Rochelle Janine Harris

Born on June 17, 1938, in Edmonton, Alberta, Rochelle lived a long and meaningful life built on love, faith, and kindness. Growing up, she was raised in remote logging camps, lived in cabins without power or running water, learned to trap and hunt for food, and was mostly homeschooled. She met her soul mate, the late Gerald Eade Harris, in Barriere, British Columbia, and together they shared 63 years of marriage before his passing. She was predeceased by her oldest son, Randy Harris, her youngest son, Maxime Harris, her parents, Max & Simone Ross, her sister Elaine, and great grandchild Nova Milkovich.

Rochelle was a devoted wife, a proud and loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, auntie, and friend. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and generosity. She is survived by her children, Shelley (Kim) Farrow, Debbie (Bob) Porter, Greg (Pennee) Harris, 11 grandchildren, Raynie (Brian) Anderson, Kristie (Mike) Stefano, Corrie (Tyler) Pukas, Andrew (Krista) Farrow, Samantha (Emmett) Quinn, Brad (Joanne) Porter, Joe (Maggie) Porter, Jennifer (Cody) Waugh, Jamie (Chantal) Harris, Tyson (Anika) Harris, Bailee (Kolton) Milkovich, 22 great grandchildren, brother Neil Ross, and extended family.

Together, Rochelle and Gerald (Gerry), built a life filled with hard work, devotion, and family. They moved from the North Thompson area to Fernie in 1971. From there, they moved to the South Country eventually making Baynes Lake their forever home. They owned and operated the Baynes Lake Store, G.R. Equine Products, Sweet Road Café, and Isbahani Arabians, all known for the friendly atmosphere, essential goods, and equestrian supplies. It was also their home – lovingly known to family and friends as “the Farm”. On the Farm, they raised horses, as well as many other animals, tended to the land, and created a warm, welcoming space where generations gathered. It was a place where grandchildren came to play, holidays were celebrated with wonderful home cooked meals, and everyone around her felt loved and welcome. The Farm was more than a home – it was the heart of the family, but also served as a secondary home to many others.

Rochelle was a great homemaker, maintained a large vegetable garden, flowerbeds, and fruit trees. She canned many jars of produce over the years, crocheted blankets for every grandchild and great grandchild, and baked a ton of pies and cookies, homemade bread and cinnamon buns, as well as annual birthday cakes for every family member (well over 2500). She fed anyone and everyone that came to her home. Whether it was babysitting her many grandchildren, or telephone calls for advice, she was always there to lend a hand or a listening ear with a gentle smile and positive attitude. She never complained and faced any situation with courage and common sense. Her unconditional love and steadfast care lives on in the generations she helped raise. Her love will live on in her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and all who knew her. She was one of a kind who leaves behind more than just memories. She taught us to take care of one another, to work hard, and to find the joy in everyday.

Mom, thank you for every hug, every lesson, every bit of love you gave us. We will miss you deeply, but we will honor you by living the way you taught us – with love, laughter, and compassion. Rest in Peace Dear Lady, you deserve it.