LEAF RIVER – Lisle G. Harris, age 77, passed away on Tuesday January 23, 2024 at Liberty Village in Freeport. He was born in Reno, NV on August 10, 1946 the son of Richard and Elizabeth (McKague) Harris. Lisle moved around many times in his childhood before settling in Leaf River, IL towards the end of his high school career. He was social and enjoyed playing many sports and being in band while in high school before graduating from Leaf River High Class of 1967. While there, he met the love of his life, Patricia Krause and the high school sweethearts would go on to get married on May 17, 1969 and have a love story that would last the rest of their lives. He served the country in the US Army for 3 years and stayed a reservist for 24 more years. He was an active member of the American Legion and Sons of the Legion and was a proud 13th District Commander as well as serving on the Legion Honor Guard. He worked for many years as an inspector for Micro Switch in Freeport and after that worked for 10 years as a bus driver at the Byron Bus Garage. He was a man of faith and a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Byron and was also a member of the Knights of Colombus. Lisle loved sports, staying active, and being outside. He enjoyed playing mud volleyball, softball, and being in an archery league. More than anything, Lisle will be remembered for his winning personality, sense of humor, and giving personality. He could always be counted on to lend a helping hand or giving a smile and wave. He knew how to make sure people knew they were important and cared for. He is survived and deeply missed by many; but especially by his wife of almost 55 years, Patricia of Leaf River; children, Stephen (Jen) Harris of Grand Blanc, MI, Cathryn Harris of Rochester, MN, and Ronald (Melissa) Harris of Hudson, WI; siblings, Sherrill “Bud” (JoAnn) Harris, Richard (Bonnie White) Harris, Earl Johnson, and Margaret (Rick) Taft; grandchildren, Rachel, Emily, Benjamin, Joseph, Kaitlyn, and Lauren; and many other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents. A visitation will be held from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM on Feb. 9, 2024 at Farrell Holland Gale Funeral Home in Byron. Donations may be directed to the American Legion or the American Diabetes Association. To leave an online condolence please visit www.farrellhollandgale.com
