Val "John" Harris, 84, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2025 at the Meadows of Ottawa. John was born September 8, 1940 in Columbus, Ohio to the late Jack and Lucille (Ambos) Harris who preceded him in death. He was a 1958 graduate of Lima Senior High school and on August 29, 1964 he married Joyce (Eikenbary) Harris. 

John proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1959 to 1963, where he discovered his passion for cooking while preparing meals for his fellow servicemen. This passion became the foundation of a long and successful career in the food service industry. 

He began his professional journey with L&K Restaurants, starting as a manager in Chillicothe before eventually transferring to Bluffton. Through hard work and leadership, John rose to become Vice President of Operations. In 1984, he took a bold step to become an entrepreneur, purchasing his first restaurant - Henry's in Ottawa. The following year, he became owner and operator of twelve L&K locations, later known as JR Valentine's. Over the course of his career, John's dedication and business acumen led him to own and operate twenty-four restaurants. He was proud to celebrate forty years of Henry's in Ottawa.

Beyond his professional life, John was a dedicated member of the Bluffton First Methodist Church. He was also actively involved in the Rotary Club of Ottawa, the Lions Club of Bluffton and the American Legion. He cherished spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, never missing an opportunity to attend their sporting events. John also enjoyed bowling and his Friday golf league with close friends. He will be remembered for his generous spirit, strong work ethic and unwavering love for his family and community.

Survivors include his wife, Joyce Harris of Bluffton; two children, Jody (Michael) Benton of Columbus, Ohio, Jeff (Samantha) Harris of Pandora; six grandchildren, Joshua (Carrie) Vandenburg, Samuel (Lucie) Vandenburg,  Elijah (Chloe) Harris, Gabrielle Benton, Aiden Harris, Colin Harris; eight great-grandchildren, Zoe, Judah, Sophia and Liam Vandenburg, Diego Atayi, Brooklyn, Molly and Daisy Harris and two sisters-in-laws, Judi Harris of Lima, Judy Harris of Lima.

John was also preceded in death by two brothers, Douglas Harris and Michael Harris. 

John's services will begin at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at Bluffton First Methodist Church with Pastor Bob Clinger officiating. Burial will be in Maple Grove Cemetery following the service. Visitation will be Tuesday, July 1, 2025 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Chiles-Laman Funeral & Cremation Services - Bluffton and one hour prior to the service at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Bluffton First Methodist Church.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com/