Our beloved Harvey Elmer McGurer, age 91, passed in peace surrounded by his family Dec. 15, 2022. He was born Feb. 18, 1931, in Newbury Township and was a resident of Geauga County his entire life.
Harvey attended Chardon High School, where he met and fell in love with his soulmate Joanne Carlson. They were married in Cumberland, Md., then made their home in Chardon. Harvey and Joanne went on to have five children, Harvey D., Claudia, twins Chris and Cindy, and Jimi.
In his youth, he loved working with horses and farming on his brother-in-law’s farm in Newbury. Once married he began work at Junction Auto Sales doing oil changes and washing cars. He worked his way up to become a Master Mechanic. At one time being ranked number four in Ohio.
Harvey received many awards and acknowledgments throughout his career. He worked at Junction Auto Sales for 42 years, through three generations of the Babcock family.
He also owned and operated with his wife Harvey’s Auto Service, a full-service garage and gas station in East Claridon for seven years.
Harvey loved to work with wood, building furniture, music boxes and clocks. He was a den leader for the Cub Scouts. He proudly still owned his very first car, a 1929 Model A Ford four-door sedan. He also owned a 1929 Model A Ford Roadster pickup, both of which he restored from the frame up. There was not an automobile, tractor, or motor that he could not repair. People were always calling or stopping by with problems with their cars and he always took the time to offer advice.
He enjoyed listening to music, gardening and growing apples, cherries and grapes.
Harvey and Joanne were fortunate enough to travel to many places in the United States and abroad to the British Isles.
He loved and cherished his family above all. He taught his children the value of honesty and integrity, to always honor your word, and instilled in them a strong work ethic of doing a job well and completely always.
Harvey is survived by his son Chris (Jocelyn nee Pfleger) McGurer, residing in Garrettsville, and daughters Claudia Cassidy and Cindy Young, both of Middlefield; grandchildren, James, Collin, Kara, John, April, Kimberly, Michael Paul and Kyle; great-grandchildren, Jordan, Carter, Luc, Belle, Christopher and Elise; daughter-in-laws, Diane and Tracey; and nieces, Louise Kortan and Deb Pierce.
He was preceded in death by his wonderful wife of 74 years, Joanne; and sons Harvey and Jimi; parents, Elmer and Lottie; brother, Leslie; and sisters, Ruth Loveland, Clara Wise and Marlene Chapman.
Harvey will be deeply missed by his family. A life well lived with integrity and devotion.
The family will receive friends Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2022, from 1-3 p.m., at Burr Funeral Home, 116 South St., Chardon. A memorial service will follow at 3 p.m.
Arrangements made by Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Chardon. Information and condolences online at www.burrservice.com.
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