December 14, 1930 - February 27, 2023
In loving memory ~
It is with sadness we announce the peaceful passing of Harvey at the age of 92 with family by his side.
Harvey delighted in engaging with folks from all walks of life and had a genuine interest in getting to know everyone he encountered. He was involved and always found time to participate in many community activities. He cared deeply for the city of Vernon and the environment. He was a dedicated activist, passionate humanitarian, and naturalist. Harvey was determined to live simply with a minimal footprint and chose to take advantage of the abundant local fruit and vegetables his beloved Okanagan offers. He could always be spotted at the local Vernon Farmer's Market up until the most recent season.
Harvey was born in Winnipeg on December 14th, 1930, to Tom and Nadia (nee Dimitry) Eller. He spent his early years in Winnipeg with his parents and younger sister Lydia. The family then moved to Toronto where Harvey met the love of his life Dorothy at a Toronto church dance on January 7th, 1951. They were married on December 27th, 1952 and have three children. In 2022 they celebrated a milestone 70th Wedding Anniversary.
Harvey began his career as an Industrial Arts teacher in Norwich Township in 1952 at Delhi High School followed by a longer tenure with high schools in Brantford, Ontario. There he designed and built his first home. There was an opportunity to set up a new Industrial Arts shop in a Junior High School in North York and the family moved to Toronto. From 1973 to 1975 Harvey and his family moved to Lahr, West Germany with the Department of National Defense to teach at the high school on the Canadian Forces Base. Harvey took the opportunity to combine his love of photography with their many adventures in Europe.
In 1989, seeking a long-term retirement destination, Harvey and Dorothy travelled to British Columbia and on the way fell in love with the Okanagan Valley. They ultimately built the house of their dreams and settled in Vernon. They have been active in the Naturalist Club and loved cross-country skiing and snowshoeing at Silver Star. A trip in 2000 to New Zealand and many trips to Mexico and across Canada kept up his passion for travelling and meeting new people.
The family would like to express their appreciation for Harvey's wonderful neighbours and close friends who were always caring and supportive over many years. When Harvey gave up driving, his need to be 'out and about' was sustained by HandiDart personnel who always went the extra mile.
Harvey was predeceased by his brother-in-law, Bob Hardock and nephew, Gary Hardock. He is survived by his loving wife Dorothy who is comfortably residing in memory care in Vernon. He is also survived by his children Ken Eller (Cheryl Giraudy), Nancy Eller and Sandra Peters.
He will be remembered by his grandchildren, Aaron, Scott and Amelia and his sister Lydia Hardock, Dorothy and John Hudson, nephews and niece.
A private gathering will be held at a future date. As an expression of sympathy, those who wish to do so may send donations in memory of Harvey to a local charity.
Many thanks to the staff at Vernon Hospital for their care.