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Memorial Keepers (1)
Riverside Funeral Home - Albuquerque
Harold Otis Closson
May 21st, 1929 - September 3rd, 2020
HAROLD OTIS CLOSSON, JR, 1929-2020 Harold Otis Closson, Jr., or Hal, died on Thursday, September 3rd, 2020, at Christus St. Vincent Hospital in Santa Fe, New Mexico, age 91 years. Hal was born May 21st, 1929, in Ashland, Kansas. He was the eldest son of Caroline B. and Dr. Harold O. Closson, Sr. Hal attended school in Kansas and San Francisco, and he graduated high school from Woodstock School in 1947 in Mussoorie, India. Hal graduated from the University of Maryland in 1954 with a BA in Music Education. Music was a central point in Hal's life; he sang throughout his life, played trumpet, and he met Mary Ann in music theory class at the University of Maryland. Hal and Mary Ann were married April 10th, 1954, in Washington, D.C. They lived in New Jersey and Houston while Hal worked at the YMCA. Hal, Mary Ann, and sons Gary and Alan also lived in Denver, Colorado, before Hal found his perfect vocation as a Student Union and Activities Director – first at Washington & Jefferson College (Washington PA) 1957-59, followed by Gettysburg College (Gettysburg PA) 1959-68 where daughter Lucy was born, the College of Wooster (Wooster OH) 1968-85, and Buena Vista College (Storm Lake IA) 1985-94. Hal was a mentor and advocate for college students, and he helped them develop and pursue their own passions, skills, and interests. At Buena Vista College, Hal instituted the ACES Program (Academic and Cultural Events Series), bringing a balanced assortment of classical arts programs to northwest Iowa. Upon retirement, Hal and Mary Ann moved to Cochiti Lake, New Mexico, where they had season tickets to the Santa Fe Opera for more than twenty years. Hal sang in the Santa Fe Symphony Chorus and enjoyed his experiences with that group. Wherever they lived, Hal grew plants and trees that still mark past residences all over the country. Hal also had many dogs throughout the course of his life, from Chief to Hotis to Bella, with many in between. To know Hal was to be introduced to his passions of music, landscapes, jewelry, visual art, travel, clothing, home improvement projects – he loved the larger world and was interested in what interested the people around him. Hal was compassionate, and he valued the connections he made all around the world. Hal was preceded in death by his parents, twin infant brother John, sister Ann Taylor, and sister-in-law Bonnie Closson. Hal is survived by his wife of 66 years, Mary Ann; children Gary (Jeanette), Alan (Cindy), and Lucy Morrissey (Dennis); grandchildren Sarah (Jeramy), Sofie (Eli), Alison, Sam (Bri), Hannah, James, and Hunter; four great-grandchildren; brother Jon (Diane); brothers-in-law Russ Kifer and Larry Taylor; nieces, nephews, and cousins; and, many other family and friends. The family wishes to thank friends and neighbors for their continued and loving support, as well as the Christus St. Vincent staff – in particular, Dr. John S. Caskey and the hospital hospice staff. A memorial for Hal is being planned. In lieu of flowers, you are welcome to make a donation in Hal's name to the Santa Fe Opera or another favorite arts organization. Arrangements entrusted to the caring professionals of: Riverside Funeral Home of Santa Fe 3232 Cerrillos Road (505) 395-9150
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Riverside Funeral Home - Albuquerque
Our Albuquerque funeral home has a beautiful, meaningful, and budget-friendly option for every family. At Riverside, our team helps you plan the perfect service because we know that the right memorial service honors your loved one’s life while also helping your family to begin the healing process. Our chapel offers comforting space for a funeral, memorial, or celebration of life, and we also have Certified Celebrants who help you create the perfect tribute. Your loved one never has to leave our care, and we can arrange for graveside or interment services at your chosen cemetery. Let our dedicated and bilingual (Spanish-speaking) staff guide you through this challenging time....
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