Al Harris

Harris, Al, of Wichita, Kansas beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather and friend passed away Monday evening, November 2, 2009 at the age of 67. Funeral services will be held this Wednesday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. at the Hebrew Congregation of Wichita at 1850 N. Woodlawn. Albert Lyon Harris was born April 19, 1942, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and raised in Clarion, Pennsylvania. He graduated from Penn State University in 1964 with a degree in Hotel Management; and played on the varsity tennis team. Al moved to Wichita, KS in January 1974 working with Sky Chef, managed food operations at the Wichita Airport and later at Boeing. Al became a well known restaurateur, operating Dons Restaurant and The Beacon downtown for many years. In retirement, he enjoyed traveling and visiting with friends and family. He was active with the Hebrew Congregation of Wichita and served as chairman on many boards and committees; as well as serving with InterFaith Ministries. He had a passion for collecting, restoring and selling etchings and other prints. He loved interacting with all of Wichitas community members in all aspects of life - there was no place Al could not go in Wichita without someone recognizing and greeting him. Al is survived by his wife Dixie, sons Neil (wife Joanie) and David, three grandchildren; a brother Martin (wife Judy), and a sister Henrietta Katzen (husband Marc). He was previously married to Elaine R. Harris. Memorials can be directed to the Hebrew Congregation of Wichita 1850 N. Woodlawn, Wichita, KS 67208 or the Kansas Humane Society, 3313 N. Hillside, Wichita, KS, 67219. Downing Lahey Mortuary East.