William Lee Harrison

William (Bill) Lee Harrison, 90, died peacefully of natural causes on August 3, 2017, at his home in Sun City West, AZ.Bill, the son of Harry and Mamie Harrison, was born in Chardon, OH, on February 17, 1927 on his family's farm, in the house in which he grew up. He grew up at the tail end of the depression, but even though money was tight, he had a wonderful childhood.Growing up, everyone in his family was musical. They would entertain themselves and the neighbors by playing music whenever they had the chance. Bill played the trumpet in high school as well as in several county bands.After high school Bill enlisted in the Navy during World War II. Upon discharge, he went to Fenn College on the GI Bill and received a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering with honors. He went to work for General Electric (GE) right out of college and worked for GE his entire career. During his career at GE, Bill traveled around the world to Japan, South America, Taiwan, Europe and Mexico.Bill met his wife Gloria Mullen while working in Philadelphia. After they were married, they moved back to Chardon, OH where they began their young family. From Chardon they moved to Roanoke VA, then Schenectady New York, then back to Roanoke. Bill was also a pilot; owning several small planes and flying with his family at every chance he could. He also loved to go camping with the family in their trailer. They would camp in the Blue Ridge Mountains, at the beach, and in the late 60's he drove the family across the country from Virginia to California and back over a four-week period, camping in several national parks.Bill retired in 1987, and in 1990 Bill and Gloria started spending half the year in Sun City West, AZ. They became permanent residents of Sun City West in 2000 where they lived together the rest of his life. Bill and Gloria loved to travel, and during retirement they would take multiple cruises every year. While living in Sun City West, Bill was very active in the community. He was president of the Engineers Club, Computer Club, and also very active in the United Methodist Church.Bill was pre-deceased by his mother and father, as well as his brothers Bob and Paul.He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years Gloria; daughter Dianne DiMeo and son-in-law Steve DiMeo of Utica NY; daughter Jann Harrison and son-in-law Howard Skillrud of San Antonio, TX; and son Mark Harrison and daughter-in-law Lisa Harrison of Fairfax Station, VA. Bill is also survived by seven grandchildren, Bob (and Tracy) DiMeo, Jonathan DiMeo, Allison (and Corey) Peters, Ross (and Ashley) Guerrero, Jared Guerrero, Evan Harrison, and Ella Harrison; and one great grandchild Raya Guerrero. He also leaves nephews and many dear friends from near and far. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Franklin Greene Memorial Fund, c/o Shepherd of the Hills United Methodist Church, 13658 W. Meeker Blvd., Sun City West, AZ 85375; or the charity of your choice.