J. Michael Harrison

Harrison, J. Michael MELROSE J. Michael Harrison, known as Mike to all, died peacefully in his sleep early Sunday, September 20, 2015. He was born with his twin sister Kay on July 25, 1938, to Eleanor and Thomas J. Harrison of Watervliet. He would graduate from CBA in 1956 and then attend Siena College for three years before transferring to SUNY Farmingdale from where he received his degree. While there Mike met Mary, his wife of nearly 53 years and together they raised seven children, Kate (Mark) Gonnelly, Michael J. (Michelle) Harrison, Patricia (David) Stampfli, Brian Harrison, Matthew Harrison, Mark (Linda)Harrison and Christopher (Kate) Harrison. Mike served as a Marine Reservist from 1961 to 1968, of which he was always proud. He worked briefly as a chemist at Albany Felt in Menands before following his true calling as both a fireman and nurseryman. Mike served the Troy Fire Department faithfully for nearly 25 years, as a Union president in the early 1970's and then rising through the ranks to the position of Battalion chief before eventually retiring in 1994. He founded Harrison's Nursery and Landscape Service in Melrose for over 45 years until its closing. Mike was a tremendous man and impacted all with whom he came in contact. He was a hard working, stubborn and gritty but always with deepest compassion, love and fidelity. Mike was honest, generous, ethical and at times downright silly. He had a deep faith and was actively involved with Prison Ministry until his death. Mike is also survived by his brother, Thomas Harrison (Phillis); sisters, Eleanor Miter (Frank), Kay Fortin (late Donald) and Mary Ann Styczynski (Jack). In addition Mike leaves behind 10 grandchildren and 15 nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, September 24, 2015, at 10 a.m., from Transfiguration Church (formerly St. Bonaventures) in Spiegletown' where the Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Friends are invited and may call at the church on Wednesday from 3 to 7 p.m. Interment will be in St. John's Cemetery in Schaghticoke. If desired contributions may be made to Residents Encounter Christ, P.O. Box 14474, Albany, NY 12212 or, The Michael J. Harrison Medical Fund, 1105 Stone Gate Drive, Rensselaer, NY 12144 or to the charity of your choice.