Rowland Harrison

Rowland Edward Harrison — beloved husband, brother, uncle, and friend — passed away on Tuesday, October 14, 2025. He leaves behind a wife and a family who adored him, as well as a cherished collection of fly rods, flies, and fly tying supplies.

Rowland was born in Detroit, Michigan, and moved to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, in his early teens. He was a proud graduate of John Harris High School, Lincoln University, and Shippensburg University, where he earned a master’s degree in social work and a master’s degree in criminal justice.

He dedicated his career to serving others — working for Dauphin County Children & Youth, the Center for Juvenile Justice Training & Research at Shippensburg University, and the Harrisburg Area YMCA as Executive Director of the Camp Curtin Branch. Upon retirement, he fulfilled a lifelong dream by owning and operating The Yellow Breeches Fly Shop.

He is survived by his loving wife, his brother and sister, and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his mothers and father, as well as two sisters.

Rowland will be remembered for his warmth, his passion for life, and the deep love he had for his family, friends, and favorite pastimes. His many joys included spending time with family and friends, cheering for the Eagles and the Phillies, fly fishing, and traveling to destinations far and wide — especially Montana for fishing. In later years, he delighted in trips to the beach where he would ride his scooter up and down the boardwalk, taking in the sights, enjoying fresh seafood and talking with new people. He always found great joy simply sitting at the picnic table with friends by the Yellow Breeches or relaxing on his deck, sharing stories and laughter with family, friends, and their four legged companions.

All are welcome to join Rowland's family for an open house to celebrate his life on Monday, November 3, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Buhrig’s Gathering Place, 25 East Main Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055, (717) 766-3421 (next to Buhrig Funeral & Cremation). Over 100 parking spaces are available; just look for the “Buhrig” parking signs in all of the parking lots. Cremation was private.

Rowland’s family has entrusted his care to Buhrig Funeral & Cremation in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421. Offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle and sign his official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com.