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Bert J. Harrison died peacefully at his Albuquerque home during Memorial weekend on May 22, 2009. He was born in Rotan, Texas on September 16, 1920 to Cleveland and Elizabeth Harrison. While growing up during the Great Depression he picked cotton and became a high school football star. Bert then joined the Army prior to World War II, where he became an accomplished boxer winning 126 consecutive bouts. He earned the rank of master sergeant and battled the Japanese forces throughout the Pacific Theater in every invasion from New Guinea to Okinawa. He swam away from a sinking ship, parachuted from a shot up airplane and was wounded twice during other engagements and received two purple hearts. During his life, he accomplished twenty years of service to his country and was founder of the Valley Electric Company for over 50 years. Which he installed and maintained the electrical systems for the NM State Fair Grounds and Tingley Coliseum for 44 years. Loved and admired by many, "Grandpa Bert" had many unique experiences, farming, raising hogs, flying airplanes and fishing for King Salmon in Alaska as a partner in a commercial fishing boat. He was often found exploring the mountains of New Mexico on hunting and fishing trips. As a father and grandfather, he enjoyed taking his family on adventures throughout the country. Bert was preceded in death by his daughter Marsha Harrison. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Beverly Harrison, his son Randy Harrison, his daughters Cayla Cillessen and Sheila Harrison, four grand children Brian (Jean), Jeff (Cassie), Jennifer (Steve), Justin and eight great-grandchildren. Bert is also survived by his sisters Mildred Bingham and Betty Henson. Our country has lost a true patriot and one of the remaining few from "The Greatest Generation". He will be genuinely missed by his family and friends. Memorial Services will be held at the Farmington Elks Lodge on June 27, 2009 at 11:00 a.m., and Internment at the Santa Fe National Cemetery on June 29 at 11:00 a.m.
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