve problems. Gene had served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War era.

Private family burial services will be conducted at a later date, with military honors performed by combined units from American Legion Post 178 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5803, both in Van Wert.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 4-8 p.m. Friday, August 14, at Brickner Funeral Home in Van Wert.

Preferred memorials: Donor’s choice.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.bricknerfuneralhome.com or emailed to bricknerfuneralhome@bright.net.