Walton "Walt" Forest Harris passed away at home surrounded by his family on Monday morning, March 1, 2021.

Born in Belmont County, Ohio on June 8, 1938 a son of the late William and Mary (Saxton) Harris.

Walt was a self-taught musician and was a drummer in many bands.  He also played the spoons and played up until he died.  He loved to perform for the crowds and "everybody got with it."  Walt was also an avid fisherman, won many angler awards and a few were fortunate enough to be taught by the master.  Walt had a life-long love of racing.  Walt and Patty raced go-carts together and this love of racing was passed along to his sons.  His boys raced bicycles and then proceeded to cars, which has now been passed along to his grandchildren.  His favorite saying to them was "to get with it".  Walt retired from Peabody Coal after twenty-five years of service.

Walt leaves behind his wife of sixty-two years, Patricia (Wortman) Harris whom he married on August 23, 1958; children, James (Lisa) Harris, Teresa Perdue, Rusty (Julie) Harris, Randy (Bobbie) Harris and Marsha Schluessler (Bill Kohler); fourteen grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren and his beloved poochie hound, Munich.

Walt was preceded in death by an infant son, Michael, his parents, two brothers and two sisters.

In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution in honor of Walt to Genesis Cancer Care Center, 2951 Maple Avenue, Zanesville, Oh 43701 or a charity of your choice.

Friends and family may call from 5pm to 8pm on Thursday, March 4, 2021 at Dresden Chapel of Vensil and Chute Funeral Home.