Kenneth Wayne “Zeke” Harris, 86, of Galesburg, died at 6:42 a.m. Friday, August 11, 2023 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria, Illinois.
Kenneth was born February 15, 1937 in Mankato, Minnesota, the son of Lewis H. and Ruth B. (Tilton) Harris. He graduated from Roseville High School in 1956. He served in the US Army from 1956 until he was honorably discharged in 1959. On May 7, 1960 Kenneth married Merrillyn K. Ross. They welcomed a son Darrell Wayne on May 29, 1961 They divorced in 1979. Kenneth married Terri Lynn Wehering on January 24, 1981 in Abingdon.
Kenneth is survived by his wife, Terri of Galesburg; his son, Darrell (Harriett) Harris of Bradenton, Florida; four granddaughters; six great grandchildren; and one brother, William Harris of Haxtun, Colorado. He is also survived by two special families, Al, Sheila, Colton, and Lucas Cruz; and Robert and Shannon Sweeney, along with Bailey and Maliek, and three fur babies. He is additionally survived by a special young man, John McCulloch and parents Dave and Tami; and several nieces and nephews. Including his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepmother, Vera Harris; one sister and her husband, Fern and Raymond Turley; a sister-in-law, JoAnne Harris; and a niece Kelli Jo Lightsey.
Kenneth worked at Maytag for 19 years. His true passion was farming and enjoyed many years farming alongside Chuck Westbay. Kenneth lived by these words: Live Simply, Love Generously, Care Deeply, and Speak Kindly.
Cremation will be accorded. No services are planned. Memorial contributions may be directed to Terri Harris to be distributed to Central Illinois Sled Hockey and A Tail of 4 Paws Animal Rescue. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
