Richard Allen “Rick” Harris

Rick, age 66, passed away January 28, 2015 at The Good Shepard Hospice House in Manhattan. He was born August 26, 1949 in Raytown, MO, son of Harley & Geraldine Harris, and attended schools there. His mother and his sister Sharon and her family still live in Raytown.

Rick loved cars and driving in his youth, and early jobs around Kansas City were driving a city bus, and a double decker bus in the River Key Area. He came to KS with friends in 1974, and married Susan in 1976. They had a son Toby Grant Harris (wife Amanda) on December 30, 1983. Rick was very proud of his grandson Asher Stout Harris who just turned 2 years old on January 21st. Asher loved to play "go go's" (Hot Wheels cars) with his papa!

Rick drove for several trucking/construction companies before settling in with Shilling Construction in Manhattan. He had to retire in 2009 after being hospitalized from 3 lung collapses and the surgery that followed. From then on he has fought the day to day battle of COPD.

Rick left the city for the country and never looked back. He loved his life in Wabaunsee County, in several farm houses and finally in Paxico. He never knew a stranger, loved a good conversation, and was always quick with a smile or a wave from his truck or scooter. Rick's father Harley died when he was very young, and so he really enjoyed his close relationship with his father in law Roy Stout. They had lots of fun, and got in lots of trouble together! Roy gave him his beloved IH Super C tractor, which was his pride and joy. Some might remember him dozing out driveways in town while he was still able. Of course he always loved the big trucks.

Rick was cremated. There will be a Celebration of Life Memorial gathering at Woodman Hall in downtown Paxico on Saturday Feburary 7th from 1pm-5pm