Fredrick W. Harris

passed away on January 2, 2009 at his Bainbridge Island home. He is survived by his wife of 67 years: Maxine "Lida" Harris, children: Lane Harris (wife Marilyn), and Linda Papineau, grandchildren: Michael Hughes (wife Donna), Angela Lillie (husband Michael), and Tobin Harris, great grandchildren: Amanda Hughes, Katrina Hughes and Nova Hughes. Fred was born in Pratt, Kansas, on December 7, 1916 to Mattie and Jack Harris. He was the 4th of 6 children, who all preceded him in death.During the depression his family moved from Kansas to Bremerton, Washington, where he graduated from Bremerton High School in 1934. He married his wife Lida on March 22, 1941. In March of 1942 he enlisted in the Army Air Corp for flight training. Because he had prior flight experience he was trained as a flight instructor for B-17s. He also received training in, and flew B-29s. He remained a pilot for the duration of WWII. After his military service ended, he returned to Bremerton to rejoin his family. Fred was a long time resident of Bainbridge Island. He and Lida moved to the Island in 1968. He leased and later owned the ARCO Service Station located near the Bainbridge Island Ferry Terminal. During that time he also became a city councilman and held that position for 14 years. Fred retired from the service station business in 1980 but continued on as a city councilman. In 1992 he decided to call it quits, and give retirement a try. He and Lida did some traveling, and thoroughly enjoyed relaxing around home. Before his death, Fred stated that he had no complaints about his life. He said he would like to be remembered as a good husband, father, and a generally decent person. As anyone who ever had contact with Fred will tell you, that is just how he was thought of.An open house in his honor will be held at the family home on Bainbridge Island Saturday January 10th from 1-4 PM. All are welcome to come and celebrate his life.Remembrances are suggested to Hospice of Kitsap County.