Lance Anthony Harris, a church chef and caterer, passed away on Wednesday, February 25, 2015 at his home in Shaler. He was 56.

Mr. Harris was born in Washington, D.C. on October 31, 1958 to Vivian and Nathaniel. He studied English at the University of Pittsburgh for several years after graduating from West Mifflin North High School.

An avid lover of cooking, Lance worked with his father in the kitchen of the Hilton Hotel for many years before starting his own business, Harris Catering.

Food ministry became an important part of Mr. Harris'' work. While catering weddings, graduation parties, and funerals, he pioneered the food ministry of St. Paul''s United Methodist Church which has blossomed into a multi thousand dollar mission. He organized and prepared weekly evening meals as well as Sunday brunches for church goers. Pastor Ron Hoellein admired Lance for his giving spirit. "He was a man who was a dedicated servant to so many people, whether in helping in any way he could, or feeding through his cooking ministry, or just being present. He cared in a kind, gentle, and loving way," Hoellein said.
Stemming from a family of musicians, one of Mr. Harris'' favorite past times was playing the cello. He could often be found listening to Bach Cello Suites or Stevie Ray Vaughan whenever he was away from the kitchen. Mr. Harris also cooked for his friends and family in his free time. "Lance brought his expertise in the kitchen to camp and raised the caliber of camp cooking to an all time high," good friend, Robb Montgomery, said, remembering the camping trips their families shared together. "I''ll never forget the panicked look on his face when I took him completely out of his comfort zone and made him climb a 60 foot high rock cliff. Although quite nervous, he climbed up with all of his kids, and Janet, smiling the entire time. We will always remember his smile," Montgomery said.

Mr. Harris is survived by wife, Janet, children, Lance (Alex), Olivia, and Luther, brother, Bruce, uncle, John Vincent Jones, a multitude of cousins, nieces, and nephews. Funeral Arrangements are under the direction of the Eloise B. Kyper Funeral Home, Inc. A viewing will take place at St. Paul''s United Methodist Church, 1965 Ferguson Road, Allison Park, PA, 15101 from 1:00-3:00pm on Sunday, March 1st, followed by a 3:00 funeral service and a light reception.

Written tributes and memorials are welcomed and encouraged at www.Kyperfuneralhome.com

Written by Olivia Harris