Obituary of Peter Joel Harris

Peter J. Harris, husband of Karyl Elinski and father of Madeline Kate "Maggie"', 17, and Aleksandr James "Alek", 13, passed away on Friday night, August 27th, 2010, at the age of 49. He is also survived by his parents Leon and Gloria Harris of Lake Forest Park, Washington and his older brother Kevin (Barbara) Harris of Edmonds, Washington, nephews Cameron and Daniel Harris and the Elinski family.Peter was born in Burbank, California in 1961 and was a joy to all around him as a child. He spent his childhood in Los Angeles and several exotic locales, including a two year stint in Australia. Peter graduated from Grant High School, Van Nuys, California in 1979. He went on to the University of California, Davis and earned his B.A. in 1983. He left California to continue his studies at Cornell Law School in Ithaca, New York, graduating with his J. D. in 1986. Friends and classmates throughout his studies remember Peter fondly as a trusted friend with a deep sense of compassion and good cheer. As a practicing attorney, Peter returned to California where he met his future wife Karyl. They married in 1988 in Los Angeles at a mirthful wedding joined by family and friends, preceded by a fun day at Disneyland and a memorable evening of good food and belly dancing. They settled in San Francisco for several years where daughter Maggie was born and they pursued their professional careers as lawyers. Always one to see the humor in things, Peter was a well-respected colleague and friend, known for his eye-rolling puns and great sense of humor. Peter was amazed and thrilled by the birth of his daughter and his son, devoting himself to them throughout his life. With a passion for music, he enjoyed playing the guitar and had recently found great pleasure in taking up the mandolin. His joie de vivre, sense of humor and adventure was infectious to all who had the privilege of knowing him. He could brighten even the darkest moments. In 1995, Peter, Karyl and Maggie moved to Bainbridge Island, Washington, where his son Alek was born. For the last seven years they have resided in Olympia, Washington. Peter was serving as a staff attorney for the State of Washington's Department of Health, Medical Quality Assurance Commission. He is remembered as a wonderful, intelligent colleague with a quick wit and a kind heart. Peter loved deeply, laughed often and lived well. He is profoundly missed. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made for Peter's children to the Peter Harris Memorial Fund, Washington State Employees Credit Union, 2302 Harrison Avenue NW, Olympia, Washington 98512. Your memories of Peter and condolences may be left by clicking on "View Guestbook" below.