Donald Francis Harrison

Donald Francis Harrison, 91, of Northglenn, Colorado, died peacefully in his home Friday March 22, 2019.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years Roberta, his two daughters Donna Harrison (Craig Israel) & Barbara Harrison, and his brother Bruce Harrison (Lee). He is also survived by 6 of his 7 grandchildren – Christine Miles (Luke), Dawn Prickett (Grant), Richard Harrison (Sarah), Aaron Johnson (Nancy), Andrea Hermerding (Camille Fourrier), and Isaac Johnson (Daniel Lazzara); and 9 great grandchildren – Alexander, Shaylin, Samantha, Brendan, Evan, Hyrum, Quintin, Liam, and Wyatt.

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, and served on several mental health advocacy boards. He and Roberta were founding members of the Northglenn United 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.

A memorial service will be held at 1pm Saturday, March 30, 2019 at Northglenn United Church of Christ. There will be a military honor ceremony at the National Cemetery at Fort Logan at 11:15 on April 2.

Memorial Service: March 30, 2019 1:00 pm

Northglenn United Church of Christ
10500 Grant Dr
Denver, CO 80233

Graveside Service: April 2, 2019 11:15 am

Ft. Logan National Cemetery
3698 South Sheridan Boulevard
Denver, CO 80235