John Harrell Mason

John Harrell Mason
1924 ~ 2013
John Harrell Mason died on Saturday, January 5, 2013 at St. Luke's Hospital in Boise.
John was born in Guthrie, Oklahoma on March 19, 1924 and spent his formative years in Golden, Colorado graduating in 1942 from Golden High School where he was selected to the All-State Football Team. Drafted in his first semester at Colorado School of Mines, he served overseas during World War II where he participated in The Battle of the Bulge. Following the war, he returned to school graduating in 1949 and was commissioned a 2nd Lt. in the U.S. Army. He married Reta Gee, his high school sweetheart, August 24, 1947, a marriage that would last 65 years.
He retired as a full Colonel from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1976 having also served in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. His career was distinguished with Command Assignments at all levels concluding with his final assignment as the New England Division Engineer. His career took him and his family to a variety of assignments stateside as well as overseas. His many decorations include: The Distinguished Service Medal, The Legion of Merit, The Soldier's Medal, and three Bronze Stars.
Besides loving to play golf, he was a master woodworker for over 50 years. His passion was the restoration of antiques.
John is survived by his wife, Reta; his children: Tim, Mike, and Mary; his five grandchildren; and nine great grandchildren.
A gathering will be held at Summers Funeral Home, 1205 W. Bannock Street, Boise from 5-7 p.m. on Wednesday, January 9, 2013. Graveside service will be held on Thursday, January 10, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery.