James Harvey, 80
On October 27th, 2023, James "Jim" Harvey, 80, went to be with our Lord. He passed away peacefully at home with his loving wife Shirley, by his side.
He was born March 8, 1943 in Winner, South Dakota, to Albert and Verle Harvey. His early years were spent exploring and occasionally landing in “mischief.” At the age of 12, the family moved to Montana and Jim became a steadfast Montana boy for the rest of his years. He loved Montana’s wilderness and spent every minute he could enjoying the outdoors.
He met his soul mate and eternal love Shirley in 1961, and they quickly became high school sweethearts. They were married in January 1965. Their love was extraordinary and continues to be an inspiration to everyone in their family. They were blessed with three children, five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Jim had a quiet presence that exuded unconditional love, strength, support and fun. He was an exceptional husband, dad, grandpa and great-grandpa "Popz," and his family was his greatest joy. He shared his love of outdoors with all of them and proudly followed all their activities and sporting events. The role of Popz came so easy to him and he formed a very unique and special bond with his greats. They all loved Popz.
He had many hobbies and interests. He loved getting firewood, hunting, fishing, throwing axes, gardening, yard games, playing cards, BBQing, cooking for family and friends and so much more. He maintained an immaculate yard that hosted many corn hole and croquet contests. His love of life and his youthful adventurous spirit brought so much brightness and laughter to his family, friends and even some strangers. He loved making up games (including his own rules) and could throw an epic garage party. Most family gatherings and all holidays involved a special game created by Jim with Jim’s rules passionately debated with his grandkids.
He received his education from Flathead High School, graduating in 1961 followed by four years serving in the United States Navy. After serving his country, Jim and Shirley returned to Columbia Falls and he followed his heart to the woods where he worked for 15 years as a logger. He loved and respected the forest and knew all trees. In 1983 a work accident prompted a career shift and he spent his remaining working years at the Plum Creek MDF Plant.
He was a deeply faithful man and looked to God to guide him through life. His dedication to our Lord provided him strength and shaped him to live his life full of integrity and honor. He welcomed Jesus and the final journey to glory.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Shirley; daughter, Connie (Al); son, Russ (Tara; daughter, Laurie (Mark); five grandchildren, Justin (Becca), Jason (Kala), McKenna, Danielle (Tanner) and Tom (Emily); six great-grandchildren, Olive, Ada, Josephine, River, Rylie and Beau; sister, Sharon Bristow; brother, Mike Harvey; sister-in-law, EJ Hoerner; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Verle Harvey; father and mother-in-law, Willie and Doris Hoerner; sister, Myrna; brother-in-laws, Dick Wang, Jerry Bristow, Danny Hoerner and Doug Hoerner.
Jim will be forever loved and dearly missed by each of us that were blessed to share in his life. Let your wings fly, we love you.
Donations to St. Richard’s Parish, Columbia Falls, Montana or your choice of charity.
A vigil for Jim will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 2, at the Columbia Mortuary. Funeral mass will be celebrated at 3 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 3, at St. Richard Catholic Church with burial to follow at St. Richard Cemetery.
Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls is caring for the family.