Laguna Niguel, CA – Gust William Harris, 90, passed away in Laguna Niguel, CA on Saturday, December 1, 2019. Born in Northeastern Ohio to William and Melpomene Harris, he was the eldest of three children.

Always fun-loving and with a sense of adventure, he was blessed from a young age with many wonderfulfriendships that endured throughout his life.As a teenager, he helped out in his father's grocery store, before entering the Army during the Korean War.There, Gust's exceptional gifts in relating to people soon became evident, and he was chosen to be a cadre man and instructor.It was there that he began to have his first inkling of his future profession.In his spare time, he loved books and reading; he read the paper from cover to cover each day, as he had a great interest in history, social studies, and current events.He loved movies and adored music. A talented dancer, it was hardly a surprise that he met his wife, Millie, at Idora Park's Ballroom.It didn't take them long to realize their shared interests and passions, and they soon fell in love and married.

Soon after the wedding, Gust returned to college, now with the goal of becoming a teacher. He graduated with honors with a Master's of Science in Education and became employed with the Warren City Schools.Again, his ability to relate to his students shined through, and he became an Occupational Work Experience Coordinator, working with at-risk high school students—instructing them in the classroom, while procuring jobs for them, all while teaching them life skills.His talents for teaching and relating to his students made him extremely popular and respected among them, as evidenced by the many letters of gratitude he received from former students, explaining the impact he had on their lives.Oftentimes, while out in public, he would be suddenly stopped by a former student, rushing up to him, excited to see him and wanting the opportunity to tell him how much he had meant to them.

His desire to help others and fondness for his community also led him to become a life-long Mason and Shriner.He was also a member of A.H.E.P.A. and served as its President.

However, of all of his interests, there was none more important to Gust than his family.Family always came first, for family was his biggest love of all. Together with Millie and their two children, they often went sightseeing or to museums and spent countless fun times with relatives.When each summer arrived, Gust got out his road maps, determining where the family might take a summer vacation, as they learned about a different portion of the United States each year. Always, Gust instilled in his children the importance of character and honesty.He was a guiding and supporting force for them.

Once retired, Gust and Millie moved to Southern California, where their children had relocated,allowing them to spend many wonderful times together.Gust and Millie also joined many clubs and took part in many social activities in their community.They shared a truly carefree retirement.

Even in later years, they continued their shared love for dancing.When dancing together, the floor would often part, as everyone would become a spectator while they swirled around the floor.The passion that first brought them together continued throughout the entirety of their married life.

Gust will be remembered as a kind, caring, and loving person—always with a twinkle in his eye and a smile upon his face--a consummate family man, as well as an individual who helped countless young people to be their best.He leaves behind a loving and adoring family—two children, Melanie (Harris) Burian; Dr. William Gust Harris; son-in-law, Jim Burian; two sisters, Silvia (Glass) and Des (Puhak).

A private service for immediate family will be held near Gust's home.Donations in his honor may be made to St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, Warren, OH.