Dana D. Harris, 79, of Ottumwa died at 6:49 a.m. July 4, 2026 at his home.
He was born June 20, 1947 in Davenport to Douglas R. and Betty Jean Spencer Harris. He married Aleta J. Hummell on August 18, 1973.
Growing up in Davenport, Dana earned a Masters in Music Education from Northeast Missouri State University. He served as a bandsman in the U.S. Army and had worked as a postal clerk for Ottumwa Post Office, retiring in 2012.
Dana was a member of the United Methodist Church. He was active with Grace Men and choir at church.
He was a member of Ottumwa Masonic Lodge #16 A.F. & A.M., Order of Eastern Star Rose Chapter #552.
Dana volunteered at the Salvation Army and Lord’s Cupboard. He enjoyed music, singing in choir and playing piano, going to the movies, researching genealogy and western history.
Surviving is his wife, Aleta; a daughter, Erin Harris of Ottumwa; a son, Gregory (Erica) Harris of Kansas City, MO; a grandchild, Willow.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
His body has been cremated. Masonic services will be 10:30 a.m., Wednesday July 8th, at Reece Funeral Home followed by memorial services with Crystal James officiating. Military services will be conducted by Walter B. Schafer Post # 775 Veterans of Foreign Wars and O.B. Nelson Post #3 American Legion. The family will be present to greet friends 1 hour prior to the Masonic service.
Inurnment will be in Iowa Veterans Cemetery near Van Meter at a later date.
Memorials may be to the Lord’s Cupboard.
