Obituary of Robert K. Harris

Robert Kingsley Harris South Bristol/Canandaigua: Robert Kingsley Harris passed away unexpectedly on Monday, January 6, 2020. Robert was predeceased by his parents George C. and Evelyn (Anthony) Harris and his nephew Steven R. Harris. He is survived by his wife Catherine (Erbland) Harris; his daughters Lucy, Nastia and Vika Harris;sisters Susan Harris, Mary (William) White, Cynthia Payne (Peter Battisti); brother William (Barbara) Harris; aunt Emily Harris; many brothers and sisters in-law; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who adored him and knew his love for them. Robert (Bob) was born November 1, 1945. He graduated from Victor Central School (1964) and from Alfred University College of Ceramics with a degree in Engineering-Science (1970). Bob was known to his community as a talented and passionate builder- craftsman; an innovator; and most of all, as a tireless and willing volunteer of his time and many talents. Bob, a big friendly Ursa, always had a twinkle in his eye and bear hugs for friends and family. In fact on first meeting Bob, you might be greeted with a left-handed handshake as he balanced a small car engine on his right hip. Yet, Bob was a big man in so many other ways beyond his towering stature. He was a good and gentle man: outgoing, humble, earthy; and immediately lovable and loving. He was also smart, quick-witted, and disarmingly so; always finding ways of interjecting both subtle, and eye-rolling-not-so-subtle, puns into every conversation. He actively sought out opportunities to contribute to his community, including pioneering the first food coop and restoring historic structures in the village of Naples. One of his most ardent and passionate restoration projects was dedicated to transformation of a vacant and deteriorating church into the Bristol Valley Theater, where he later served as a long time board member. Bob, as a person, was immediately likable. He loved life and everyone, and everyone loved him: his sisters and brother; his extended family and their children and grandchildren; his many friends; and yes, dogs… lots of dogs, including his constant canine companion, Ted. Yet, most of all, he adored and loved his wife, Cathy, and their beautiful daughters: Lucy, Nastia and Vika. He was an exemplary of loving husband and father: dedicated, caring, giving and always involved with, and supportive of, his family. He was an awesome Dad and it was impossible not to notice his perpetual smile, pride and unending praises for his girls, as he cheered them on in their various activities. While Bob will be truly and sorely missed, he leaves us with his legacy as an exemplar of humanity at its best: strength tempered with gentleness and humility; humor bounded by kindness; unrequited giving without expectation; joy in living simply, and just simply living; love and respect for others, the earth and its living creatures. We can take heart at his loss in striving to carry on that legacy. Family and friends are invited and may call Friday, February 7, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Fuller Funeral Home, 190 Buffalo Street, Canandaigua NY. A memorial Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, February 8 at 11a.m. at Saint Mary’s Church, 95 North Main Street, Canandaigua NY. Memorial donations may be made in lieu of flowers to the Naples Ambulance Inc. (199 N Main St, Naples, NY 14512) or to the Ontario County Humane Society (2976 County Rd 48, Canandaigua, NY 14424)