Gena M Harrison

Gena Mae Harrison, 91, of Grand Junction, Colorado, passed away peacefully in her home on December 1st. She was surrounded by her loving family. Born on February 11, 1933 in Grand Junction, Gena was the daughter of Art and Minion Hadden. She married Tom Harrison, on October 22, 1950, and together they raised four children: Gary, Sheri, Dan, and Scott.

Gena was a devoted daughter, supportive sister, mindful mother, graceful grandmother, and good-hearted great-grandmother who always prioritized her family over herself. She was known for her warm heart, generous spirit, and love of cooking. Her home was always filled with the aroma of freshly baked cookies, homemade noodles, and many other requested dishes. Gena spent many hours working in her yard tending to her beautiful flowers and rose bushes. She loved reading her bible, being a member of the church choir, and contributing to the Sweet Adelines.

When Gena and Tom first married, they honeymooned on the Uncompahgre at UC Cow Camp. They loved that beautiful land. Shortly after their marriage, they lived in Unaweep Canyon's Fall Creek Ranch where they farmed hay during the year while spending their summers living at the UC Cow Camp punching cows. Gena cooked for everyone who lived and worked on the ranch. Tom's job subsequently moved them to Moab Utah, and before their first son was born, the family moved back to Gena's roots in Grand Junction, this being where her family stayed. Tom and Gena raised their family on a farm in Orchard Mesa. Gena would often reminisce about raising kids who would seek adventure, chaos, and fun. Listening to their childhood memories, it was clear that Gena made the simplest moments extraordinary.

Gena worked as a secretary at the courthouse and hostess of the Café Caravan in the evening. Gena quickly gained the love and respect of the Mesa County Community and quickly earned the title of Mesa County Treasurer and Public Trustee, positions Gena proudly and capably held for forty years. She cherished and enjoyed talking to and helping everyone she met. Gena led the Mesa County Republican Women for years and remained a life-long dedicated member of the Mesa County Republican Party.

Gena was preceded in death by her cherished husband, Tom Harrison of 48 years, beloved companion Joe Hicks, and oldest grandson Nels Thorson. Gena is survived by her sisters Kay Benson and Lois McAtlin; brother Larry Hadden; children Gary and April Harrison, Chuck and Sheri Leyden, Dan and Sandy Harrison, and Scott and Yvette Harrison; grandchildren Nate Thorson, Nicole Petersen, Jarrod Leyden, Christy Hornig, Daniel Harrison, Becky Harrison, Carrie Zentner, Ryan Harrison, Doug Harrison, Alex Harrison, Cody Wedel, Tyler Wedel, Emily Wedel, and Clay Wedel; and 24 great-grandchildren.

Gena's love will live in the hearts of her family and friends, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Gena will always be remembered for her hard work, kindness, incredible laugh, and unwavering love for those around her.