Donald Francis Harrison

BIRTH

2 Jan 1928

McCook, Red Willow County, Nebraska, USA

DEATH

22 Mar 2019 (aged 91)

Northglenn, Adams County, Colorado, USA

BURIAL

Fort Logan National Cemetery

Denver, Denver County, Colorado, USA

 

His life exemplified his deep love for his family, his love of learning, and his unwavering service for his fellow man. The legacy he leaves behind for those who knew and loved him will never be forgotten.

Don was born January 2, 1928 in McCook Nebraska to George and Maude Harrison. He attended McCook High School and graduated in 1946. Shortly thereafter, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served as a clerk in Corpus Christi for the duration of the war.

His love for his country extended throughout the rest of his life. He was an active participant in the Republican party, served as an election official for decades, participated in school committees for his children and grandchildren, served on several mental health advocacy boards. He and Roberta were founding members of the Northglenn Unitec Church of Christ, and Don served the church extensively for many decades. Don’s tireless service to actively make his community and the world around him a better place was an inspiration to all those who knew him.

Don earned both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Education from the University of Colorado. He earned his living as a school teacher, a principle, and a school supply & text book salesman, but his love of learning extended far beyond the classroom. He read extensively his whole life, having a particular love for History, politics, and science, and he instilled the same love of learning into his children and grandchildren. His home was filled with books, and his children and grandchildren were taught that they could learn and accomplish anything if they set their minds to it.

June 3, 1951 Don married the love of his life Amy Roberta Hawks, also a school teacher. They raised two beautiful daughters together. Later in their lives, in order to help and support their daughter, they took in and raised 5 of their 7 grandchildren. Don’s unwavering love was a rock in all of their lives. He showed through his quiet service, unfailing kindness, and devotion that no matter the circumstances, in his family, you were loved and were safe.

Don had a deep love for the outdoors and the beauty of nature. His time with his family was filled with camping trips, fishing, sailing, tennis, and skiing. He learned to fly, and he owned a small plane that he flew around the country for years. Don spent countless hours watching over his grandchildren at sporting events, and he never failed to encourage any pursuit they chose to follow.

His devotion to his church, his community, and most especially his family leaves a legacy that made the world a better place. He will be greatly missed.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents George and Maude Harrison, his brothers Elton and Stuart Harrison, and his grandson Jeremiah Johnson.