Cliff Harris

It is with the heaviest of hearts we have to announce that William “Cliff” Harris lost a short battle with cancer on April 24, 2023. Cliff passed away surrounded by his family the day before his 73rd birthday. The youngest of three, Cliff was born on April 25, 1950, in Hackensack, New Jersey to Bill and Alice Harris.

Cliff would often reminisce and tell stories of his childhood summers filled with vacations to Cape Cod, time spent exploring the woods behind his childhood home and taking the train from his home in New Jersey to New York with all of his best buddies.

Throughout his childhood, and into his adult years, Cliff developed a great appreciation for music. He saw The Beatles at the age of 14 at Shea Stadium and attended Woodstock in 1969. Cliff always loved music and could often be heard singing to his grandchildren. He effortlessly passed his love of music to his children and grandchildren. The house was always filled with music when he was present.

Cliff had a close relationship with his sister Jill, who enjoyed family trips to visit her in Florida. He was fond of taking photos and made friends at every stop. Naturally charismatic, all were drawn to him. As a young boy, it was no secret that he was the school’s dreamboat. According to his sister Jill, “all the girls were in love with him, and loved to go to parties at ‘Cliffy’s ‘ house.”

In 1979 Cliff met the love of his life, Christine Crivello in Boulder, Colorado. They spent several adventurous years traveling the western United States with their children before settling in Pocatello, Idaho. Cliff’s greatest joy in life was his family. A loving father, Cliff adored his daughters. He raised his sons to be strong and hardworking. His unconditional fatherly love was given to more than just his biological children, several looked to him as a second father. He had an incredible ability to make everyone feel welcomed and loved. He was the best of Grandfathers. Cliff never missed an opportunity to play, teach and bond with his grandchildren.

A master carpenter, Cliff was hardworking and dedicated to his craft. He passed on this talent to his three sons and was mentor to many over the years. He was always willing to donate his time and expertise to anyone in need.

Cliff still made time for the simple things in life. An avid angler and outdoors man, his love of the outdoors transferred to his children and grandchildren. One of his greatest joys was spent hiking, canoeing, and fishing with them. In recent years Cliff could be found listening to music while tending to his garden, His beautiful yard was the envy of the neighborhood. He was an expert at growing Hops, vegetables, and his prized garlic. Friends and family always enjoyed the fruits of his labor. He will be missed daily at morning coffee with his “coffee crew.”

He was truly the gold standard of men, a perfect example of what a father, grandfather, neighbor, and friend should be. He will be forever missed. Cliff’s character and values were a testament to his faith.

We will always remember a saying we heard all of our lives from our beloved dad; “Grooviness is a state of being.” He truly lived these words.

Cliff is preceded in death by his mother, Alice Marguerite Campbell; father, William P. Harris Jr.; and sister, Katherine Dale Harris.

Cliff is survived by his former wife Christine Harris; his children, Orion Winn, Andrew Harris, David Harris, Marguerite (Robbert) Harris, Katherine (Leonel) Harris; grandchildren, Chloe Winn, Haven Winn, Emberlee Pulling, Hank Pulling, Frank Pulling, Ainzlee Ayala, Clifford Ayala, Olivia Ayala and Vinny Ayala; sister, Jill (Victor) Rumana; and nephew, David Buhr. He is also survived by friends turned family, Mykal Eden, Emily Henson and Jesse (Alyssa) Shilk.

All are welcome to a celebration of life being held May 20th, 2023 at 2:00 pm. The celebration will be held in Arbon Valley on Lusk Loop Road. Take Mink Creek Road all the way to Arbon Valley Road and turn left. Follow Arbon Valley Road until you come to Lusk Loop Road. Drive 1.5 miles and you will arrive. Signs and balloons will be displayed along the way to help guide you. Cliff’s celebration will be potluck style, main meal and beverages will be provided, feel free to bring a favorite salad or dessert.

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