Opal Pauline Harrison

Opal Pauline Harrison, 84, of Altoona, IA passed away peacefully on May 3, 2017 surrounded by her family. She was born on August 10, 1932 in Pleasantville, IA to Ruby G. (Trent) and Beryle E. Plummer. She graduated from East High School in 1951. Opie (as she was lovingly called) married the love of her life, David T. Harrison in December of 1950.

Opie loved spending time with her family and she loved to cook for her ever-growing family. Her home continued to be the family hub even after the passing of her husband in 2013. The anticipation of Opie’s legendary pot roast, fried chicken, green beans, cake and even her pancakes always guaranteed that her family (both near and far) would pack her house for breakfast, lunch and/or dinner.

Pauline was an active member of Hope Lutheran Church for over 40 years. She belonged to the altar committee, bread ministry, and enjoyed time with her special friends in the Ladies of Hope group that met monthly for dinner.

She is survived by her children, Tom (Lynne), Ron (Evelyn), Tim (Michelle) and Dave (Tami); her sisters, Mary Claire (Eddie) Briggs and Bernita Moats; her grandchildren, Kristin Harrison, Ben Harrison, Beth (Luke) Grosc, Jeremy Harrison, Justin (Lisa) Harrison, Kaleigh Harrison, Danielle Harrison (Billy Loera), and Sam Harrison; as well as great-grandchildren, Avery, Fischer, Addison, Sage, Cruz, Ally, Ruby, Willow, Jayda, Audri, Jett, and River. She also leaves behind many adored nieces and nephews, and her beloved dog, Spot.

Opal was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years; her parents; sisters, Dorothy Smith and Jane Briggs; and grandson, Zachary Harrison.

A celebration of her life will be held on Monday May 8, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at Hope Lutheran Church, 3857 E. 42nd Street in Des Moines, IA. A luncheon for friends and family will immediately follow the service at the church.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to Dr. Thomas Buroker, his associates, and the staff at Iowa Methodist Medical Center.

Memorials may be directed to the family. Condolences may be expressed at
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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