Ralph L. Harrison

Ralph L. Harrison, 87, of Harrison Lane, Dents Run, died Wednesday, July 22, 2015 at home after a short illness. He was born Jan. 13, 1928 in Dents Run, son of the late William and Frances (Stencoski) Harrison. He was married to Patricia (Gearhart) and she survives 

He was a Navy Seabee veteran of the Pacific Theater of WWII. He was a Forest Ranger for the Elk State Forest, Hicks Run Ranger Division for more than 35 years. He was the author of two books on the Pennsylvania elk, a book on the history of Elk County and a book on the history of the Quehanna Wild area. He received numerous awards, including the PA Parks and Forestry Foundation Presidents Award in 2014 for his education and conservation efforts, Joseph T. Rothrock Conservationist of the Year award from the PA Forestry Association in 2012 and the PA Game Commission Conservationist Lifetime Achievement Award for his efforts in the preservation of the Pennsylvania elk. He lived all his life in Dents Run. 

In addition to his wife, Patricia (Gearhart) Harrison of Dents Run, he is survived by three children, Harry "Chip" (Maxine) Harrison of Galeton, 

Susan Manners of Anita,

 Rita Harrison of Punxsutawney;

 one grandson, Charles (Miriah) Manners; 

one great-granddaughter, Katherine Manners;

 one sister, Shirley (James) Burke of Weedville; and several nieces and nephews. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Harry and James Harrison; and one sister, Eva Overturf. 

Private services for Ralph L. Harrison will be held by the family. 

Interment will be in Hicks Run Cemetery. There will be no visitation.

 The family suggests memorials to the PA Parks and Forestry Foundation, 1845 Market St., Suite 202, Camp Hill, Pa. 17011

(paparksandforests.org).