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Obituary for Harry F. Ferris
Harry Ferris, 97, of Siren, WI passed away Sunday, February 23, 2014 at the Burnett County Medical Center, surrounded by family.
Harry was born June 6, 1916 in St. Paul, MN to Frank and Dora Ferris. Due to health issues Frank was experiencing, Harry’s family moved to a small farm near Cook, MN when he was 14 years old. It was here that Harry learned an extremely strong work ethic which stayed with him throughout his life.
Harry enlisted in the US Army in 1941. After basic training he was assigned to the 191st Tank Battalion, where he spent the next 42 months serving combat duty in Anzio, Italy, Africa, and Germany. He earned the rank of Technical Sergeant and was Honorably discharged at the end of WWII. After the war he operated heavy equipment in mines out west and in northern Minnesota.
On September 12, 1954, Harry married Doris Nelson from Siren. Together they bought Doris’ family farm east of Siren where Harry farmed including milking Guernseys. He also worked at the Siren Feed Mill, drove a school bus route, and worked for the USDA ASCS (Ag Stabilization and Conservation Service) eventually employed by the Burnett Dairy Co-op after the purchase of the Siren Mill. Harry retired from Burnett Dairy in 1981 but continued crop farming.
Harry was preceded in death by his wife, Doris; father, Frank; mother, Dora; and sister, Dorothy.
Harry is survived by his children: son, David (Beth) of Siren, WI, daughter, Patty Johnson (Gary) of Andover, MN; grandchildren, Reid and Chloe; and many good friends.
After he retired he enjoyed woodworking, caring for his trees and flowers, feeding and watching a variety of birds, and fishing. Harry and Doris enjoyed taking drives with family and friends around northwestern Wisconsin. There was also nothing Harry liked better than a cup of coffee with friends and “chewing the fat”. No matter how busy he was, he found the time to be a loving Dad and spend time with his kids. He also enjoyed his grandkids in his later years.
Harry’s request for no formal service will be honored by his family with a private interment. And, in lieu of sending flowers, please plant one for yourself or a loved one this spring.
Please join us for sharing of memories with family and friends at the Siren Senior Center on Sunday, March 9th from 2 pm – 5 pm for a celebration of his life (casual attire).
Online condolences may be left at www.rowefh.com . Arrangements have been entrusted to Rowe Funeral Home of Frederic, 715-327-4475.
