David John Harris was born on April 9, 1943, in Missouri to John and Maxine Harris.

David earned a degree in Theology from Ambassador College in Pasadena, California, and later received a master’s degree in Recreation Studies from UCLA.

Dave met Peggy Lochner at Ambassador College, and the two were married in 1966 in Orr, Minnesota, during the Worldwide Church of God Summer Educational Program. Dave and Peggy had four children — Robb, Shelly, Shana, and Cali — while living in Pasadena, California. In 1984, the family moved to Fort Collins, Colorado, where Dave lived until his death.

Over the course of more than fifty years, Dave built a long and meaningful career in the scrap metal and electronics recycling industry. He genuinely enjoyed his work and remained engaged in it until the end of his life.

In 2000, Dave was ordained into the Church of God ministry. Throughout this season of his life, he served as a pastor, delivered sermons, wrote editorials, articles, and booklets, and served within the Church of the Eternal God. His faith was central to his life and shaped the way he served and connected with others.

Dave was preceded in death by Peggy in April 2023. He is survived by his four children and eight grandsons: Robb and Laura Harris and their sons, Caymus and Talus; Shelly and Frank Bruno and their sons, Nicolas and Timothy; Shana and Eric Rank and their sons, Gideon, Nolan, Milo, and Jude; and Cali Harris. He is also survived by his siblings, Bob Harris, Dan Harris, and Mary Tourville.

Dave’s life was marked by faith, deep conviction, and a remarkable ability to remain optimistic. He delighted in his family, especially his eight grandsons, and devoted himself to supporting them. He loved conversation, ideas, and a well-timed dad joke, and he had a way of bringing encouragement and perspective to those around him. He will be deeply missed by his family and by the many people whose lives he touched through his work, ministry, and example.