Joseph E. Harriman

Joseph Edward Harriman, born June 11, 1944 in Pittsburgh, PA, to Joseph and Eileen Harriman, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2025 in Manassas, VA, at the age of 80 after a courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by his loving wife, Connie Warner Harriman; son Daniel Harriman of Manassas, VA; daughters, Melissa Martens (Chris) of Spotsylvania, VA, Kathy Morgan of Myakka, FL, and Kim Harriman of Sarasota, FL; sisters, Karen Harriman and Susan Eichman (Gregor); and his cousin, Mary Rodgers (Glenn). Joe’s children shared, “Our Dad has been our rock, our support system, our biggest cheerleader, and the best father we could ask for. We love him beyond words and can’t begin to imagine life without him.” He was a beloved grandfather to ten grandchildren—Jacquelyn, Nichole, Ryan, Kayla, Tyler, Danielle, Jordan, Hailey, Savannah, and Christina—and six great-grandchildren—Hannah, Cole, Jaxon, Zayn, Aubrey, and Shaun. They adored their “Gramps” and will forever cherish the memories they created together. His grandchildren shared these heartfelt farewells: "Enjoy your boat ride to heaven, Gramps!" "We couldn’t have picked a better grandfather even if we tried." "You have been our real-life superhero." "Rest easy." Jordan fondly recalls one of his Gramps’ wise sayings, which he still repeats at least once a week: “You can have anything you want in life, you just can’t have everything.” Joe is also survived by his devoted dachshunds—Sammie, Ruger, and Blush. Sammie and Joe had a special bond, and she was able to give him a final goodbye kiss in the hospital the day before he passed. Without a doubt, all three will help the family navigate life without him. Joe was predeceased by his parents, brother John Harriman, sister Patty Ward, and aunt M. Lorene Peters. Joe left college to serve honorably in the U.S. Army in Vietnam from 1965–1967. Perhaps that is where he developed his unshakable determination, stamina, and resilience—qualities that defined him in every aspect of life. After returning home, he had an extensive career in the building industry, spending many years at Manassas Lumber Corporation as their Contract Sales Manager. Those who knew Joe best knew that he never met a stranger. He had a way of endearing himself to everyone he met and was known for his long, drawn-out, sometimes silly jokes. He loved making people laugh, saying that if he could bring a smile to someone’s face—even just a quiet giggle—he’d be happy. He held true to that wish until the very end. An avid boater and fisherman, Joe loved being on the water. True to his sense of humor, he always joked, “I only own power boats—because I need my other hand to hold my beer.” Family and friends can still picture that twinkle in his eye and the sheepish grin hiding behind his mustache. Joe also loved watching the Washington Redskins and Washington Capitals with family and long-time friends. Joe was a fighter. He was the strongest, most determined, and most selfless man many had ever known. Joe’s will to live was nothing short of inspiring. As Melissa and Nichole so beautifully summed up, “We hope you are now drifting peacefully in your favorite boat, surrounded by calm waters” and “You loved us from our first breath to your last. We will love you forever.” Please join us for a casual gathering to share memories and celebrate Joe’s life. The Celebration of Life will be held in The Barrel Room at Old Bust Head Brewing Co. (7134 Farm Station Road, Warrenton, VA 20187) on March 6, 2025, from 4:00–7:00 PM. At 5:00 PM EST, we ask all who cannot be there to raise a glass in Joe’s honor. You can view the live stream at www.youtube.com/@JoeHarrimancelebration3-6-25 In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in honor of Joe to The Wounded Warrior Project, www.woundedwarriorproject.org/donate or the Lung Cancer Research Foundation, www.lungcancerresearchfoundation.org/get-involved/honor-a-memory/ or the Dachshund Club of America Health and Welfare Trust Fund to support dachshund health research initiatives, by check payable to DCA H&WTF and mail to: Carl Holder, Treasurer, Dachshund Club of America, Health & Welfare Trust Fund, 1130 Redoak Dr Lumberton, TX 77657, www.dachshundclubofamerica.org/dca-health-and-welfare-trust-fund/

Joseph E. Harriman

June 11, 1944 - February 16, 2025