Harrison Harlan Stankus

Harrison’s passing has left an unfillable void in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his adoring family: his mother Vanessa; father Harley; sister Vivian; and brother Gordon. His absence leaves a profound emptiness that cannot be filled.

From the moment he entered this world until the day he departed it far too soon, Harrison touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His bright smile could light up any room and his infectious laughter brought happiness to those around him.

Harrison had a deep love for his siblings, Vivian, and Gordon. Often, he would say “Come on babies, let’s go play!” They shared an unbreakable bond that will last forever. He loved playing “Chase” with them, causing everyone to laugh incredibly hard. He also loved joining them in their beds to wake them up, snuggle and share what he was watching on his tablet.

His Daddy bed was another source of comfort for Harrison — snuggling up close with Daddy every night made everything feel just right. Harrison and daddy would read books, watch Pizza Reviews and give scratchies until he was ready to go to sleep.

One of Harrison’s greatest passions was all things Disney — from Disney Parades to Disney Doorables — he loved it all! His eyes would light up at the sight of anything related to Disney characters or movies. It brought him so much happiness which radiated outwards to those around him. Listening to him sing all the Disney songs is a memory we will hold on to forever.

Animals held a special place in Harrison’s heart as well. Whether it was lining up plastic animals to make a parade, setting up animals on the kitchen counter so they could all eat chips with him, or visiting all the zoos we could. Animals were one of the first things that made Harrison verbal. Harrison knew almost every animal, before he could even communicate.

Uncle Bubba and Maysin were also two people that Harrison loved with all his heart. Harrison would count down the seconds to the next time he would see Bubba and Maysin. Although technically uncles, Bubba and Maysin were like big brothers to Harrison. Harrison adored just being in their company. Hanging out with them or wrestling with them, they were some of Harrison’s favorite people.

A celebration of life will be held in Minnesota on June 29, 2024, where friends and family can come together to honor Harrison’s memory by sharing stories about some of the things that meant most to him — Disney magic, animal adventures and pizza Lunchables galore! There will also be a petting zoo to enjoy and bring everyone closer to Harrison.

Though we are devastated by this loss, we find solace knowing that Harrison is a superhero. Harrison was able to donate his heart, liver and kidneys. Harrison’s bravery and courage was able to save four people’s lives. We are forever so proud of our boy.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Moyamoya Foundation to help further their research for this horrible disease.

Rest easy our precious little one — you have left an everlasting exceptional mark on our hearts that will never fade. Mom, Dad, Ninny and “Snoopy” love you to infinity and beyond.