Dr. Alan G. Harris, a dedicated husband and accomplished dentist, passed away on December 18, 2025, at the age of 79. He died peacefully in his home in Skokie, Illinois, surrounded by his beloved wife, Linda Chaplik. Alan’s battle with leukemia was long and courageous, a testament to his spirit and determination.
Born on May 23, 1946, in Chicago, Alan was the cherished son of Harold and Fay Harris. He grew up in a close-knit family in the Austin neighborhood before relocating to Skokie at age seven. Alan thrived in this vibrant community filled with friends, baseball, and laughter, forging lifelong connections that would shape his character.
Education and Early Career
For his higher education, Alan attended the University of Illinois before transferring to American University in Washington, D.C. It was during a spring break trip in Miami Beach that he met Linda, who would become his wife in 1971. Their partnership blossomed during their time in D.C., where they not only nurtured their love but also built enduring friendships.
After graduating from college, Alan worked at Baxter Labs before pursuing dentistry at Howard University Dental School. Upon completing his education, he returned to Chicago to further specialize in periodontics at Northwestern University. Alan opened his practice, Suburban Periodontics, where he enjoyed a rewarding career marked by strong relationships with patients and colleagues.
A Life Full of Passion and Generosity
Outside of his professional life, Alan was known for his zest for living. He embraced golf, which fostered numerous friendships and provided opportunities for travel and enjoyment. His interests also included horse breeding and building elaborate model railroads, a hobby he rekindled with friends in recent years. Alan and Linda shared a passion for travel, with their Highland Park home serving as a cherished retreat filled with warmth and love.
Alan’s culinary skills flourished during what he referred to as his “mid-life crisis.” He and Linda enjoyed hosting gatherings, creating menus, and celebrating life together. Their home radiated joy, adorned with family photos, flowers, and laughter.
Alan is survived by Linda and his brother, Scott Harris, along with several nieces and nephews. His generous spirit extended beyond family, evident in his charitable work and thoughtful interactions with everyone he encountered. Friends and family remember Alan for his kindness, respect, and unwavering support.
In his later years, Alan found joy in being an integral part of his extended family, particularly enjoying the company of his nieces and nephews. He was a beloved figure among Linda’s parents, Ruby and Miriam Chaplik, and her sisters, celebrating life’s milestones with them.
Alan’s legacy of kindness and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His family invites those wishing to honor his memory to attend a service on Sunday at 11:00 AM at Chicago Jewish Funerals, located at 8851 Skokie Blvd in Skokie. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Civil Liberties Union, Simon Wiesenthal Center, or the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation.
Alan Harris’s life serves as a reminder of the importance of love, generosity, and lasting connections. His memory will surely be a blessing to all who were fortunate enough to share in his journey.
