Roger L. Harrison's Obituary
HARRISON, Roger L., age 83, of Lebanon, Ohio, passed away Friday, June 2, 2023.
How do you sum up a man’s life in a paragraph?
Roger was born and raised in England during WWII on December 10, 1939, with no indoor bathroom, food was rationed, soldiers took fencing for ammunition, and there were sirens and bunkers for shelter and bombings. His experience of deprivation from the war was felt most when his mum, Anne, gave him ice cream for a photo and then took it away before he could eat it. That would remain a continued laughing memory between them.
Roger was born a chemist and practiced the craft from the moment he messed up his mum’s oven with his first experiment. Roger’s 60 years as a professional chemist would eventually lead him to America, where he met his loving wife of 25 years, Bonnie, and raised his three children.
As a youth, Roger traveled the UK on his bike, staying in hostels and working during his stay. As an adult, his work as a chemist carried him across the world, including Europe, Asia, and South America. When he wasn’t traveling, Roger enjoyed racquetball, Alabama football, Sheffield United, and his daily trips to the grocery store.
Roger will be remembered as a loving husband, son, and father. A proper English gentleman, he was a very modest, kind, and quiet man. Intelligent, respected, and with a wonderful sense of humor.
He will be missed for his dry wit, profound stories, and his roguish charm. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Anne Harrison. He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Bonnie; two sons, Ian and Alan Harrison; two daughters, Louise Cresse and Katrina Magnusson; granddaughter, Ariel; great-granddaughter, Scarlett; and two cousins, Christine Plant and Sue Mallender.
This is not the end. His life and legacy will continue through his wife and children and all the memories and contributions to research he has left. He was loved.
A memorial service will be held at 11 AM Friday, July 28, 2023, at Stubbs-Conner Funeral Home in Waynesville. If desired, contributions may be made to Lewy Body Dementia Association, 912 Killian Hill Rd. SW, Lilburn, GA 30047. Condolences at www.stubbsconner.com.
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