Harry Gifford

Harry Gifford, 100, of Aurora died on June 28, 2018 in his home at the Cherry Creek Retirement Village in his sleep. He was born on July 7, 1917 in Bloom, Kansas to Harry Clay and Ina May (Tipton) Gifford. He spent his childhood bouncing from the family farm to an old stone house and finally to Kinsley, Kansas. His family lived across the street from Fred Brodbeck and in the summers he worked in the Brodbeck Carnival traveling around from town to town. Harry was one of five brothers, all of whom were called to serve in World War II. He was drafted into the Army and served as a truck driver as part of Service Company. He arrived in Normandy eleven days after D-Day. Upon landing, he unloaded the kitchen and was immediately pressed into service transporting troops from the beach to the front lines. He followed Patton on his march throughout Europe and had more than a few close calls but managed to make it thorough the war with nothing but a cut on his face. He didn’t speak about his experiences in World War II until 60 years had passed. He did his best to focus on the good times and shenanigans he got into with the rest of his company rather than the hardships they faced. Harry was, at his core, a positive person and it carried him through the war. Upon his return from the war, he met Lucylle Agnew. He took her to a poker game on their first date and she cleaned out everyone there. Harry was told not to bring her back, but he knew he’d found the person he wanted to spend his life with. They were married on December 1, 1946. They began their married life traveling and working with the carnival, as Harry had done before the war. They eventually left Kinsley and settled in Wichita, Kansas. Harry and Lucylle were married 67 years and raised two daughters in addition to the many foster children they opened their home to. Upon his retirement he took to the road, driving across the country with Lucylle as his shotgun. They backpacked across Europe when they were in their 80’s, following the path he took during World War II. They were constantly moving and forever busy visiting the many friends they’d collected throughout their long life together. Harry was a solid presence in the lives of everyone who knew and cared for him. He was quiet but stubborn and had a sly sense of humor. His family adored him and he will be deeply missed. At almost 101 years old he was ready to go, he hung on as long as he did so he could welcome a great-granddaughter to the family. She was his sunshine in his last days. He is survived by two daughters: Haranna, Marchel, his foster daughter: Rita; four grandchildren: Tarina, Tarren, Trent & Tracy; four great-grandchildren with another on the way; as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends. In honor of Harry, a Graveside service will be held 9:30AM, Friday July 6, 2018 at Fort Logan National Cemetery Staging Area ""B"" (4400 West Kenyon Ave, Denver, CO 80236). In Lieu of flowers, donation may be made out to The Fallen Heroes Fund (https://www.fallenheroesfund.org/ Please give your condolences to the Gifford family.