Arthur John (Jack) Harris DDS
1922 – 2024
After completing 101 journeys around the sun, Jack passed away peacefully January 2, 2024. Born in Oshawa, he lived most of his life in the London ON area. With Audrey Louise Mickleborough (1924-2003) he had three children, Ken (Jo-Anne), John (Patty) and Elizabeth. With his marriage to Sheila Griffith he added three more, James (Janet), John and Jennifer. All will warmly recall the many memories of their relationship with Jack. He will also be remembered very fondly by his grandchildren, Lauren, John, Scott, Ivy, Ruby and Ryan as well as the great grandchildren, Emma, Jack, Karmyn and Westyn and his very caring nieces, Peggy, Carol and Anne and nephew Paul. He was predeceased by his sisters, Peggy Taylor and Mary Ellis.
Jack deployed as a dental technician during World War II, being stationed in Great Britian. On his return to Canada, he attended the University of Toronto graduating with his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1950. He maintained his interest in the military as a militia member of the Royal Canadian Dental Core rising to the rank of Lt. Colonel.
He joined the dental practice of Drs. Kennedy and Stiles in 1952 practicing oral surgery for many years. He subsequently assumed the position of chief of dental surgery at Victoria Hospital in London, a position he held until his retirement in 1990. Throughout his clinical practice he contributed to the profession by holding executive positions in both the Canadian and Ontario Dental Associations, serving as president of the latter organization. He was awarded the Barnabus W. Day Award for distinguished Service by the Ontario Dental Association as well as winning multiple other awards of merit and service in the dental community as well as hospital administrative roles. Jack was also instrumental in the establishment of the School of Dentistry at the University of Western Ontario.
His 101 years allowed a long retirement to pursue his eclectic interests. He relished being a gentleman farmer and maintaining an active outdoor life. There was always time for the grandchildren when they came to visit. He was a clever and accomplished woodworker and neighborhood tinkerer. He also enjoyed travelling and exploring foreign countries taking many photographs on his journeys. Jack was a great raconteur. He also took a great interest in sketching, painting and volunteering his time, in many capacities including that of president, with the Lambeth Art Association. Being active and participating in many activities with friends and colleagues gave him great pleasure.
A long life to celebrate . . . well lived and much enjoyed!
A special note of thanks to the staff at the St. Joseph’s Health Care and Parkwood Institute, Veterans Care Program for the wonderful, compassionate and expert care he experienced.
In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated in celebration of Jack’s life to the Veterans Care Program through St. Josephs Health Care London (https://www.sjhc.london.on.ca/ways-to-give/donate-now).
A reception of commemoration will be held at Harris Funeral Home, 220 St. James Street, London, Ontario at Richmond on Sunday, January 14, 2024 from 2:00- 4:00 PM. Private interment will take place in the spring.