Earl Authorson Morrison

Born October 30, 1923, in Armada, he was the son of the late Dr. Earl A. and Zella Morrison (Downey). He graduated from Armada High School in 1941 and Wayne State University in 1948 with a master’s degree in education.

A proud veteran, Earl faithfully served his country with the United States Navy during World War II in Jacksonville, FL.

Earl lived in Ferndale and taught elementary science for the Detroit Public Schools. In 1966, he moved his family to Elk Rapids where he owned Bay Beach Cabins and co-owned and operated Morrison Lumber Company with partner and friend, Allen Anderson.

He was a longtime member of First Presbyterian Church of Elk Rapids and served on the boards of the Elk Rapids Schools and Traverse City State Bank. Earl participated in and worked hard to accomplish many community projects during his time as a Rotarian, as well as contributing to the ER Chamber of Commerce, ER Golf Club, and Three Lakes Association.

Earl enjoyed woodworking, golf, fishing, sports, and was an avid card player. He was a loyal fan of the Detroit Tigers.

He will be fondly remembered for his devotion to his family and his community.

Earl is survived by his children, John (Doris) Morrison of Brimley, Mary (Dave) Thayer of Rapid City, Marilyn (Chuck) Mailloux of Xenia, OH, step-daughter Martha (Stan) Scarborough of Elk Rapids, and step-son Chuck (Kathy) Cary of Chelan, WA. Earl is also survived by nine grandchildren, several step-grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Earl also leaves his brother and best friend, Dr. Robert (Mary Ellen) Morrison of Elk Rapids, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Earl was preceded in death by his wives, Louise Jean Morrison in 1991 and Jean Cary Morrison in 1997, as well as his sister, Mary Jean VanConant.

Friends may call at Covell Funeral Home in Elk Rapids on Friday, October 22 from 3 to 5 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. The funeral will be held at First Presbyterian Church in Elk Rapids on Saturday, October 23 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Sandra Murray performing the service. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery.

In remembrance of Earl, memorials may be directed to Hospice of Northern Michigan or the Elk Rapids Rotary Club. Envelopes may be obtained at the funeral home.