Niels Troest Harris

Niels Troest Harris, born on December 19, 1961, in Puerto La Cruz, Venezuela, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, love, and service. Niels was the beloved husband of Janice Evelyn and a cherished stepfather to Jeremiah, Lacy, and Dustin. He was a man who quietly but powerfully touched the lives of those around him with his steadfast principles and deep sense of responsibility.

Niels' life was a testament to his unwavering commitment to his country. Highly decorated, he served with distinction in the United States Army, participating in Panama Operation Just Cause, Bosnia Operation Joint Forge, Iraq Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Afghanistan Operation Enduring Freedom. His military career, spanning over two decades, was marked by his stoic strength and an unyielding dedication to honor and integrity.

Even after retiring from active duty, Niels' commitment to service did not wane. He continued to work for the military as a civilian, standing shoulder to shoulder with his active-duty brethren. His enduring dedication to his comrades and the mission exemplified the values he held dear and the profound sense of duty that defined his life.

Beyond his military achievements, Niels found joy in the simpler pleasures of life. He was an avid watcher of the stock market and a lover of sci-fi movies. Music, too, held a special place in his heart, with classic rock bands like AC/DC and Bruce Springsteen providing a soundtrack to his life. These hobbies offered him moments of relaxation and joy, a testament to his ability to find balance in life.

Niels' family feels profoundly blessed to have had him in their lives. His steadfast values of honor, integrity, and responsibility were the guiding principles he instilled in his stepchildren, helping to shape them into the people they are today. Niels was not just a soldier or a stepfather/grandfather/great-grandfather; he was a man of few words but immense impact, whose quiet strength and deep love will be forever cherished.

Niels Troest Harris will be remembered as a strong, quiet man who stood firmly by his principles, a devoted husband, a loving stepfather, and a distinguished soldier. His life of service leaves an enduring legacy that will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

His memory will live on in the stories shared, the values upheld, and the love that continues to bind his family and friends together. Rest in peace, Niels, and thank you for your service and the love you gave so freely.

Services will be at 10:00 A.M. on Monday, July 22, 2024 at Brooks Chapel in Canyon with Stephen Garvin officiating. Burial will follow at Dreamland Cemetery.