Richard Harrison, 79, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by the family who meant everything to him. Richard spent over 35 years as a civil engineer, helping design bridges and roads across the region, several of which his grandchildren still point out proudly whenever the family drives past them. He approached his work with meticulous care, always believing that the things he built should outlast him — and they did.

Richard was a man of few words but deep thoughtfulness. Colleagues remembered him as the person in the room who listened twice as much as he spoke, and when he finally did offer an opinion, it was almost always the right one. He had a dry, understated sense of humor that caught people off guard, delivered so deadpan that it often took a beat before anyone realized he'd made a joke at all.

Outside of work, Richard was an avid woodworker, spending countless weekends in his garage building furniture for every child and grandchild who ever asked — and plenty who never did. He took particular pride in teaching his grandchildren how to use his tools safely, insisting that patience and precision mattered more than speed. He was also a devoted crossword puzzle enthusiast, completing the Sunday paper in ink, a habit he refused to apologize for.

Richard is survived by his wife of 52 years, two sons, a daughter, and eight grand children who adored him. He will be remembered for his quiet strength, his steady hands, and the calm, grounding presence he brought to every room he entered.