David Lowell Harris, 67, of Atlantic, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Saturday afternoon, February 22nd, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones at CHI Health Immanuel in Omaha, Nebraska.
Born on August 24, 1957, in Sigourney, Iowa, to Lowell and Joyce (Hall) Harris, David spent his life dedicated to his work and his family. A man of quiet strength and sharp intellect, he took immense pride in his craft, working at the local metal bearing manufacturing company for an incredible 41 years, 7 months, and 18 days. His dedication and expertise in manufacturing machinery led him to career-defining opportunities, including two years spent in China and Germany, where he was entrusted to help set up and optimize company operations. His impact on the company and his colleagues was immeasurable. His work was his purpose, it was what kept him going, giving him structure, pride and a reason to push forward every day. Besides his children, it was one of the greatest constants in his life.
David faced more than his share of struggles, and while the road wasn’t always easy, one thing remained constant—he loved fiercely. His children knew that despite the hardships, his love for them was deep and unwavering. And now, he has finally found his peace, free from the weight of regret.
David’s wrestling days in high school were full of satisfying accomplishment. In 1975, as a senior at Atlantic High School, he placed 6th in the Iowa Boys High School State Wrestling Tournament at 126 pounds. Though he never made a big deal about it, his family knew it was one of those things he was quietly proud of.
Outside of work, David found joy in the simple things—fishing, hunting and being around his kids and family. In later years, he developed a love for family night Mexican dominos, where his competitive side came out in full force. His kids will forever cherish the memories of his funny-frustrated comments during the game; a side of him they all loved to see.
David had a big heart, though he didn’t always wear it on his sleeve. He could be quiet and reserved, but when he spoke, his words carried weight. His redneck humor was unmatched, and his kids will forever hear his one-liners, especially his classic “Pertnear” in the most obvious moments. David also had an undeniable love for Schwann’s vanilla ice cream and a deep belief that no meal was complete without potatoes—a tradition his family won’t soon forget.
Besides his incredible career, his children were his greatest accomplishment. His legacy lives on through them and his grandchildren, who will carry forward the lessons he instilled—work hard, stay strong and figure it out. David had a deep love for his children and was never shy about bragging about them. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
David is survived by his father, Lowell Harris of Atlantic; son, Wade Harris of Stuart, Iowa; daughters, Natalie (Stephen) Ritter of Atlantic and Paige (Logan) Witte of Stuart; nine grandchildren, Oliver, London and Briton (children of Wade), Tessa, Corbin and Nellee (children of Natalie and Stephen), Kinnick, Harlow and Sutton (children of Paige and Logan); sisters, Lori (Craig) Stuart of Atlantic, Kim (Terry) Hepler of Atlantic and Christine (Scott) Fulk of Atlantic; brother, Joel (Rita) Harris of Hudsonville, Michigan; and many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.
He is preceeded in death by his mother, Joyce Harris.
Visitation with family present will be from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Friday, February 28th, 2025, at Roland Funeral Home in Atlantic, with a Celebration of Life Memorial Service beginning at 6:00 p.m. A private family burial to occur at a later date.
Memorials may be made to the family for later designation.
Roland Funeral Service is caring for David’s family and his arrangements. Condolences may be left at www.rolandfuneralservice.com.
