John Robert Harrison

John Robert Harrison, 82, of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, passed away on February 6, 2025, at 1:00 AM with his family by his side.
Born April 19, 1942, in Somerset, Pennsylvania, to Betty Jane (Holzman) and Frank Harrison Sr., John was a graduate of Westmont High School in Johnstown.
John built a distinguished career in sales, primarily with Davis Break Beam Corporation, where he rose to National Sales Director and later served as President and CEO. He found joy in traveling across the country, meeting with customers at rail yards from Baltimore, MD to Barstow, CA. He later continued his sales career with Portable Power Systems.
John spent many years in Travelers Rest and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, before returning to his hometown of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, where he lived for the last 35 years.
A passionate collector of train memorabilia, John amassed an impressive collection of HO and Lionel electric trains and locomotive bells. He was equally enthusiastic about restoring classic cars, particularly MGs, Land Rovers, and Land Cruisers from the 1960s and '70s. His pride and joy was his convertible MG TD, which he proudly displayed at car shows and drove around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
John's commitment to community service was exemplary. He served as a board member of the National Flag Foundation of Pittsburgh, spearheading initiatives to install flags in Somerset and Altoona, Pennsylvania. Most recently, he served on the boards of Lee Initiatives, Inc. and Laurel View Village. He was also a past president of Westwood Kiwanis Club of Johnstown and former chairperson of Special Olympics of Cambria-Somerset County.
He is survived by his faithful and loving partner of 30 years, Carole Kmett, of Johnstown; daughter Siobhan Brinegar (Mark) of Murrells Inlet, SC; son Sean Harrison (Karen) of Cary, NC; and his grandchildren: Brianne Adams, Gregory Adams, Mary Mac and Nicolas Hillmann, Jack Harrison, and Maggie Harrison. He is also survived by his older brother Frank Harrison (Diane) and younger sister Sue Staib, both of Johnstown; former wife Camille McCann (Brian), numerous nieces and nephews; and his beloved Golden Retriever, Missy. He was preceded in death by his first canine companion, Starbuck.
A man of faith, John maintained a belief in Christ and spirit of thankfulness. Known affectionately as "PaPa," John will be deeply missed for his joviality and quick wit.
A celebration of life will be held for John this spring. Details to follow.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the National Flag Foundation. (nationalflagfoundation.org)
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