Harry Millard Fife, Jr.

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Harry Millard Fife, Jr.

Thu, 06/08/2023 - 06:56
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Harry Millard Fife, Jr. passed away May 14, 2023, in Tyler after a short illness. He was born July 24, 1939, in Terrell to Harry M. Fife and Leota Mislivets Darby.  
At the age of five, he moved to Richardson where he was raised by his mom and stepfather Harold Thomas.
After graduating high school, Harry entered Texas Tech University in Lubbock where he took his basic courses.  
Upon leaving Texas Tech University, he joined the Navy. During his Navy tour he served on the aircraft carrier, the USS Bennington. He was part of the VW-1 crew weather squadron that searched for typhoons. The Navy ignited Harry’s passion for flying and travel, which he was able to fulfill later in life. 
 Harry married Linda Cathryn Colley, Jan. 23, 1967 and together they resumed his Naval residence in Hawaii until his tour of duty ended.  
At that time, Harry completed his studies at Texas Tech and graduated in 1969 with a degree in Business Administration. During that time their daughter Cathryn Leigh Fife was born.  
Upon graduation, Harry was offered a job at Shell Oil, so he moved his family to Stafford near the Houston area. Two years later their son John Michael Fife was born.  
In Stafford, Harry was an active member of the Methodist Church. He was especially known for his beautiful yard, wonderful chef-like cooking (especially steaks) and as a popular host.  
Harry’s personality was contagious to everyone around. He loved the outdoors – fishing, hunting, camping and the family Dogwood Farm carried wonderful memories of him for family, cousins and friends. 
Everyone knew about his abilities as an avid fisherman. The fish just came to him when no one else was catching fish.
Eventually, Harry moved his family to Dallas to take over his stepfather’s Excavation Business.  
After a divorce and a period of time he met Suzanne Homan Helberg. Harry and Suzanne were happily married Sept. 11, 1982. Included in this union are his two stepchildren Michelle Helberg McClanahan and Barry Wayne Helberg, whom he loved like his own.
Harry went back to work for Shell and his passion for travel finally came to fruition. He worked in Saudi Arabia for three years.
Harry was happiest when traveling. His children visited and they traveled to many countries together.
Harry was a proud member of The Sons of the American Revolution. He served as President of the SAR, Texas Society, 2008-2009 and was a member of the General Society of the War of 1812.
Upon retirement, Harry and Suzanne moved to Cedar Creek Lake near Gun Barrel City where they remained for his lifetime.
Harry was preceded in death by his parents.  
He is survived by his wife, Suzanne, his two children Cathryn Leigh Fife Lorenz and husband Kevin and John Michael Fife and wife Julianne,  stepdaughter Michelle McClanahan and husband Mark and stepson Barry Helberg and partner Kathy Wettman. Harry is also survived by three grandchildren Caitlin Cathryn Lorenz, Parker Lee Lorenz and Sarah Maxdon Fife, step-grandchildren Travis Ward, Devon Carroll, Phillip Helberg and great-grandson Wayne Helberg. 
The memorial service was held at the Cedar Creek Lake Methodist Church in Tool June 3, 2023.