August 16, 2008
I remember first meeting Nelson Harrison when I was in school at HHS. At first I thought he was one of those serious grumpy types, but soon learned that he smiled a lot, knew everyone by name, and always had a comforting sound in his voice. As time went by, I would see Nelson Harrison from time to time around town, and each and every time he always had that loving smile, always said Hello. It was obvious that he enjoyed life, family and friends. God didn't make many men like Nelson, and I'm proud to say that I had the pleasure of knowing him.
As long as I can remember back our families spent so much time together it felt as though we were family. I just wanted to say that even though life got in the way of us all getting together the way we did as kids I have never stopped loving all of you. You were so lucky to have been blessed with a wonderful father and friend. I could see that even as a child how much he loved everyone of us. I actually have a lot of memories of him and I will always cherish them in my heart. Thank you Nelson for being my friend too and for all those great smiles of yours. I forgot to tell him that the tiles that he put on my shower back in 1961 just started to fall off, pretty lousy job if you ask me, they should have held for at least 50 years!
August 15, 2008
There are very few people that you meet in your life that you know on four different levels. First there was Mr. Harrison, the teacher the man that demanded your respect and earned it. The fear of his legendary paddle was enough to always make me fly right in his class room or in the halls near it. Second, there was Coach Harrison the man that demanded you do your best and always giving the proper instruction to help you do so. Third, there was Nelly the man that always had a smile on his face and would laugh with you while you joked about his son and one of your best friends. Or you congratulated him on one of the grandchildren on how well they were doing at the little league park. Fourth was Nelson Harrison. The man that was first in line at my own fathers calling and if not first, one of the first five at my little brothers. The man who when I raced out to the sight of my sons accident and saw him being put on a stretcher with a neck brace and all the fears that go with it, assured me he was fine and it was precautionary.
They say a mans legacy is left in what he has left behind, I'm speaking to the boys that I know so well. Even though you are all rascals, and now to the girls as well, I can't think of a better legacy. To Jackie as I told you last night, he was a good coach and a good teacher. Even more he was a better man.
To Gary, my dear, dear freind. I know how rough it is. I know your devastated. If you need anything. Avon isn't as far away as we say. Love always, DAWG!
Coach Harrison...A man with big wings
When I was in grade school in the early 70's, I was a small kid with an attitude. Coach Harrison took me under his wing. He put me on a wrestling mat and adjusted my attitude. He taught me so much about right and wrong...he let me know real quick HE was right and I was wrong! He did it in a way that made me want to do the right thing. I never wanted to let him down.
He kept me on the mat and under his wing throughout my high school career. I stayed out of trouble, for the most part.
It amazes me to think how many kids, (now adults) he took under his wing through the years. Coach Harrison was a big man with a big heart and even bigger wings.
Coach you will forever be in our hearts.
Debra Chance
Gary: I'm deeply saddened to hear about the passing of your father. I want you to know that you and your family are in our prayers.
Scott Duff
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