Christopher Allen Harris

Christopher Allen Harris September 27, 1982 – August 8, 2025

Christopher Allen Harris, 42, of Mill City, Oregon, passed away suddenly on August 8, 2025, following a car accident. He was born on September 27, 1982, in Salem, Oregon, to Bruce Allen Harris and Dianna Lee (Neal) Harris.

Chris attended Gates Elementary School, Mill City Middle School, and Santiam High School, where he was active in sports. Standing 6'4" with an athletic build, he excelled in football, track, basketball, and baseball. One year he earned the honor of being named a Tri-River All-Star. His academic achievements were equally impressive he scored exceptionally high on the SAT and earned a scholarship to Willamette University. He graduated from Santiam High School in 2001.

At age 17, Chris began working at Frank’s Lumber, where he held positions including grader and quality control, helping certify lumber. During this time, he also attended Linn-Benton Community College and Willamette University, later enrolling at the University of Oregon with dreams of becoming a psychiatrist and helping others. Most recently, he was employed by Comcast as an installer.

Chris was blessed to marry Sara Harris, and together they had a son, Taven, who was the light of his life. Although their marriage ended, Chris and Sara remained committed to co-parenting and giving Taven the best life possible. Later, Chris reconnected with his high school crush, Michelle Etherton.

Adventurous by nature, Chris developed a passion for skydiving and joined the Molalla, Oregon Skydiving community. He loved traveling to Hawaii and visiting beaches which was his happy place. Above all, Chris was devoted to his family and friends. He was fun-loving, a self-proclaimed goofball with a great sense of humor, and someone who brought joy to those around him.

Chris was preceded in death by his aunt, Kathleen Harris, and his nephew, Derek Conner. He is survived by his parents, Bruce and Dianna Harris; his son, Taven Harris, and Taven’s mother, Sara Harris; his significant other, Michelle Etherton; his sister, Brandie Harris; and numerous extended family members and friends.