Malcolm Kintz Harris

Malcolm Kintz Harris, 78, passed away suddenly on the evening of November 30, 2024 at his home in Kingston, NY. Malcolm was born on June 4, 1946 in Pittston, PA to Harold John and Margaret (Shook) Harris. He attended West Pittston High School graduating with class of 1964 and went on to receive his Bachelor's in Mathematics from Wilkes College in Wilkes-Barre, PA in 1968. Later completing his Master's degree at SUNY New Paltz. A teaching opportunity brought Malcolm to settle in Kingston NY in 1968 where he remained on staff at Kingston High School for 21 years. On October 1, 1970, Malcolm and his closest friend, John Butnor, opened what would become his life's work, Fitz's Liquor Store, on Broadway in Kingston. They remained in that space for many years before moving the business to the Caldor Plaza in the town of Ulster where it remains today, run by Malcolm for 54 years until his passing. The business was a perfect fit for Malcolm who always loved numbers and interacting with people. He took great pride in it and that showed.

In addition to his parents, Malcolm was predeceased by his brother Harold Harris, his Uncle Mal and Aunt Eleanor who were very dear to him, his wife Elizabeth (Odom) Harris, and many, many wonderful friends who he missed terribly.

Malcolm is survived by his children, Malcolm Harris (Justine Johnston and her daughter Angela) and Margaret Clarke, his grandchildren who he absolutely adored, Olivia Harris and Logan, Kai, Avery, and Mia Clarke, his first wife, Carol Genthner who he remained very good friends with, her children Paul Genthner and Rebecca Wilson and his lifelong friend and business partner who he met at age 19, John Butnor, and his wife Edith.

Malcolm had developed a beautiful relationship with so many people in our community. We want to thank all who knew him, all who cared for him, and all who allowed him to be of service over these last 54 years. You gave him a great gift in that and he would often comment how much his customers meant to him. Many of you reading this know our family personally and know that Malcolm was our heart. To say we are heartbroken is an understatement. He was one of a kind and we will all suffer greatly from this loss. In lieu of flowers or donations of any kind, hug your loved ones tight in Malcolm's honor.