Dale Alan Harris MD's Obituary
The family of Dale Alan Harris, M.D., age 61, is heartbroken to announce his passing on October 3, 2025. Born in Columbus, Ohio, to parents Emerson F. Harris, Jr., and Doris Marie Robbins Harris, Dale lived a life marked by compassion, dedication, and joy.
A proud graduate of Westerville North High School (Class of ’82), Dale went on to earn degrees from Miami University of Ohio and The Ohio State University College of Medicine. He completed his residency in Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine. He built a distinguished career serving patients with care and expertise for over 25 years.
Dale’s early years included a brief time in New Hampshire, where he played football for Milford Area Senior High School and helped lead the team to a state championship. Upon returning to Ohio, he continued his athletic pursuits at Westerville North, excelling in football and track, and participating in the school’s Medical Careers program. From a young age, Dale knew he wanted to become a doctor—and he never wavered from that dream.
Dale was a man of many passions. He was a devoted Westerville North Warriors and USC Trojans fan. He always dressed in cardinal and gold on “SC” football game days. He loved his dogs deeply and cared for them with tenderness. He found joy in scuba diving in the world’s bluest waters, playing racquetball and tennis, cooking gourmet meals, listening to music, traveling, and spending time with friends over card games and good conversation.
Known for his vibrant personality and generous spirit, Dale was a loyal friend who never missed reminding others of an upcoming birthday, anniversary or special occasion. He stayed connected with loved ones near and far, often through thoughtful messages and calls. To many, he was “a friend to everyone,” “one of a kind,” “a beautiful and kind soul,” and “a great man.” His warmth and humorous quips could light up any room.
Affectionately nicknamed “Little Bubby” by his family and “The DooWah Kid” by friends, Dale lived life with enthusiasm and heart. One of his favorite sayings was “Hoka Hey!”—a reflection of his bold and adventurous spirit.
Dale is preceded in death by his parents, Emerson Floyd Harris, Jr. and Doris Marie Robbins Harris; grandparents Emerson F. Harris, Sr. and Edith Beavers Harris, and John Willie Robbins and Marie Robbins Dunlap; and uncles James “Jack” Johnson and Robert Hunter.
He is survived by his brother Bryan D. Harris (Brenda); niece Millie M. Dolcé (Greg); great-nephews Ezra and Joel Dolcé; great-niece Vera Dolcé; aunt Ruth J. Hunter; stepbrothers Robert (Rhonda) Evans and Leonard (Monique) Evans and families; a host of loving cousins, cherished friends, “special nieces” and his beloved border collie, Ringo.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Dale’s honor on Friday, October 17, 2025, at St. Philip Episcopal Church, 166 Woodland Ave. Family and friends are invited to pay respects from 5:30 to 6:00 p.m., followed by a service of remembrance at 6:00 p.m., officiated by Father Christopher Richardson. A small reception will follow at the church. All are welcome.
In tribute to Dale’s love for USC, guests are welcome to wear cardinal and/or gold—though not required.
The service will be livestreamed at: https://www.youtube.com/@st.philipepiscopalchurchco2127/streams
Dale loved his dogs and took great care of them. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dale’s memory to the Humane Society of Delaware County at the link below: https://www.hsdcohio.org or https://hsdcohio.org/donate/#top
Dale will be deeply missed and forever remembered for the love he gave, the joy he shared, and the life he lived so fully. Hoka Hey!
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