Obituary of Theodore LeRoy Harrison

Theodore "Ted" LeRoy Harrison

June 22, 1948 - February 22, 2023

Theodore “Ted” Harrison of Tucson passed away on Wednesday, February 22, 2023 at his home at the young age of 74. 

Ted was born in Minneapolis, MN on June 22, 1948 to Martin and Phyllis Harrison. He grew up in the Minneapolis area where he met the love of his life, Patricia Swenson. Ted and Pat married on October 21, 1967, and made their home in New Hope, MN where they raised their first two children, Raquel and Chad. At that time Ted was an ironworker, and worked on high rise buildings like the IDS Center in downtown Minneapolis (WITHOUT A SAFETY HARNESS!).

Eventually the Minnesota winters became unbearable, and in 1973 the family ventured south to Phoenix, AZ. Two years later they settled in Tucson, had two more children, Ryan and Chrysti, and began living the dream in the desert heat. Ted loved the sunshine and the water, and often vacationed with his wife and children around the beaches in California and lakes in Arizona. An avid outdoorsman, Ted was a scout leader, a softball coach, and loved being with his family outdoors, whether swimming in his pool, camping, fishing, skiing, and even scuba diving! Ted had an incredible sense of humor and an unmatched zest for life. He was a successful business owner and known all around Tucson for his charisma and friendly banter. 

Ted is survived by his wife Patricia Harrison, daughter Raquel (Kris) of Salado, TX, son Ryan (Penelope) of Tucson, daughter Chrysti (Candice) of Tucson, sister Karen (Dave) of Linden, brother Steve of Phoenix, mother Phyllis of Chandler, 4 grandchildren: Gabriel, Hanah, KC, and Carter, and 4 great-grandchildren: Natalie, Kaley, Rhett, and Rook.

To say that Ted touched the lives of everybody he met is an understatement. He will be so dearly missed. 

He was preceded in death by his father Martin Harrison; sister Kathy Harrison; brother Michael Harrison; and son Chad Harrison.

Pastor Robin Blumenthal will officiate Ted’s Celebration of Life on Saturday, April 15, 2023, 11 AM, at Pantano Christian Church in Tucson, AZ. A gathering of friends and family will be held at the Saddlehorn Saloon between 11 AM - 1 PM on Friday, April 14. All are welcome as we celebrate Ted’s life and legacy.

Flowers for the Celebration of Life can be sent to Pantano Christian Church. In lieu of flowers you can make a donation to Casa de los Ninos, a charity that Ted loved and supported.