Michael Joseph Harrison (Mike), 76, peacefully departed this earth on October 30, 2024, at home in High Ridge, MO after complications from a stroke.
Born on October 2, 1948, Mike was known for his quick wit and the deep love he held for his family, friends, and pets.
Mike’s early life was marked by his graduation from O’Fallon Technical High School in 1967. Shortly thereafter, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served as a Specialist from 1969 to 1971. During his service, he was stationed at Fort Bragg, NC, working as an Offset Pressman and was awarded the National Service Defense Medal for his contributions.
Mike built a successful career in the printing industry. Starting at only 16 years old, he began as a Printing Press Operator and was eventually promoted to Manager at Fiedler Printing. At age 40, he moved to Color Art, and it was here that he met his beloved wife, Linda, with whom he shared 22 years of marriage.
Mike was a devoted reader and a familiar face at the local library. His love for animals was profound, and he treasured every moment spent with his wife, Linda, children, grandchildren
and their beloved dog, Winnie. Even through the challenges of illness, Mike never lost his ability to bring joy to those around him with his humorous remarks and quick one-liners.
Mike is survived by his wife, Linda; his children, Amy (Christopher) Jobst, Andrew (Crystal) Harrison, Daniel (Danielle) Harrison, and Mark Harrison; his step-children, Jeff (Maria) Baumgartner, Julie (Mike) Minor, Jill (Chad) Brady, and Karen (Bob) Ladd. Mike was a proud grandfather to his 12 grandchildren, 12 step-grandkids, and 3 step great-grandkids.
He is also survived by his siblings, Kathleen (Ed) Gapsch, and Joseph (Jan) Harrison, his nieces and nephews, as well as the rest of his family and friends, including the mother of his children,
Victoria Harrison, to whom he was married for 31 years. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Thelma Harrison, and also his nephew, Christopher Parks.
A memorial service will be held at Michel Funeral Home 5930 Southwest Avenue, St. Louis MO 63139 on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, with visitation from 10 am to 12 pm, followed by a short service.
Burial will take place at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery at 1:30 pm.
In lieu of flowers, charitable donations may be made in Mike’s honor to the Humane Society of Missouri. Mike’s legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will be remembered by all who knew him.
ARRANGEMENTS UNDER THE DIRECTION OF MICHEL FUNERAL HOME
Rest Peacefully Mike 🙏🏻🥴🙏🏻🙏🏻
You are surely going to be missed. Your quick wit and silly jokes sent in text messages won’t be forgotten and will be talked about often. Thank you for all the smiles and laughter over the years. You were one of a kind. So happy to have gotten to meet all of your kids. It’s been a wonderful blessing!!!
I will forever miss your jokes, witty personality and love for your dogs. You will forever be missed by all who had the opportunity to know you. My mom will always love and miss you. We thank you for taking such great care of her and loving her as you had. Love Always and Forever
So sorry for your loss of your father.
Prayers for all of you.
Linda, Amy, Andrew, Daniel, Mark, Kathy, and Joe- We are very saddened at Mike’s passing. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you all and the extended family. I have many pleasant memories of times when we were kids growing up, some of the happiest times of my life. May your many pleasant memories of Mike comfort and sustain you during this difficult time. Sending our love, from your Texas cousins! Larry and Patti Harrison