The Legacy of Harry Harada

Harry Mitsukazu Harada, Jr. (1941–2021) Harry Mitsukazu Harada, Jr., known to many as "Junior" or "JR," was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Born in Rocky Ford, Colorado, JR grew up on the Harada family farm, where he learned the values of hard work and community that would guide him throughout his life.

JR served proudly as a sansei (third generation) Japanese American, carrying on his family's traditions and maintaining deep connections with relatives across the country. After graduating from Rocky Ford High School in 1959, he pursued studies in chemistry at the University of Colorado, where he also met his future wife, Nancy Lee Enomoto. They were married on June 30, 1963, at the Tri-State Denver Buddhist Temple.

Professionally, JR dedicated much of his career to the Metro Wastewater Reclamation District, where he eventually served as the Director of Laboratory Services. He took great pride in his team and the work they accomplished together. After retiring in 2001, JR embraced a life full of adventure and joy. He was an avid skier, cyclist, motorcyclist, and fisherman, often embarking on long trips and documenting them with detailed emails to family and friends. He was a familiar face at Colorado sports events, from CU and Broncos football to Rockies and Avalanche games.

JR was also deeply committed to his community and cultural heritage, serving for many years on the Sakura Foundation to ensure that Sakura Square remained a meaningful space for future generations. Whether he was riding his motorcycle, fishing the Wind River in Wyoming, or enjoying a meal with friends, JR lived life with an infectious enthusiasm and a trademark "See ya!" that reflected his warm and generous spirit.

He is survived by his beloved family, including his daughter Stacey Harada and her husband Eric Pederson, daughter Keri Quye and her husband Dale, his granddaughter Keira, and many other nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will cherish his memory.