Obituary of John Harvey

John Thomas Harvey, 90, of Big Flats, NY passed away peacefully and with dignity at Bampa's House in Corning, NY on June 6, 2025. Born on July 24, 1934, in Milwaukee, WI on what remains the hottest July 24 in history (105 degrees), John lived a life defined by kindness and positivity, and an unwavering devotion to those he loved. He married Barbara J. Harvey on August 15, 1959, until her passing in May, 2023. Since then, not a day has passed without her in his heart. He was the epitome of a gentlemen – polite, well-mannered, and kind. He lived generously and never passed judgement on others. His gentle nature and deep love for his family and children touched the lives of all who knew him - in the recent words of a long-time friend "John was an easy person to like." A devoted father and grandfather, he delighted in their company, treasuring every shared moment. John graduated from the University of Wisconsin, Madison and began his life-long career in transportation and distributions logistics, taking he Barb from Chicago to Minneapolis to Buffalo to Big Flats/Corning to join what was then, Corning Glass Works where he stayed until his retirement in 1994. Like Barb, he was lucky to have a lifelong passion parlay into a career. A train enthusiast, John's passion for model railroading was known by all who knew him. His intricate layout, lovingly built over decades, sparked joy and wonder in his grandchildren, children of family friends, students who he taught Operation Lifesaver to, and many preschool classes who visited his basement layout. After retirement he gave lectures throughout the US on transportation and logistics and built vacations around those locations. He and Barb were avid travelers and took countless trips in retirement that spanned oceans and decades. John is survived by daughter Nancy Worrell (Eric) of Pleasant Hill, CA, son Craig Harvey (Dana) of Pine Bush, NY, brother Dick Harvey of Cudahy, WI, two special grandchildren, Carla Worrell and Colin Harvey and many nieces and nephews most of whom congregated for his 90 th birthday last summer. He was considered a surrogate father to many of his daughter's friends. He was predeceased by Barb and his brothers Jim Harvey and Don Harvey. Family and friends are invited to the First United Methodist Church of Horseheads, 1034 W, Broad St., Horseheads, NY on Friday, June 27. Calling hours begin at 11:00 am, the service at 12:00 pm, followed by a luncheon. Memorial Donations may be made to Bampa's House PO Box 965 Corning, NY 14830 in lieu of flowers.