The adventure began for Henry and Katherine Draper on August 10, 1945, with the birth of their son, Henry Harrison Draper, Jr. As the third child of their four children, he grew up with his sisters, Donna Draper Ivy and Katherine Draper Richardson, along with his brother, Robert Draper. As a kid, he was never short of cousins to help find some mischief including Donald, Roger, Buck (Paul), and Jimmy Shelby. When they added to the group, his brother-in-law, Cletus Ivy, and lifelong friend, Glen Spraggins, laughter from their shenanigans made life fun.

As a teenager, Harrison knew what he wanted to do for a living. His love and respect of the outdoors combined with being in the woods lead him into the timber industry. His work started by hauling billets, but because of his ambitious drive and hard-work ethic, it progressed to owning and operating sawmills, building a large logging operation, and buying timber. He always said how blessed he was to see his dream of working in the woods become a reality.

In 1964, a mutual friend set up a blind date between Harrison and Heidi Kraetzig. After just a few dates, he became a regular at Herbert and Marianna Kraetzig's dinner table. On June 4, 1965, Harrison and Heidi began their married life together. Through the ups and downs of life, there was always the certainty of them being side by side. Harrison adored Heidi and often said she was the best helpmate, wife and friend a man could have. Their love was inspirational. Having children was always a desire for them, and they added three kids to the family:  Michael, Tina, and Penny. Later, he was blessed with his always son-in-law, Lucky Ross. He could not have loved his kids more and they adored him. He was an exceptional Daddy.

His legacy of love continued on as his family grew.

Michael and his wife, Mary, blessed him with Cody, who added his wife, Aileen, Harrison, Jaden, and Elle Draper.

Tina and her husband, Bill, added Jordan, Lauren, and Emily Cope.

Penny recently added Samantha Draper to round out his grandbabies.

His grandchildren were one of his greatest joys in life. He was their hero. He could fix anything and thought the best way to learn was to let the grandkids explore and try.  From the grandkids' perspective, time with Papaw was fun, adventurous, and cherished. Regardless if they were hunting, fishing, camping in the backyard, riding four wheelers, learning to drive in his jeep, exploring how things work or how to fix them when they don't, or simply sharing a bowl of his "best you ever tasted" popcorn, Papaw made life fun.

Early on, he instilled in them some of his finest traits that they carry with them today. He talked to them about the value of honesty, integrity, hard work, faith and love for your family and neighbors, but the most importantly, they watched Papaw live a life that showcased his values.

Our family will forever miss our rock, protector, hero, husband, Daddy, and Papaw. If you had the pleasure of knowing him, you know the great man we have lost and the shoes that cannot be filled. He was one of a kind and a true treasure to be around. He was highly respected and loved by so many. His hope was when his days were done and the last words were spoken about him, he would be remembered as a "good man."  We believe he greatly exceeded that goal.

We are heartbroken to report his adventures in his world ended on October 3. 2021, but we know we will see him again.  Harrison spoke of Heaven and told us not to worry about him when he is gone from this earth. He will be with Jesus. We take comfort in knowing that he is rejoicing in Heaven with his Lord and Savior along with all his loved ones he missed because they were already in God's presence.

If you would like to celebrate his life with his family, join us at his and Heidi's land on October 9, 2021 at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a cancer research organization.