HARVEY DALE WIPP (1939 – 2021)
Surrounded by his family the Angels took a great husband, father and friend to many on January 29, 2021. At the age of 81 Harvey leaves behind his wife of 60 years Albina (nee Piva) and 4 children, Teresa (Grant), Brent (Donna), Lana (Bill) and Kurt (Jennifer). He also leaves behind a contingent of beautiful grandchildren (Aaron, Lisa, Amy, Ryan, Kayla, Bryce, Kyle, Andrea, Charlotte and Sonia) and great grandchildren (Lyriq, Brooklyn, Bridger, Moss, Beau, Maddison, Tessa, Jazelle, Jaxson, Berkeley, Hudson, and Remy); all of whom he loved more than can be expressed in words. Harvey is predeceased by his mother Esther, father Gunnard, his brothers Irving and Eldwin and leaves behind many extended family members whom he loved and cherished (including his older sister Fern, who is 97 years old).
Born in Comrey, Alberta Harvey moved to Vernon BC in 1943 and then to Kamloops 1956 where he graduated as class president and valedictorian from North Kamloops Secondary School. As young boys in the 1950’s Harvey and his brother Eldwin were avid skiers and outdoorsman. In fact, their father made touring skis for them in which they would often hike up their local mountain, Silver Star. His love for the outdoors was passed on to both his children and grandchildren. He stayed active hunting, fishing, wake surfing and snowmobiling until he took ill last November.
Harvey and Albina met in Kamloops in 1959 and a lifelong partnership began. Married in 1960, they moved to Vancouver where he began his business career working for Beneficial Finance. In 1969, Harvey left Beneficial Finance to become one of the first private mortgage lenders in Canada and founded what is now known as Alpine Credits. Over the years Harvey grew the business into one of the most successful private mortgage companies in Western Canada ensuring everyone knew its name. In addition to this, he started Ryan Mortgage Corporation in 1984, which is now a major corporation with activities spanning across Canada. Staying true to his family beliefs the company was named after his first grandchild.
Harvey and Albina had an extensive love for travel, often with the children and on their own. Their travels included far off places including Italy, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, France and of course Sweden (the origin of the Wipp Family). In addition to this they spent over 20 years as snow birds travelling with good friends in their motor home & during the past several years could be found pool side at their ocean residence in Mexico.
Harvey never forgot his roots and what was most important in life, friends and family. His generosity and love has touched many lives and the adventures he took people on will be memories that will last their lifetime. He will be dearly missed.
Due to Covid 19 a celebration of Harvey’s life will be postponed to a later date. However, a zoom funeral memorial will be held on February 15, 2021 at 3 PM. Should you wish to join, please send your email to the following address: HWservice@alpinecredits.ca
In lieu of flowers, the family would request a donation on behalf of Harvey Wipp to the BC Wildlife Federation.
G. Rossi
Brent & Kurt
I really don’t know what to say.
So I’ll try…
Your dad was a warrior. He was from a time none of us can appreciate except for men from that generation. (being politically correct all the time was a real challenge).
He was capable of everything and anything, only subject to the laws of nature, I’m thinking gravity and inertia, both it seemed he could defy at times.
Could you imagine if social media was around earlier in his life and what his Instagram feed would have been like? Kids and people today have no idea what life looks like….it looked like Harvey.
I admired his ethos and ethics as I am sure anyone who met him, never mind doing business with him, would surely agree.
I cannot remember anytime I was in his company he didn’t have a story or some other thing going on that he was able to turn into one (story). Both entertaining and informative, he left me scratching my head at times as to what he was still able to do at his age. Things I wouldn’t consider doing at mine either earlier or now. Life had meaning and living it to the fullest was something he was blessed with.
He was the only person I can remember calling my dad Angie and get away with it, an obvious example of what respect Angelo had for him. I think at times how sad Angelo wont ever hear his name called out like that ever again.
He always asked how I was doing, he really cared.
Just so you both know, I think truly your father was a great man.
He told me how proud he was of both of you, the last time I sat at dinner with him at Piva.
Admired by many, loved by all.
We (I) wish you all well and think of you during this difficult time, but Harvey is riding his f#$king snow mobile somewhere, probably kicking up a real mess at 100 miles per hour, hair on fire.
Love you guys.
J. Kissok
Brent and Kurt,
Just heard the news about Harvey today. I’m so sorry to hear.
Harvey was a great man and was loved by all who knew him.
I owe a lot to Harvey and the Wipp family so I just wanted to pass along my condolences to you guys and the family.
Devastating to hear.
Wishing you guys and the entire family my best during these difficult times.
Please pass along my condolences to Albina.
Take care,
Jordan
D. Blinko
Good morning my friends.
I am so sorry to hear about Harvey. I was very fond of him. He and I had many long talks in the office.
He will be missed.
I’m here in Mexico, not wanting to come home with all this uncertainty happening. I am well and happy.
Kurt, Brent, I consider both of you my friends. I feel your loss as I have been through this myself.
My heart is with you.
My sincere condolences my friends.
Please keep in touch.
Dorian.
D. Sawrey
We would like to express our most sincere condolences with the loss of Harvey. I have enjoyed dealing with Harvey or just having a drink or chat. I will miss him.
Warm regards
Dave and Debra
M. Allard
Hi Kurt,
I was very sad to hear about your Dad’s passing. I am sure that this is a very difficult time for you and family and wanted to let you know that I am sending all my positive energy to you and your family as you work through this.
Hope that you are doing OK and let me know if there is anything that I can do to help out in any way.
Wishing you well Kurt.
Mark
W. Nesmith
Kurt/Brent:
I only met him once and as a result, didn’t really know him, but what he started and what you two have nurtured and grown is a testament to a life lived fully and for the benefit of his family and many many others.
Alison and I are thinking tonight of you and the family.
Take care.
Wade
A. Rossi
Hi Brent and Kurt,
It was shocking news of Harvey passing, Rina and I are sending our condolences to Albina and all the family.
Life is passing by at time sooner than expected and we have to accept what life has given us.
You all are always in our thought and in our prayers
Angelo and Rina
P. Russel
Kurt
I just wanted to send you a note with my condolences for the loss of Harvey….it’s never easy losing a loved one, I can’t even imagine what you’re going through! I only met Harvey a few times, but every time I did he made the time to chat with me….often razing me or giving me a hard time about Radio rates. Lol
When we were all up in Whistler together for the Alpine retreat, Harvey made me feel right at home, and after a few drinks he is one of the funniest guys in the room
Rest in peace Harvey Wipp
J. Fedorak
Brent/Kurt,
Jessie and I are so sorry to hear that Harvey passed away. We loved to visit with them any chance we had. The last visit we had was when they came for Kopec’s funeral. We had breakfast together the morning after but never got a chance to visit again.
Yes, Harvey and us have had a wonderful association since he began the Alpine firm. Our business goes back to the Kamloops days in the 1980’s. It had a few bumps along the way but we got along just great and it was a benefit to both of us.
We will certainly miss him so please accept our condolences,
Maria MacMillan
To the entire Wipp family
My heart goes out to you all at this difficult time. Harvey was loved by all who knew him. He was the sunshine on a cloudy day. Always smiling and joyful
He will truly be missed
Brent and Paulette Holomis
Dearest Albina, Teresa, Brent, Lana, Kurt and the entire family,
We met your dad and hubby on a few occasions. You could tell how much he loved his family and Teresa, you’ve shared so many great stories about you and your dad’s adventures. His love and commitment to you all is an example of the great family he has. His legacy will live on, not only on the foundation of his businesses but more importantly the foundation and values he instilled in you all. Take heart in knowing how lucky you all were to have a papa like papa Harvey.
The Bombens
Uncle Harvey was always our favorite. He enjoyed life like no one else I know. His infectious approach to everything is what gave me a love for the outdoors. He has always been an inspirational leader who went through life treating everyone fairly. His humor and practical joke we’re always hilarious. Aissa’s first exposure to him was a beer filled fishing weekend trip to McKay Bay where she was indoctrinated to Harvey’s humor. She was destine today join the family after that. We will miss Harvey but know that he lived his life to the fullest and his positive impact on this world will continue long after he is gone. God sped to heaven Harvey and thank you for being a part of our lives.
G. White
Hi Brent: I am so sorry to hear about Harvey’s passing. Please pass my condolences on to Albina and the rest of the family. Times like this make us realize who are really important to us.
I apologize from the bottom of my heart for losing touch over the years. The years we and our families spent together were some of the best in my life. Heather, Jaime and Adam send
their best wishes. Big hugs to all.
B. Lepinski
Hey Brent, it’s Brent Lepinski. On behalf of my family I just wanted to express our deepest condolences. We are all saddened by the news of Harvey’s passing. He was a real beauty. We will miss seeing him at Shuswap trolling around in pursuit of tight lines or just popping over to chat. Our thoughts go out to you and your family during this difficult time. Take care Brent.
D. Rolleston
Dear Kurt and Brent the Rolleston’s are so sorry for your loss. I met Harvey a few times and always enjoyed his sense of humour and energy for life. I know he must be so proud of you both.
Please pass this on to Donna, Jen and your mom.
No need to reply, just want you to know we are thinking of you.
Love Dave, Jen and kids.
Soren Nielsen
The lake will not be the same without Harvey! I will really miss bantering with him! I am so sorry for your loss Brent!! He will be missed!
Leanne and Brent Martyniuk
Passing on our deepest condolences to you Brent, Donna and family. We met Harvey several times through Chris and George, and fondly remember our last encounter with him, at Sheridan Lake. He was such a character, always had time to talk, and always so full of life. Our thoughts are with you.
Brent and Leanne
Keith & Mei Westergaard
Our condolences to the entire family. Harvey was a hell of a man and a great friend! He will be sorely missed!
Adri and Willie
He sure will be missed. So happy to see this picture of your fishing trip on Ootsa lake. We’ll think of Harvey every time we are out there.
Soren Krak
Dear Albina and family
Hanne and I have only known you and Harvey for a couple of years, and feel totally cheated and very sad that Harvey left us so sudden. We hit it off from the get go, and had hoped for a long friendship with you both. Harvey would come over every morning for his” Starbucks” coffee. It was just a lousy Folger that I probably did not brew right, but he was easy to please. He never left without Hanne abusing him first, Harvey and Albina were new here in Mexico, and Harvey not knowing the local politics had to be convinced that Hanne was right . Sometimes he left his hearing aid at home, probably on purpose and that just made it that much more interesting. I said to Hanne more than once, you have to back off a bit, but no way, she was terminal with cancer, and if convincing Harvey was the last thing she did on this earth, so be it. i kind of think he liked the abuse, because he kept coming back. As you know, Hanne has since past, and you don’t know how much I miss having my morning coffee with them both. life is not fair.
My sincere condolences to your large family, and a big hug to you and Lana.
Soren
Maureen Kerber
For as long as I can remember, Uncle Harvey was in my life. The fun uncle, so full of life and always up for an adventure. At the age of five, it was amazing to me that a grown man could stand on his hands and walk around the yard! Little did I know then that he would never cease to amaze! This guy had no slow button and he inspired me to always embrace life and be positive no matter what came my way. He was so full of the joy of living and always so kind and caring. So many “men’s men” have little regard for their families but not Harvey. He always put his family first. I knew that I could count on Harvey and Albina. He was at every celebration and family gathering. Handing out bottles of champagne in the church parking lot after my sister’s wedding, the calm one on the golf course with my Dad and brothers, dancing at my wedding, countless dinners of his perfectly grilled salmon, doing the chicken dance on my parent’s 50the wedding anniversary, a comforting presence at the funerals of both of my parents, a big bear hug whenever we got together, holding my hand and telling me he loved me the week before he left us. His love spilled over and touched everyone who knew him. That love is the comfort that eases the pain of losing him. I will miss him like crazy!
Maureen Kerber
Doing the chicken dance in Leavenworth Washington
Maureen Kerber
My Mom’s 70th birthday party
Maureen Kerber
Playing golf with Dad & Uncle Albert
S. Shaw
Good morning Albina: Thinking of you
I saw Harvey beautiful tribute in the paper this weekend and his picture made me smile as I could hear is laugh, the twinkle in eye, I remember the fun we had being with you all during our time together, in our younger year. He always made you feel like You mattered and he was glad you were there. He was the fun dad! I missed that in the later years, but that held a special spot within me about Harvey. You share that feeling for me as well.
He flew the plane over Whistler to lay Russel to rest, which is something I will never forget. When I saw his picture, I know his face and the humour behind it. His kindness and I guess that reflects to his roots that his obituary talks about. He had that special something and I’m glad I got to share that for the time I did.
Give yourself time to heal, he was a big presents to say goodbye to. Your a strong woman, right now you may it feel that, but you will find your feet. I wanted you to know I’m thinking of you, please call if you ever need to talk, as I do miss our conversation.
Take care of you, be kind to yourself, take time.
Doug ,Grace Cowen and family
Dear Albina , Teresa (Grant) Brent (Donna ) Lana (Bill) Kurt (Jennifer ) Bryce (Evan) Kyle (Sara) and family .
I wanted to take this opportunity to let you know you are in our thoughts and prays and to thank you for the privilege of sharing Harvey with me and my family .
Suffice to say the stories we shared on our hunts, fishing and camping adventures are too numerous and space too limited to document here . I would be remiss however if I didn’t say how much I admired Harveys’ love for the outdoors and his prowess as a hunter and fisherman .
( Oops sorry Harvey I should have said Fisher and would have been scolded for not being politicly correct !)
Tight Lines always,
You will be missed my friend
Chris and George
Albina and family.
Harv and us were best friends. We knew that Harv loved us because he gave us nicknames. He called Chris, “kiddo”, as in, “Hey kiddo look at those guys poaching pheasants in Brent’s backyard.” Harv called me “asshole” as in, “give it some gas asshole!”. Sometime he called me “Ya, asshole”, as in “not that much gas ya asshole!” Just the other day I was telling Harv that I had my big motorcycle out for a winter ride and folks were stopping on the sidewalk to watch me go by. Harv said, “Ya asshole, they’d only stop to look at you if Chris was on the back.” Joking aside, Harv was a force of nature with a heart of gold. Harv loved his family and friends more than his toys and he really loved his toys. We count ourselves lucky to have been able to share a little bit of his life with him. Going to miss Harv a lot. With absolute sympathy, Chris and George
Grant Docksteader
Hey, if you want to get to heaven you gotta raise a little hell. And I know a guy who new just how to do that. Harvey Wipp, one of nicest men I have ever met, and that’s not just because I am his son in law. Harv is the type of guy on the go and willing to take you with him and teach me whatever activity he happens to be doing. not letting any grass grow under his feet. Nothing held Harvey back, not even trees or stumps while sledding in the alpine, hunting in minus 30 degree weather in no mans land, fishing out in large swells with me leaning over the rail,or taking him for a wake surf at 80 years old.
Even Harv’s dancing skills have been perfected, how many people can say at any age they have danced on loud speakers in a night club into the early hours of the morning. I have known Harvey since 1992 and truly believe he has been a rock for his family and friends, always there for them and offering to help out in any way. When I think of Harvey the words superman comes to me because both of them fit him to a tee. I will be forever gratefull for having known him, love you Harv.
Vicki Harrison
When my Mom passed away I thought i could never fill the void . Mom , like Harvey was made of all the strength and good that a person can aspire to be .
The nobility and dignity of such fine characters is palpable and synonymous with their name .
I value my time that we had getting to knowing Harvey and i am forever grateful . We will miss Harvey very much . We are here for you and your family during this difficult time .
‘grief is like an ocean; it comes on waves ebbing and flowing. Sometimes the water is calm, and sometimes it is overwhelming. All we can do is learn to swim. ‘
Vicki Harrison
Karen & Ed
Dear Mrs. Wipp,
Brent, Kurt, Lana, Teresa,
We are so sorry about your Dad. Your Dad was the best. He won’t be forgotten.Too many memories.
We hope to see you all in person, for a “Real Hug”. This “new Normal” has it challenges.:(
When we can burst our bubbles.. We will burst them and toast your Dad..always. Ed and I live by the motto LIN..Life is now.. and your Dad..did just that! He knew how to love, live and have fun doing it. : and raised a beautiful family. Just the best!
Love you all,
Karen, Ed and Travis Repka.. always a Kopec tho. 🙂
Kelley Cook
Mrs. Wipp, Teresa, Brent, Lana, Kurt and families,
So saddened to hear of Mr. Wipp’s passing…he was so larger than life. So many good times with your family… your Dad always making them crazy & fun! I was going through Mom’s albums and found these photos of our Mexican trip in 1975…do you remember what a blast it was? I wanted to share some of them in hopes that they will bring some smiles during such sadness and happy memories of a life well lived and loved.
Big long hugs, Kelley Kopec & Vic Sagorski
Karen Kopec
Awesome memories. thanks for sharing sis
Sharon Skinner
Dear Albina,Teresa,Brent,Lana,Kurt& Families
With holding back tears!
We are deeply sorry for the loss of Harvey!
Harvey was a very good man.Always fun to be with! A friend of many years!
I owe a lot to Harvey ,Albina and family for assisting me through one of the most extremely difficult times in my life ,I don’t know what I could of done without them .
Harvey and Albina flew in their plane immediately to Vernon to be with me when hearing the death of my son Curtis .
They were my rock , Thankful forever!
Rest in piece my friend ! Until we meet again Love Sharon ,Bob & Sharlene
Janice Nairn
Dear Albina and family
We are so sorry for your loss. We both enjoyed visiting with the both of you and Bob and Harvey sharing stories. Harvey was a kind and entertaining with lots of great stories to share. He will be missed.
Shelly Piva
We were so sorry to hear about Uncle Harvey. We can’t imagine the loss you are all feeling and send big hugs and healing thoughts. Uncle Harvey certainly lived his life to the fullest and enjoyed every minute of it.
I will get Albert and Marie set up tomorrow and will probably have to start their zoom for them on Monday. Lol
Alysha and Brittany are coming to our place on Monday and will watch with us. (Britt is an RN and sometimes works on the Covid unit so she stays away from the Grandparents).
Our hearts are with you all,
Shelley
Jamie Newton
Harvey was a powerful figure to me through all of my life. Whenever I saw him, Harvey was always smiling and joking around and knew how to make you feel comfortable and included. He had a zest for life like no one else I know and put people half his age to shame with his limitless energy and antics. Harvey made you appreciate life and what it has to offer. I will miss you tons Harvey. RIP <3 My condolences and huge hugs to all the family….miss you all!
Denise Pallesen
Dear Auntie Albina, Teresa, Brent, Lana , Kurt and families:
I was broken hearted upon hearing of Uncle Harvey’s passing. Throughout our family’s life, Uncle Harvey was always larger than life, with a ready smile, words of wisdom, a teasing moment or just a hug. At one time or another we have all been on a tube behind a boat with Uncle Harvey laughing at the wheel, making us wonder if we would get back to the dock alive…. or flying in his plane over the Rockies. He touched so many people in many ways and it didn’t matter if you were new to his group or family gathering, he made you feel so welcome.
Our love, thoughts and prayers to Auntie Albina, Teresa, Brent, Lana, Kurt and families.
Love David, Audrey, Denise, Dawn, Della, Wayne, Calvin, Debbie, Candy and families.♥️🙏🏼
Bill and Cathy
Dear Wipp Family:
When we reflect on our time spent with Harvey what stands out for us was his “Big Presence”. He seemed to be the magnetic energy in every room. He was kind and made you feel comfortable.
We will remember him for his amazing adventure stories, his free spirit and his strong love for family. Please know we are thinking of you all during this very difficult time.
Love, The Reichelt Family
Helanie and Anton
Dear Albina
We have known Harvey for the shortest of moments which left a Live Long Impression on both my husband and I ….. an Everlasting reminder of a Great Man, Friend, Father and Companion……….for a short time we had the privilege to spend time with him, he always made time to get to know you and always shown interest in everything you had to say about yourself, our country and everything else that might enter into the conversation. It was nice watching him show interest in the smallest of things, which form part of our daily lives and way of living in South-Africa.
He will be dearly missed.
Sending love and hugs.
Helanie and Anton
Jason Schoen
Dear Wipp Family,
My heart is broken over the passing of Harvey; I loved him so very much. There are so many ways to describe what a wonderful person Harvey was. Words such as leader, entrepreneur, warrior, father, grandfather, husband, friend and legend are only a few was to describe this amazing individual. Harvey was always so humble. I have known Harvey close to 25 years and he was much more than my friend; he was my family, like a dad or grandfather to me. Harvey hired me as a kid, trained me and opened his heart and home to me. Harvey and Albina both stood by my side through some difficult times. I have also had the pleasure of working closely with Cal, Brent, Donna and Kurt over the years and came to know many members of the Wipp family and friends closely as a result of my connection with Harvey. There was a time I would eat dinner with Harvey and Albina 2 or 3 times per week and of course will miss Harvey’s famous liver feeds after he came back from hunting. Children would instantly gravitate to Harvey; not too long ago I recall my son clinging to Harvey’s back as he gave him a horsey ride upstairs and even gave him a bath! There is nobody like Harvey; there never will be. I am just honored to have known this beautiful person. Even with large gaps between our visits we would always pick up where we left off and enjoyed great conversation together. If I amount a fraction of the person Harvey was my life will be a success. I will miss you my friend; until I see you again in heaven.
Please accept our sincerest heartfelt condolences.
Love Jason Schoen & family.
Chad Mitchell
Dear Albina, Brent , Kurt and family,
Harv was such a good friend and for me was always there to support me in any time of need. Simply put the best of the best.
Harv and I had a lot of fun together whenever that happened –either at work — fishing or snowmobiling. I did my best to try and play practical jokes on him but he always seemed to be able to ” catch -me – out ” before the axe would fall. Lots of memories — will miss him.
With love,
Chad Mitchell
John and Linda Bomben
What can we say about my uncle Harvey. He was such a fun man to be around. Whenever i knew i would have the pleasure of being around the Wipp family going back as far as my memories go, it was always with excitement and joy. I knew no better time would be had anywhere. From the bear hugs to the late in the evening conversation, the room was always filled with love. He lived life to the fullest, always had a great story and was always with laughter. We will miss Harvey more than words can express and the world is a little sadder with him not in it. His memory will live on long after we are all gone. I will look forward to having another bear hug and a glass of Crown with Harvey some day. My heart goes out to you auntie Albina and your entire family. God bless you all.
Love, John and Linda
John Droog
My Friend Harvey:
To tell about Harvey makes a very long list,
But I will give it a try so you will get the gist.
Of a man who lived life to the very end,
and never woried what was around the bend.
The grass did not grow under Harvey’s feet,
always looking for new people to meet.
He travelled a lot in his castle on wheels,
Always looking for interesting new deals.
When hunting or fishing he was never at rest,
On the lookout for zones that might be the best.
If the fish did not bite in his estimation,
He was soon on the road to a new destination.
Whether in business or pleasure day after day,
He gave it his best and did it his way.
Patience was one thing he had little time for,
He accomplished a lot but sought to do more.
He gave us a life full of friendship and smiles,
For us to remember as we travel our miles.
Though his laughter and smiles are no longer here,
He will be remembered year after year.
John
Karen
this is beautiful..Mr. Wipp lived life to the fullest..and had many friends along the way..great friends.. good people.. Karen Kopec Repka
Carol and Pat Cooney
That zoom service was a great tribute to Harvey. The many stories and the saga of his amazing life were funny, touching and inspiring. Thank you.
Zach olsen
Harvey was like a best friend to me Evan though I am only 23 I’m very grateful I was able to meet Harvey and his family he will never be forgotten and always hold a special place in my heart
Jessie and James Fedorak
That was a wonderful tribute to your dad. |We really wondered how he had time to work with all the activities that he did. We so much enjoyed visiting with him, as he was always very interesting to converse with. I was wondering if he had a list of those fishing lakes that had all those fish, very skillful fisherman.
We will miss him. Jessie and James
Adri and Willie
Dearest Albina, family and everyone who was blessed to call this great man their friend.
So many words come to mind thinking about how to describe Harvey. He was one of the most adventurous, spirited, kind and loving people we have ever met. He never missed a beat and lived life to the fullest. As busy as he was juggling various business ventures, he always had time for a phone call or visit.
He made such an effort to be present and engaged in everything. Harvey was the perfect host. In 2016 he was stuck in a house with 6 women working on wedding preparations for Alice and Ryan’s wedding, Harvey had no issues helping with whatever we needed him for. It was funny watching him untangle a string of tiny lights, this tested his patience for sure. I think he preferred serving wine and snacks.
I can write a novel about the stories, fun and exciting time I was exposed to when I lived with them for about 3 months. Harvey was an early bird and my day always started off with a coffee and an update on the daily news/politics before I left for work. I will always treasure those memories and it brings me great sadness to think visiting and talking to Harvey is no longer an option.
Harvey was a true gentleman. I will always remember Albina’s radiant smile when he took a day out of his hunting trip in 2018 to come and surprise her on her birthday. He drove over 8 hours in one day, just to have lunch with everyone. Last year when we were in Vernon for Albina’s 80th birthday, he made some arrangements to be dropped off early in the morning, flowers in hand, to make sure he was there for this special day.
In 2018 we were fortunate to take these lovely folks on a trip to Kenya and South Africa for 5 weeks. Every day was a new adventure and everyone that met Harvey was touched by his kind and loving nature. Only Harvey would think to go for a jog in a National Park, filled with wild animals, to get a closeup picture of something he saw. It looked like our guide was going to have an anxiety attack and he sprinted after Harvey like his life depended on it. Safely back in the Safari truck, we had to carefully explain the rules again and point to the many signs that say “do not leave your vehicle under any circumstance” – along with all the possible consequences. Many will agree that Harvey put a whole new meaning to the word stubborn. We learnt very quickly not to use words like, “you are not allowed to, or shouldn’t do something” around him.
A piece of Harvey stayed behind in Africa, in the hearts and minds of everyone he met. We are so very blessed to have had the opportunity to introduce Harvey and Albina to all our family and friends, while showing them our birth country and the beauty Africa has to offer. It was a trip of a lifetime and it warmed our hearts to know how much they both appreciated the experience.
We are truly fortunate that Maddison and Berkeley had Harvey as their Great Grandfather. They loved him dearly and the way their little faces lit up any time they heard he was coming for a visit, was priceless. Harvey appreciated every small gesture of kindness and returned it two-fold with unconditional love. Life will never be the same without Harvey, but we all have archives of memories to treasure.
Famous saying – Live Life like there is no tomorrow – I say live life like Harvey. True fortune is measured by the people whose lives you touch, and the impact you have on making them happy. Harvey did that with everyone he knew. We are forever grateful for having this amazing man as part of our lives.
Our forever love – Adri, Willie and family.