Leland George Harrison

Leland George "Lee" Harrison, 73, of Topeka, died November 18, 2012 at his home. He was born on January 13, 1939 in Ottawa, Kansas the son of George W. and Edith H. (Strobel) Harrison. Lee was a graduate of Washburn University where he studied Political Science. Lee and his wife Cathy and the entire family were active in running the family Dairy Queen business in North Topeka. He was instrumental in helping raise many north Topeka youth while they worked for the business. He was a member of the Church of the Assumption for over 50 years where he would light the incense for funerals. Lee enjoyed photography and taking movies and video of his children and of the children at the Assumption School. He loved listening to music and was active with his children?s music endeavors. He also enjoyed watching classic movies. Lee married Catherine "Cathy" Collard on April 27, 1968 at St. Joseph Catholic Church. She survives. He is also survived by his son, Joe Lee (Stacy) Harrison of Topeka, five daughters, Cassandra Ann "Cassy" (Ron) Bevitt of Meriden, Melissa Marie (Shannon) Colbern of Meriden, Jessica Lynn (Perry) Sorrell of Edna, Kansas, Laurie Harrison of Topeka, and Mary (Zac) Boatright of Alexandria, VA., a sister Mary Natchez of Topeka, a brother John Dale Harrison of Choctaw, OK., and sixteen grandchildren, Amanda, Holleigh, Clancie, James, Reid, Aubrie, Anna, Brock, Riley, Kevin, Elsie, Jack, John, Keegan, Cabrini and Ava. He was preceded in death by a son, John Matthew Harrison on October 16, 1986 and a brother Don Harrison. Lee will lie in state at Mother Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Church on Tuesday from 3:00 until 7:00 p.m. where a Knights of Columbus Rosary will be prayed at 3:00 p.m. and a Parish Rosary will be at 7:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. at Mother Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Church. Interment will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in Lee?s memory to Mary?s Choices or the Sisters of Charity Sandwich Ministry and sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, Kansas 66603. Online condolences and fond memories may be left at www.brennanmathenafh.com.