Robert Wert (Bob) Harris

Robert Wert (Bob) Harris, 82, of Salem, Va, formerly of Willis, VA, passed away Saturday, February 20, 2010. Wert was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer W. and Ina Phillips Harris.

He was a beloved husband, survived by wife of 60 years, Loretta Simmons Harris; Loving father to his daughters that he referred to as “his boys”, Sandra Harris and fiancé Colby Powell of Roanoke, Paula Harris and husband Eddie of Willis, and Patricia Williams and husband Frank of Roanoke; Grandchildren, Retta Harris Bertges and husband Mike, Justin Harris and wife Jessica, David Gordon and wife Amber, Sarah Williams; Step Grandson, Tony Williams; Great Grandchildren, Miranda and Andrew Harris, Carter and Kevin Bertges, Emily Gordon; and Step Great Granddaughters, Karlee Newberry and Chelsea Williams.

Wert served in the US Marine Corps, during the occupation of China. He retired from GE in 1987 after 33 years of service as a welder. He also worked at MPS Corp. After retirement, he enjoyed volunteering for the Food Bank, traveling, and wood working.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor David Skole officiating. Interment will follow in the Willis Cemetery. Visitations will be on Monday, February 22, 2010 from 6-8 p.m. at Lotz Funeral Home in Salem, Va and on Tuesday, February 23, 2010 from 6-8 p.m. at Maberry Funeral Home.