Robert Lee “Bob” Harris, II, 82, of Indianapolis, passed away on October 21, 2026. Known to all as a generous, proud American deeply devoted to his family, Bob lived independently and was doing well until a car accident two weeks before his passing.
Born on March 11, 1944, in Evansville, Indiana, Bob was the son of the late Robert Lee Harris, Sr. and June (Small) Harris. He grew up to graduate from Ben Davis High School in Indianapolis before answering the call to serve his country. A dedicated veteran, he proudly served in the United States Army 173rd Airborne Brigade during the Vietnam War. His commitment to service spanned a combined 37 years across the U.S. Army, Navy Reserves, and the Indiana National Guard. He was a proud member of the American Legion Post #64 and the VFW Post 908.
Following his military service, Bob worked hard as an extrusion press operator for Bridgeport Brass, ultimately retiring from Olin Brass in the 2004.
Known for his adventurous spirit, Bob’s absolute passion was drag racing. A competitive racer from his teenage years, his love for the sport began at Stout Army Air Field. He never lost his racing spirit, most recently sharing the track and racing with his son, Brian, just last month at Indianapolis Raceway Park (IRP), with a NHRA win.
Above all, Bob was defined by his presence in the lives of his children and grandchildren. He was previously married to Shirley (Trammell) Harris, the mother of his children; though they later divorced, they maintained a meaningful friendship through the years.
He was preceded in death by his siblings, Stanley, Larry, and Daniel Harris; his son, Bobby Harris; and his daughter, Amanda Rocha.
Bob’s legacy lives on through his surviving family, including his sons, Brian Harris and Mark Harris; his grandchildren, Ryan Harris, Alyssa Harris, Kyle Harris, ; and his great-grandchildren, Hannah Rocha, Rihanna Rocha, Xavier, Nicholi, Ava, and Lorali.
Visitation will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. on Monday, October 26, 2026, at the Carlisle – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory located at 39 E High St, Mooresville, IN 46158. Services will be held privately for the family, and Bob will be laid to rest in the Mayo Cemetery in Duff, Indiana.
Friends and family are invited to visit carlislebranson.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.