Clifford Harris

Clifford Harris was born in 1910, died in 1987. He was a Scout, and later the Chairman of Western Cape Scouting, Chairman of the National Finance Committee, and National Vice President.

A tribute to Clifford Harris

Scouting has recently lost a great friend in the death of Clifford Harris on Thursday 8 October 1987 at age 77. Mr Harris was born in Mossel Bay in 1910 and chose the field of Civil Engineering for his career and, as is well known, he achieved outstanding success' not only through directing the efforts of his Company, but in many respects relating to the well-being of the Civil Engineering profession. His contribution was recognised when he was appointed President of the South African Institution of Civil Engineers in 1974. He was clearly one of the outstanding Civil Engineers of his time.

Notwithstanding the demands of his career, Mr Harris became involved in many matters of community interest. Numerous organisations and educational institutions found in him a willing and valued friend and benefactor. Whilst Mr Harris was a Scout for a short period in his early life it was not until the early 1970's that he became involved in Scouting once more. His position in the community was recognised through his election as a Vice President of Cape Western, and he subsequently served as Chairman of Cape Western for a period of more than 10 years. He held office in no nominal capacity, but was in fact actively involved in every facet of the Movement's activities. He was a constant source of stimulation to Scouting leadership at every level.

He was essentially a man with very human and very simple qualities and he was always approachable and always ready and willing to give advice and, I may add, frequently forthcoming in making his own views known in no uncertain manner on any issue that he regarded as important. After serving as Chairman in Cape Western he became Chairman of the National Finance Committee and the advice that we had always been receiving, became available and invaluable to the Chief Scout and the National leadership. This contribution was recognised at the National Scout Council meeting in 1987 when Mr Harris was elected National Vice Present.

His many friends will remember him with gratitude and affection as a man of great compassion and generosity in so many different ways and Cape Western extends its sincere condolences to his family on their very great loss.

Source: Cape Western Scouter
Author: Norman Osburn, Area Commissioner at the time
Date: November 1987