Donald Zane Harris

Donald Zane Harris, born August 21st 1958, 67, originally from Western New York, and later of Virginia Beach, Middleport, New York, and finally Defuniak Springs, Florida, entered into rest on April 12, 2026, at home with his wife and children by his side.

Don spent his life working hard and taking care of the people he loved. His early years were filled with adventure and stories that would be told for years to come. He spent time working his cattle farm before founding Don’s Appliance Repair, where he became a familiar and trusted face throughout his small community in New York.

Never one to let a dream go unchased, Don set his sights on becoming a boat captain and made it a reality. Through Reel Pleasure Charters, he spent his summers on Lake Ontario, fishing with family, friends, and people who quickly became both. Later, drawn by a new adventure, he moved to Florida, where he captained a boat for the MWR in Destin, serving and connecting with veterans and active-duty military members.

Don was known for his larger-than-life personality, incredible work ethic, and unwavering devotion to his family and friends. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, a devoted husband and father, and someone who left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

He is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Mary Harris, his children, Donnie Harris(Rebecca), Brandon Harris, Amber Harris(Jake Schmidt), Andrea Maglio( Chris), Katherine Livingston(Ben Schell),and Eric Livingston(Jill), and his siblings Valerie, Ellen, and Al. Don loved more than anything being a "papa" and cherished his grandchildren, he also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will miss him deeply. He was proceeded in death by his parents Gilbert James Harris and Beverly Harris and his brother Gilbert "Jim" Harris.

Per his wishes Don will be cremated and his ashes will be returned to New York at a later date.

Don’s legacy lives on in the stories shared, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave so freely.