Delbert Elmer Harrison

Delbert Elmer Harrison, 73, a longtime resident of the Vernonia Community died Monday evening, October 4, 2010 at the Gardens Enhanced Care center in Forest Grove.

A celebration of his life will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, October 10, 2010 at the Vernonia Community Church, 967 State Street in Vernonia.

Delbert was born on March 24, 1937 in Astoria, OR He was one of four children born to Leonard and Lila (Tulikainen) Harrison. He was raised on the family farm in Olney and attended Olney grade school. He later attended Astoria High School where he graduated with the Class of 1955.

Delbert enlisted in to the United States Marine Corp in 1957 and served his country for four years. He was honorably discharged in 1961 as a Corporal E5.

He was united in marriage to Sally Biggs on December 9, 1961. Following their marriage they followed Delbert career in logging until 1969 when they settled in and made their home in Vernonia.

Delbert was a tree faller/logger all of his life. He had worked in the woods for over 40 years and had been employed by several Jipo loggers in this area until retirement in 1992.

Following retirement Delbert was still sought after for his advice in falling trees but he did enjoy wood working and making music boxes. He also enjoyed his family and cooking for them on special occasions. He babysat his grandson, Jordan, and in his youth would enjoy square dancing. Delbert was an avid sports fan and would never miss one of his children's games.

He is preceded in death by his parents and three siblings.

Survivors include his wife Sally Harrison of the family home, two children and a daughter-in-law; Michael and Melanie San Angelo of Anchorage Alaska, Lila Harrison of Vernonia, a grandson; Jordan Harrison of Bothell, WA and many nieces and nephews.

The family suggests donations in Delbert's name to Alzheimer's Assoc.