Robert E. Harris

Robert E. Harris 1926 - 2011 CHICOPEE - Robert Emmett Harris, 85, of Chicopee, entered into eternal life on Thursday, April 7, 2011 in the loving presence of his family.  Born in Holyoke and a long-time resident of Chicopee, he was the son of the late John and Charlotte (McKenna) Harris.  Robert was a retired (29) year employee of Conrail.  He was a Navy veteran of World War II.   An Aviation Radioman, he was stationed at the Naval Air Station, Willow Grove, PA and was awarded the World War II Victory Medal and the American Area Medal.  Robert loved golf and was an avid golfer.  He was a member of the Egg & I Golf League and was a life member of the American Legion, Post 377 of Aldenville.   The family wishes to express their thanks and gratitude to Dr. Claudia Koppelman, Baystate VNA and Hospice and nurse Lauri for their compassion, love, and care given to Robert.  He leaves to cherish his memory, his beloved wife of (62) years, Barbara A. (Barry) Harris; his loving children, Betty Ackerley and her husband, Jeff of Ludlow, Thomas R. Harris and his wife, Robin L. of Springfield, James F. Harris and his wife, Jeanne of Summerville, SC, Michael J. Harris and his fiancee, Barbara of Chicopee; a sister, Phyllis McNeille of Holyoke; (7) grandchildren; (5) great grandchildren and his faithful canine companion, Cujo. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, April 13, 2011 at the Tylunas Funeral Home, 159 Broadway, Chicopee, at 10 a.m.  Burial will follow in Hillcrest Park Cemetery, Springfield.  The family will receive relatives and friends at a gathering to be held at the Tylunas Funeral Home on Tuesday, April 12, 2011 from 4 to 7 p.m.  Memorial contributions in Robert's memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen St., Framingham, MA  01701 or to the Baystate VNA & Hospice, P. O. Box 9058, Springfield, MA  01102.