Gerald J. "Shine" Harris

Gerald J. “Shine” Harris, 83 years, of Monroe, Michigan went home to be with the Lord on Friday, May 9, 2014 in his home surrounded by family. Born January 2, 1931 in Ypsilanti, Michigan, Shine was the son of the late Allen A. and Peg (Raymo) Harris. Shine was a graduate of the Hall of The Divine Child Grade School and a 1949 graduate of Monroe Catholic Central High School. Shine served his country honorably and proudly as a member of the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. He served form December of 1950 until his discharge in December of 1954. For his service to country he was awarded the Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. Shine married the former Yvonne Lee Brewer, sadly she preceded him in death on July 23, 1991. He then married the former Linda Hicks. Shine was employed for 30 years for Michigan Bell and AT&T. After retirement he then went to work at La Z Boy from which he retired after 15 years. Shine was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Monroe where he was baptized and confirmed. He was a member of The Monroe County Rod and Gun Club, Monroe First Downers and V.F.W Post 1138. Shine was a true sports enthusiast and enjoyed watching all types of sports, especially sports involving his grandchildren. More than anything Shine loved his family. He is survived by his beloved wife Linda, four loving children: Holly L. (John) Ziemke of Monroe, Kyle A. (Judy) Harris of Luna Pier, MI, Heidi M. (Eric) Linsenmeyer of Monroe and Lance W. Harris of Monroe, nine cherished grandchildren: Ashleigh (Daniel) Vuich, III, Cassidy Ziemke, Valerie Harris, Ryleigh Linsenmeyer, Jerry Harris, Bradey Harris, Logan Harris, Haleigh Harris and A.J. Harris, and two treasured great grandchildren: Drew and Jackson Vuich. In addition to his first wife; Yvonne and his parents, Shine was preceded in death by his mother and father in law: Jennie and Riley Brewer. Visitation will be held on Monday from 1-8 PM in the Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Rd., Monroe, MI, 48161, where a scripture service will be held that evening at 6:00 PM. On Tuesday, May 13, 2014 he will lie in state at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 127 N. Monroe St., Monroe, MI, 48162 from 9:00 AM until Mass of the Resurrection celebrating his life at 10:00 AM. Fr. David Burgard, pastor of the church will officiate. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park, where the V.F.W. Post 1138 will conduct military honors. Memorial contributions are suggested to Monroe High School Athletic Department or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Gerald J. "Shine" Harris

January 2, 1931 - May 9, 2014