Obituary of Beecher G. Harvey

Warrensburg: Beecher Gilbert Harvey, 91, of Burdick Ave., passed away peacefully Sunday, January 11, 2015 at Glens Falls Hospital, following a brief illness. Born May 19, 1923 in Warrensburg, he was the son of the late Loie and Susie (Pixley) Harvey. The oldest of “the Harvey boys”, Beecher enjoyed growing up on his family’s farm, at the backside of Hackensack Mountain; there, he learned how to care for the animals, and where his love of gardening sprouted, as well as berry picking in later years. Beecher served his country in the United States Army from May 1944 to June 1946. While stationed in France, he suffered frost bite to his feet, initiating a 97 day stint in Northampton Hospital in England. He attended Warrensburg Central School, and then began his 30 year career as a carpenter. He was a union member with the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America. Beecher loved ponies and horses, and was often a familiar sight, driving a pony cart in many parades and shows throughout the area. He shared this passion with the neighborhood children, encouraging them to ride his ponies. He was also active with the 4H, and served as the president of the W.C. Horseman’s Association. Beecher married Shirley L. Reynolds on September 11, 1948; she passed away 65 years later on their anniversary. The couple shared a loved for reading novels and spent countless hours doing so together. In addition to his parents, Beecher was predeceased by a son, Gary Harvey, his sisters, Olive Flynn Bowman and Flossie Hayes, and brothers, Ernest and Richard Harvey He is survived by a son, Brian Harvey of Warrensburg; a brother, Warren Harvey of Warrensburg; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Beecher was very grateful to have the special care and friendship of Billie, Rich, Billy, Suella, Shari, Carolyn, Cissy, Dave, and Brenda. He was a fantastic story-teller, who left many with a lifetime of memories, may he rest in peace. At his request there will be no calling hours or funeral services scheduled. A graveside service with military honors will be conducted at a time to be announced in the spring, in North Caldwell Cemetery. Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online guest book and condolences.