Harris Barbier, Naperville, IL

 

Harris Barbier Jr., 79, beloved son, brother, father, husband, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to many, died suddenly on Tuesday, May 23rd, 2023, in Naperville, Illinois.

Harris was born in New Orleans, LA, to Eva and Harris Barbier Sr. After graduating from East Jefferson High School, New Orleans, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served from 1961-1964.

He married Mary McKenna in August 1984.

Harris had a wry sense of humor that was appreciated by all who knew and loved him. Anyone who knew Harris and Mary likely remembers that Mary is a voracious reader and Harris’s favorite joke about that was, “If the book is any good, they’d make a movie out of it.”

Harris will be remembered for his kindness, warmth, and generosity. Everyone he cared about was always greeted with a wide smile and a strong, warm hug. He enjoyed being a member of the Windy City Miata Club, playing tennis, doing creative woodworking, fishing, and traveling, especially trips with Mary and their Miata friends. He was a fan of several sports and cheered for both Chicago and New Orleans teams.

He is survived by his wife Mary; brothers Mike (Paula) Barbier and Rich (Debbie) Barbier; sons Harris (Li) Barbier III and Scott (Lori) Barbier and daughter Melissa (Jesse Ronneau) Barbier; stepchildren Mary Therese McKenna, Michael McKenna, Patrick Schmidt, Tim (Colette) McKenna, Charles (Susan) McKenna, Rob (Kim) McKenna, and Jim (Marianne) McKenna; 20 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Harris was preceded in death by his parents; two stepchildren, Patricia McKenna and Kevin McKenna; and a grandson, Keegan McKenna.