June 12, 1947 - September 2, 2023

76 Years Old We are greatly saddened to announce the passing of Wayne Richard Harris, at the age of 76, from complications of cancer, on September 2, 2023, at Markham Stouffville Hospital.

Born in East York (Toronto) on June 12, 1947, the sixth child of the late Jeanette Norval Harris (nee Kennedy) and Frederick Norman Harris.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 49 years, Joanne (nee Runia). His sisters June Duncombe (Bob), Olive O’Connor (Jim), and Isobel Heggie (Jock), and brothers Frederick and Thomas predeceased him.

He will be missed dearly by nieces Janet Ruebottom (Alan), and Kathy Dearing, and nephews Robert Duncombe (Yvonne), James O’Connor (Diane), and Thomas O’Connor (Sheree). Sister-in-law Wilma Runia, brother-in-law John Runia, and nephews and nieces Michael and Kevin Runia, and Jennifer Handley and Michelle Dickie, all loved him & will miss him.

Wayne chose a life of service as a Firefighter with the Scarborough Fire Department, raising through the ranks to District Chief.

There he made lifelong friends, and met his best friend Ron Appleton, with whom he shared countless memorable experiences.

He had the gift of finding humour in even the most unlikely situations, bringing laughter to all who surrounded him. Wayne lived life full, loved his family, friends, neighbours, dogs, cars, travelling, his old cottage, and so much more.

You will be missed!

We would like to thank the excellent team at Markham Stouffville Hospital who helped us get through this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers we would appreciate donations to Markham Stouffville Hospital Hospice Fund.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Wayne in the weeks to come.