obituary: Joel Harris

Commemorating the first anniversary of his death. 

Joel Harris: December 14, 2041 to September 19, 2085. He was 43 years old. 

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Joel Harris was the third and final child of Tad and Tosha Harris. He was born into the third generation of the Harris family, after Lakeside Heights founders Rebecca and Troy Harris. 

Joel (pictured left) was ten years younger than his oldest sibling, Alana (mother to Melissa). He was much closer to his brother Toby (father to Lucy, Sarah, and Sam) who was only two years older. He was a spirited child and popular teen who excelled socially. 

He was especially remembered for being a bit of a casanova in his younger years, but his favorite girlfriend by far was always Aurora Lind. 

(Photographic evidence that Joel used to take Aurora into his parents bedroom to make out.) 

Joel met Aurora in his senior year of high school, she was a freshman. They were totally inseparable for that year, but he had to leave her behind to attend college. They kept in touch, but they both dated other people while they were apart. 

Joel attended Sim State University, where he befriended Cabe Deppiesse in his freshman year. They were obviously complete opposites in every way, but they became fast friends. 

Joel graduated in 2064 with a degree in Mechanics and launched his career with the Air Force.

Joel and Aurora reconnected after she finished university and they were married in September of 2074.

After some struggle, they welcomed their first child, Zachary in March of 2078.

Joel kept few close friends in his lifetime, only those dearest to him, which included primarily his wife, his brother, and his best college friend, Cabe. Joel and Cabe went on to have long and successful military careers, and they were privileged to work together many times.

Aurora was five months pregnant when Joel deployed in May of 2083, in what would eventually become his final deployment. He was stationed at the Lunar Base and able to stay in close contact with his family until his final days. His ship was struck down by alien fire at the height of the conflict.

Joel is preceded in death by his parents, Tad and Tosha Harris. He is survived by his wife, Aurora; children, Zachary and Rebecca; best friend, Cabe; siblings, Alana and Toby; and many nieces and nephews. He was a revered father, husband, brother, and friend, and he will be missed.