Robert George Harvey, 73 passed away surrounded by family at The Hospitals of Providence Transmountain, El Paso, TX on May 14, 2022. Bob was born on August 26,1948 in Mt. Vernon, NY to Brigadier George and Faith (nee Malpass) Harvey. His elementary years were spent in North Arlington, NJ. He graduated from Withrow High School in Cincinatti, OH His parents and family were very active in the Salvation Army. Bob was a decorated veteran who served in the Army during the Vietnam War. After serving in Vietnam, Bob was stationed in Germany for several years then served another sixteen years in the Air Force Reserves. He studied Asian history and graduated from Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA where he was a proud member of the Duquesne University Veteran's Association (DUVA and their one time gazoo band). His Air Force Reserve unit was activated during Desert Storm. Bob was very proud of his military service.

After moving to KS, Bob started working in Health Care Administration. He was a Fellow in the American College of Medical Practice Executives. When Bob wasn't working, he had a passion for enjoying warm Caribbean cruises where he could soak up the sun on sandy beaches with his beautiful bride Joan so much that they went floating over 25 times. He loved music of all genres especially Celtic, Jimmy Buffett, the Les Miserables soundtrack, and the Forrest Gump soundtrack. A favorite quote Bob often borrowed from Jimmy Buffett was "I'm growing older, but not up". After retirement from Lawrence Memorial Hospital he enjoyed relaxing on the patio, grilling pork tenderloins, having a Coors Lite or two and listening to tunes because it's five o'clock somewhere. He was an avid Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas University Jayhawks basketball fan.

Bob was predeceased by his parents. Bob is survived by his wife Joan, nee Bittle, of El Paso, his children Derek, Maureen and Ian Harvey (and their mother Kathy Bosaw) of KS, step daughter Allison (Zach) McGinnis, El Paso, TX. Also surviving are his sister Virginia (Carl) Shotter of NJ, his brother Richard (Darlene) Harvey of Ohio and Sister-in-law Jean Waeltz, IL several grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Bob had a special group of veteran friends that meet every Friday afternoons in Lawrence for happy hour. He treasured those Fridays. He leaves many special friends who will miss his sense of humor, his true friendship, and his daily serious and silly Facebook posts.

Interment of remains will be held at Ft. Leavenworth National Cemetery, KS on July 8, 2022 at 1:30 pm for family and close friends. A Celebration of Life will be held later that afternoon at Arterra Event Center, Lawrence, KS starting at 3:30.

Memorial donations may be made to Special Olympics, The Gary Sinise Foundation, or the Salvation Army.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Lawrence Journal-World on Jun. 26, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Harvey

7 Entries

Kaye McIntyre

August 19, 2022

Much belated but heartfelt condolences on the loss of this dear man. I had the privilege of interviewing Bob several years ago for the Kansas Voices of the Vietnam War oral history project. I was struck by his warmth, honesty, and sense of humor. I'm so honored that he shared his story with me and so glad that our paths crossed.

Michael Aldridge

July 12, 2022

Joan. I was so sad to learn of Bob's passing. I always enjoyed working with him - particularly his wonderful sense of humor. Bob was a good man and he will be missed. ~Michael A.

John Gravino

July 8, 2022

So sorry to hear about Bob´s passing. I knew him through work. He was our practice manager and was always a pleasure to work with. Trying to manage multiple doctors and nurses was not easy but Bob always did an excellent job.

Tennille Kress

July 7, 2022

I first met Bob and Joan at LMH. Bob was always right there and joking and smiling. Later he was the first person beside my husband and I to learn I was expecting. He always reminded me of that and would follow Ace growing up on Facebook. Just saw Joan at the airport, much love!
Tennille

Sheryle D´Amico

June 27, 2022

Joan, I was sorry to hear about you losing Bob. No question he kept those he worked with laughing with his antics while getting the work done. Your "LMH Family" was so happy when the two of you met and eventually married. Thinking about you and your family during this difficult time. Sheryle

Gene Meyer

June 26, 2022

Joan and family, I am so sorry to hear of Bob´s passing. I knew Bob when he worked at LMH as a physician practice manager and was a true professional. This was a very difficult job and Bob did an excellent job. He was a great communicator and was highly respected by all. I think we all were so pleased when Bob and Joan found one another and what a couple! Always happy participating in LMH events and I recall seeing them at Buffett concerts. Joan thoughts with you on your loss.

Dr. Charles Yockey

June 26, 2022

Joan-I was so sorry to read about Bob´s recent death. I remember well his time/work at LMH, and how much he cared for you. My wife and I hope and pray you are doing okay during this most difficult time. I hope to see you on July 8 in Lawrence.

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