John David Harris was born on 3 May 1941, the son of J.D. and Maurine Hobby Harris.

Dave grew up in Poplar Bluff, MO, and graduated from Poplar Bluff High School in the Class of 1959. After graduation, he attended University of Missouri - Columbia for one year.

In 1962, Dave enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and, after shipment to southeast Asia, became one of the Air Force's first K-9 Handler’s in Vietnam. His unit was the 3rd Security Police Squadron at Bien Hoa Air Base and his dog was 'King' - E812. As an Airman First Class, he received an honorable discharge in 1966. On 14 February 1970, he married Kay Eaton in Fayette, MO.

Dave returned to college and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree from Central Methodist College in Fayette, and later he graduated from the University of Missouri - Columbia with his Master’s Degree. He went on to teach speech, drama, driver’s education, and history for Fayette Public Schools. He later served as an elementary principal in Blackwater, Fayette, Moberly, and Westran. He loved children and delighted in making them laugh, especially with the 'taking off his thumb trick.'

After retirement, Dave worked in advertising at the Moberly Monitor Index and also enjoyed his hobbies of golfing, fishing, woodworking, gardening, and traveling. His greatest joy was being 'PaPa Dave' to his two granddaughters, Anna Kate and Alaina Link, whom he cherished.

Community involvement was important to Dave and this included serving on the boards of the Moberly Parks and Recreation, the Community Kitchen, and as an active member of the VFW Post 2624, Optimist Club, Randolph County Retired Teachers, Lion’s Club, the Moberly Citizen’s Police Academy and the Vietnam Dog Handler Association.

Dave was responsible for organizing and placement of the War Dog Memorial in Rothwell Park and the placement of flags lining his street to honor our country and its veterans every year. Dave had a zest of life, never met a stranger and had the ability to make others laugh, no matter where he went.

Medals and Awards

National Defense Service Medal
Vietnam Service Medal
Vietnam Campaign Medal

Burial

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