James Melvin Harris

James M. Harris, age 96, of McCook, passed away at the Hillcrest Nursing Home in McCook on May 12, 2015. He was born in McCook on May 14, 1918 to Melvin and Gladys (Utter) Harris. James grew up in McCook where he received his education. James farmed with horses and mowed the Highway right-of-way to the Kansas line with a team and sickle mower. James served his country, joining the US Army in 1942 and was honorably discharged in 1945. He served in the European Theater. He returned to McCook where he met and Married the love of his life, Violette Ree, on November 13, 1948 at Lake Andes, South Dakota. They made their home in McCook where James operated Jim Harris Construction. He helped in the construction of the Trenton Dam in 1955. James retired at age 80 from the construction operation. He then worked for Western Quality Oil Company. Due to declining health, he moved to the Hillcrest Nursing Home in 2007. James was a life member of the VFW, Eagles and the Elks Lodge. He enjoyed gardening especially tomatoes and cucumbers. He loved to be with his grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Violette, in 1998; his parents, Melvin and Gladys Harris; infant sister; one son, Jerry Harris; one brother, Ed Harris and sister-in-law, Bernie Harris. Survivors include his daughter, Sherry and husband, William Lytle, of McCook; son, Tommy Harris of McCook; six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; and daughter-in-law, Ina Harris of McCook. Funeral services will be held at the Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel in McCook on Saturday, May 16, 2015 at 10:30 AM with Clark Bates officiating. Interment will be in the Memorial Park Cemetery of McCook, NE. Memorial will be given in his name to Hillcrest Nursing Home and may be left at Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel. Friends may leave on-line condolences at herrmannfh.com