Mathew Vivial Harwich

Mathew Vivial Harwich, an optimistic person with a great sense of humor found his way home on Oct. 10, 2002 at 8:40 a.m. Quietly and peacefully, he slumbered away in his Upland home. He was 83. He was born June 12, 1919 in Redlands, the Son of Joseph and Minnie Harwich; Mathew was named for his Grandfather, Mathew Vivial, whose family were early settlers and prominent citrus growers. Mr. Harwich attended Hollywood High School and Los Angeles City College. In 1941, he entered the U.S. Army, and was wounded in action on Attu in the Aleutian Islands, he was a Staff Sergeant in the 7th Infantry Division. He was later awarded the Purple Heart. He continued to serve in the Pacific area until the end of WWII in 1945. Being a professional musician, he was a member of the Division's Band. From 1950-52, he also served in the Korean War. He was a dedicated insurance agent for Allstate for 45 years. His biography was published in Who's Who in California. He retired at the age of 75. Mathew, growing up in a musical family had a passion for harmony since his early teenage years. He played trombone in numerous Bands including the Glentones of Glendora, and the Music Masters in Upland. His longest gig was with the Pomona Concert Band for 25 magnificent musical years. His autobiography was completed and published this year by 1st Books Library, in which he vividly recalls his childhood, growing up in Hollywood, wartime services, and a complete accounting of his life-- Titled, "THE UNKNOWN." Mathew is survived by his wife, Marlene of 55 years, son, Greg (Lorna) son, Mark (Margie) and son, David Harwich, including TIGER the family's devoted cat. Mathew has 5 grandchildren: Philip, Keely, Kelsey, Mathew, (his musical counterpart), and Ashley Harwich, and you must include his two wonderful sisters, Yvonne DeRoule of Banning and Florene Dick of Upland. Predeceased are his younger brother Donald and sister Helen Newmark. Mathew's fondest desires are that families get togeth er, respect one another, share music, laughter and the bottom line-- To Get Along! Services pending.