Eldon D. Harris
Eldon D. Harris, 85, of Saint Louis, MO, formerly of Bourbon, MO, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 15, 2023, with his loving family by his side.
Eldon Dwayne Harris was born on April 16, 1938, in Jonesboro, Arkansas, to Lee and Alma (Gibson) Harris. Eldon enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1956 and was honorably discharged in 1958. Eldon was united in marriage to Christine Thacker on June 22, 1956, and together were blessed with two children, Denise and Dave.
Eldon enjoyed a rewarding career with Manufacturers Railway Company. His leadership was well-respected, and he left a lasting legacy when he retired in 1995.
Retirement saw Eldon and Christine move to their newly built home in Bourbon, Missouri, where Eldon's love for farming took center stage. Here he raised cattle, rebuilt John Deere tractors, and spent countless hours on the golf course. Eldon loved his Border Collies, but his beloved Sugar held a special place in his heart.
Eldon's dedication to his community was as strong as his love for farming. He served on the boards of Peoples Bank and Crawford Electric for 22 years, contributing his business acumen and dedication to the betterment of his community. He also served on the Crawford County R-I School District Board of Education, further demonstrating his commitment to education and the future of his community.
His faith was an integral part of Eldon's life, and he was a devoted member of the Concordia Lutheran Church in Bourbon. His faith guided him throughout his life, providing a foundation of strength and compassion that touched all who knew him.
Eldon was a man of integrity, dedication, and love. His life was a testament to the power of hard work, the importance of service, and the enduring strength of family and faith. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the community he served so faithfully.
Eldon is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Christine of Saint Louis, MO; two children: Denise Sauer and husband Don of Festus, MO and Dave Harris of Imperial, MO; two grandchildren: Matt Sauer and wife Tiffany and Jamie O’Neill and husband Patrick all of Festus, MO; four great-grandchildren: Hunter, Quinn, Sterling, Grey and one on the way; a brother Edwin Harris and wife Betty of Ruston, LA; other relatives and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Alma.
Funeral Service will be 12 PM, Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at Concordia Lutheran Church in Bourbon, MO, with Pastor Robert Knapp officiating. Interment will follow at Bourbon Cemetery with military honors.
Visitation will be 10 – 12 PM, Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at Concordia Lutheran Church – Bourbon.
Friends may send their online condolences to Eldon’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com
Memorial contributions may be made to the Concordia Lutheran Church or the Bourbon Ecumenical Community Corporation – Food Pantry.
All arrangements are under the care and direction of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan.