Obituary
Leonard "Len" Harris, 98, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026, in Scottsdale, Arizona. Beloved husband and best friend of Eleanor "Ellie" (née Somer) for 72 wonderful years. Loving father of Gail French and the late Stuart Harris; cherished grandfather of Christopher, Katherine, Melanie, Hannah, and Sofia French, and much-loved great-grandfather of Giovanna French and Michael and Michaela Tomkins; treasured uncle, great-uncle, and friend to many. Len was a self-made businessman who owned and operated Harris Equipment Company for 43 years, later welcoming his son into the business to carry on the family legacy. He also designed a home in Arizona, where he and Ellie spent many happy winters together. While he was deeply passionate about his work, retirement allowed him to travel internationally, enjoy long-distance bike rides, and devote more time to what brought him the greatest joy-being with his beloved family, especially his grandchildren. Len and Ellie hosted many High Holiday gatherings and were longtime members of Am Shalom. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. Memorial donations may be made in Len's memory to Am Shalom (www.amshalom.com) or the Jewish National Fund (www.jnf.org/donate). Memorial donations may be made in his name to Am Shalom, www.amshalom.org or Jewish National Fund, www.jnf.org/donate. Chapel service, Monday, March 16, 2026; 12:15 PM at Shalom Memorial Funeral Home, 1700 W. Rand Road, Arlington Heights, IL. Interment to follow at Shalom Memorial Park. For the link to view the service, shiva information and to leave condolences: www.shalommemorial.org or (847) 255-3520.