Robert Carter Harrison of Provincetown died peacefully in his home, on Thursday, August 25, 2016. He was 91.
Born in Boston on December 31, 1924, Bob was the son of the late Walter Thacher Harrison and Alice Shaw Harrison. He grew up in Milton, graduated from Thayer Academy class of 1942, and went on to attend Harvard University. His studies at Harvard were interrupted in 1943, when he enlisted in the US Navy to serve his country during WWII. After his service, he worked as an inspector for Payne Elevator in Boston.
Bob soon met the late Harold Goodstein, who was his life partner for over 40 years. Together, they owned and operated the successful Hargood Associates Advertising Agency in Boston, and then they relocated to Provincetown in the early 70s. While running the ad agency, they purchased an old oceanfront hotel on Commercial Street. With hard work and determination, they created a much beloved inn, the Hargood House, and decorated the guest suites with treasured items found on their travels around the world. Guests would come year after year to stay in the peaceful oasis, surrounded by the sea and the most beautiful gardens. Many fondly remember the red tugboat anchored offshore where Bob, a consummate host, would entertain guests and friends.
Bob was an active member in many professional and community organizations. He served as Director of the Provincetown Chamber of Commerce for many years and worked to preserve the Pilgrim Monument. Bob will be best remembered as a patron of the arts, supporting local artists and making significant contributions to the Provincetown Art Association and Museum, where there is a wing dedicated to Bob and his partner Hal.
Bob loved to travel, meet new people, and explore the world. He visited many countries including, China, Vietnam, Egypt, Burma, and Thailand just to name a few. He loved to tell tales of his travels, and it was evident he immersed himself in getting to know the people and their culture. His nieces and nephews remember him as an attentive, fun loving uncle who took them to Paragon Park, and who was always present at holidays and special occasions. He never forgot a birthday and could be counted on for the most memorable and unusual gifts from his travels around the world.
He was greatly loved and will be missed dearly by his surviving brother James Harrison, Sr. and his wife Beverly Harrison of New London, NH along with nieces and nephews, Susan DiStasio, Teri Wilson, Jim Harrison, Jr., Robert Harrison, Michael Harrison, Jean Marie Harrison and their families as well as many friends and neighbors. He was predeceased by brothers Richard and William Harrison.
Memorial contributions may be made in Bob’s name to the Provincetown Art Association and Museum, 460 Commercial St, Provincetown, MA 02657 or to a charity of your choice.
Services will be announced at a later date.