Robert Adrian Harris ’44
Robert Adrian Harris ’44 died March 17 in his Venice, Florida, home. He was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, and graduated from University School in Cleveland, where he was a star running back and varsity wrestler. In 1943 he earned a A.B. in economics from Dartmouth, taking accelerated courses in order to join the war effort. Harris was a varsity speed skater and member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon. He served as a lieutenant, j.g., in the U.S. Navy on LST 635 in the Pacific theater in WW II. In 1946 he joined Electronic Periodicals Inc., a publishing business co-founded by his father, and later became the firm’s president. During his 26-year career at Electronic Periodicals he launched three directories. In 1960 he earned the Man of the Year Award from the Electronic Representatives Association. In 1972 he founded, with his wife, Beatrice, Harris Publishing Co. He continued to expand the business with the help of his son Bob Jr., producing industrial directories for all 50 states. Harris had a heart for helping others, aiding many friends, co-workers and business associates. In 1990 he retired to Venice and pursued his lifelong pastimes of golf, bridge and travel. In addition to his wife, Beatrice, survivors include sons Robert Jr. and Bruce and four grandchildren. Contributions may be made in Robert’s name to USS LST 325 Ship Memorial Inc., Attn: Capt. R. Jornlin, 840 LST Dr., Evansville, IN 47713. The LST 325 is the last intact ship of its kind, serving as an educational memorial in Evansville.
