On Thursday, July 13, 2006, an empty space was left on earth. John David “Chip” Harris departed this life to join his son Ryan. Chip was most proud of his family: Kathy, his wife; his children, Todd, his wife, Kelly and their soon to be born daughter; Ryan; Poppie and her fiancé, Amos; Ryan(deceased); Andrew; Erin and his sister Debbie and her husband, John. True to his nature, Chip gloried in the successes and accomplishments of others much more than in his own. And his own were no small feat. From the humble beginnings of a one room school house in Hurley, New York, Mr. Harris began to carve into life an unforgettable future. His unbridled curiosity, love of learning and ability to find good in each person he met were the tools of his many endeavors.

Chip graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Manhattan College with a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science degree. He was also the college’s nominee for the Rhodes Scholarship. Before enrolling in law school at the University of Notre Dame, Mr. Harris served in and received an honorable discharge from the United States Navy. Chip’s respect for the dignity of each individual led him to his ultimate specialty in the law, personal injury and wrongful death litigation. He was among the first group of attorneys in Arizona to achieve the certification of “Specialist” in these areas when the designation was implemented by the State Bar in 1991.

In addition to his successful law practice, Chip thoroughly enjoyed sharing his expertise and experience with a younger generation as a Professor of Law Adjunct at the Arizona State University College of Law teaching Trial Advocacy. He also accepted an invitation to become a judge for the Town of Paradise Valley where, in court, Chip may have occasionally deviated a bit from the law as it is known to others. Nevertheless, he was loved and admired by defendants, plaintiffs, staff and colleagues because he treated each with the respect and consideration they deserved.

Chip also served in the Maricopa County Superior Court system as a Judge Pro Tem since1988. In this capacity, Chip followed the letter of the law. Included in this position came the privilege of performing marriage ceremonies, which Chip did with regularity and great enthusiasm. Chip’s list of other professional memberships and honors is lengthy and admirable.

As with his professional career, Chip was also an overachiever on the golf course, playing to a handicap of 2-at times. He was a student of the game of golf as he was the game of life. Anyone lucky enough to play in his foursome found a genuine friend, mentor and cheerleader.

Anyone lucky enough to know Chip knew he played the game of life to its fullest. In his last days, Chip fought his cancer with tenacity, strength and courage maintaining a quiet dignity. Surrounded by his family, Chip died, graduating from life with honors.

A visitation will be held on Monday, July 17, 2006 from 6:00 –9:00 p.m., at Brophy Chapel, 4701 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 18, 2006 at 10:00 a.m., at Brophy Chapel.