Aven Rayburn Harris

It is with deep sorrow and love that we announce the passing of Aven Rayburn ‘Ray’ Harris, 85, on August 29, 2025. He was born to Samuel and Alta Harris on March 21, 1940. Ray was the eighth of nine children, growing up surrounded by his siblings in a close-knit family. He had three brothers Haskell Harris, Homer Harris, Douglas Harris and five sisters Doris Garman, Verda Herron, Glenda Cantrell, Linda Adent and Norma Carroll. Aven spent much of his childhood in Omak Washington, after his family moved there from Oklahoma. Soon after high school he became an ironworker. This work took him to projects across the region and beyond, including the construction of the Chief Joseph Dam, the Grand Coulee Dam, and even the Guri Dam in Venezuela. He grew into a man who was known for his strength, hard work, and determination. His craftsmanship and dedication to his work earned him the respect of colleagues and peers alike and he took great pride in the role he played in building landmarks that continue to serve communities today. As a young man, Ray married Barbara Greene, and they moved to Goldendale Washington, where their son, Rodney, was born. Later, they returned to Omak, and welcomed their daughter, Shan to the family. Though Aven and Barbara divorced, some years later, their shared love for their children remained constant throughout his life. Ray later married Pam Boersma and they lived in Brewster where together, they raised their daughter, Dawn. Their years together were filled with good friends, laughter, and family memories. The couple later divorced. Ray’s daughter, Emily, came into his life later, and he deeply valued the time they shared. Aven found joy in the companionship of Susan Barth, with whom he spent many happy years. After retiring, Ray enjoyed a life of leisure, traveling and spending winters in Arizona. He found peace in gardening, playing golf, and soaking in the warmth of good music and even better company. He treasured the time spent with his grandchildren: Sierra, Rylan, Mackenzee and Summer. He loved their summertime visits when they would spend hours swimming in the Methow River by his home. Aven is survived by his sister, Norma Carroll; his children, Rodney Harris, Shan Harris, Dawn Gregory, and Emily Rousseau; his beloved grandchildren, Sierra Harris-Small, Rylan Harris-Small, Mackenzee Smith, Summer Trummert; his great grandchild Kade Trummert; and many cherished nieces, nephews, and extended family members. His passing leaves a hole in the hearts of all who knew him. We take comfort in knowing that his legacy of love for family and unwavering spirit will live on in those he touched and the enduring structures he helped to build. A graveside service will be held at 11a.m. on September 27th, 2025, at Okanogan Valley Memorial Gardens. We invite all who knew Ray to come and celebrate his life with us. May he rest in peace, forever remembered with love.

Aven Rayburn Harris

March 21, 1940 - August 29, 2025