Mr. Herman Louis Harris

His Story: A Time to be Born: Herman Louis Harris, was born on August 12, 1947, in Plaquemine, Louisiana into the union of McArthur Elliot and the late Junius Harris, the eldest of six loving children. A Time to Learn: Herman excelled in his studies from elementary through high school. His love and enjoyment of mathematics his most passionate concentration. While attending Iberville High School, he participated in the mathematics club, and graduated as Salutatorian of the 1965 class. A great mix of brain and brawn, he also participated in basketball, ran track, and was a member of ROTC. Herman continued his educational pursuits, attending Southern University A&M College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana where he majored and eventually graduated, with honors, in Mechanical Engineering. Herman balanced his academic concentrations with social interactions, pledging Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. He also found time to continue his ROTC duties. Never satisfied with knowing "just enough", Herman worked diligently to expand his understanding of the field of Engineering. He later obtained his Masters Degrees from both Wayne State in Industrial Engineering and the University of Detroit in Business Administration. A Time to Love: On December 23, 1972, Herman was united in holy matrimony to his college sweetheart, Janet Marie Honora, who preceeded him in death. From this union two daughters were born, Kalyndra Ann and Keri Grace. Always the soft-spoken and doting father, Herman instilled into his daughters a sense of pride, and love of service. Herman and Janet enjoyed 27 blissful years until her death in 2000. After the passing of his wife, Herman found love and companionship with JoAnn Lett whom he spent much of his free time, becoming extended members of each other's families. A Time to Work: Herman fulfilled his military duty to the United States from 1970 to 1971 as a Lieutenant Private. Afterwards, he found a fulfilling career, utilizing his degrees, with General Motors. He worked in the Reliability area of the corporation, which afforded him the opportunity to travel not only around the country, but to different parts of the world. A Time for Leisure: Herman was a man of many talents and hobbies. He enjoyed the sport of cycling, often riding his bike around scenic landscapes in Michigan, including Belle Isle and Kensington Park. Herman also found entertainment and fellowship in the roller skating community. He found great pleasure in music, through the art of playing his classical guitar, impressing everyone who had the opportunity to hear him play. He sought enjoyment on the dance floor, learning Detroit Ball Room and Chicago Stepping. A Time to Serve: Herman was an extremely giving and gracious, God-fearing man, who never hesitated to assist others. He started his dedication to service during childhood as a member of his local Boy Scouts troop. He took these lessons into adulthood. While working at General Motors, he would frequently travel back to Southern to find young, talented African American engineers to recruit and mentor. Herman also found it important to donate blood regularly to his local blood bank. A Time to Rest: On February 23, 2014, God embraced Herman in his arms and folded him in his love. His transition was made where he could serve his family and friends on the other side.

Mr. Herman Louis Harris

August 12, 1947 - February 23, 2014