Thomas L. "Tom" Harvey

Thomas “Tom” Harvey, Sr. left us on October 25, 2018 at the age of 83. He was born to William and Ruby Harvey in Hawkins, WI on March 11, 1935. Soon after, the family would move to Lake Nebagamon. He left home at age fourteen to work in a logging camp and upon his return he would get married, join the Army, and start a family. After his time in the Army was complete, he began logging and heavy equipment operating in Lake Nebagamon. With his children in tow he would pass on what he valued above all else—the importance of hard work.

His perseverance and fortitude would serve him well in his lifetime. He survived a life-changing accident in 1991 and would use that same determination as he grew older, never admitting defeat even as his mobility began to decline. He taught us all never to give up, that quitting was not an option, and that the love we have for each other is the greatest joy in life. We will never forget the affection in his voice, the way he would giggle as he tried to tell a joke, and his quiet love of the tall pines of Highland.  Our gentle giant, he was a man who had the purest and sweetest love for his children and grandchildren and an infectious smile that was larger than every doorway he walked through. He was a strong, tough man in his youth but as he aged he showed us how easy it was to be kindhearted and tender, instantly melting around laughing grandchildren or becoming emotional when meeting his newest great granddaughter. He was a proud man, and though his steps grew slower over time, his joy for life and family never lessened. He loved to hold our hands, tell us he loved us, spend time with friends, and was always willing to let a pretty lady buy him a drink.

He was preceded in death by his parents William and Ruby Harvey, a brother Sonny, sisters Alice and Ruth, a beloved son, Michael, a cherished grandson Thomas Harvey III, and his best friend Wally Lee.

He is survived by his brothers, Don (Bonnie) Harvey, Gene Harvey, sister Linda Knapp; sons Thomas (Yvonne) Harvey Jr., William(Shelly Thompson) Harvey, Timothy (Elaine Lundberg)Harvey, Shaun O’Brien, Joshua (Ardelle) O’Brien, daughter Heather O’Brien; and many grandchildren and great grandchildren who loved him as much as he loved them.

We wish to thank Essentia Hospice and the staff at Middle River Health Facility, whose willingness to make accommodations for our large family and superior dedication to his care made his transition as comfortable as possible. We extend our gratitude not just for their hard work but also their compassion towards us all. Thank you for all that you do.   

A public graveside service will be held on Saturday, November 3, 11 AM, at the Lake Nebagamon Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will immediately follow at the Lake Nebagamon Auditorium from 12-3. Please join us in remembering the most wonderful man we were blessed to know!