Harvey Tremblay

October 15, 1942 - February 24, 2016

Harvey Tremblay was a resident of Harmony Hills Long Term Care Community in Toronto when he breathed his final breath. This occurred within three weeks of his first year anniversary at the home. It was a sudden death, freed at last from the degenerative neurological progression of multiple sclerosis and, in his words “an untenable situation”. Born Jean Hervé Tremblay in Bathurst, New Brunswick, he was predeceased by his parents Hervé and Dorothy (née Hudon) Tremblay and is survived by Jeanine Severin, his beloved soulmate and spouse of over 35 years. The eldest of eight, Jean, as he is known to his immediate family, provided invaluable assistance to his adored Mother in raising and mentoring this lively brood of siblings - Guy (Loraine), Pierre, Annette (Guillaume Pinet), Suzanne Materniak (the late Stan), Philippe (Gisele Lanteigne), Claude and Claire Haché (Louis). He cherished the deep, loving bond with his in-law family, headed by the matriarch, Stella Severin, sisters- and brothers-in-law Bruna and Bubba Marriott and Mary and Don Clayton. He will be missed by his nephews and nieces, especially Tim and Chris Clayton, Sean and Tanya Marriott and Tara and Matt Rall. His great nieces and nephews will fondly remember their Uncle Harvey – Andrew and Melanie Clayton, Zachary and Rachel Marriott and Avery Rall.

By profession, Harvey was an exploration geologist, a member of that hardy breed of adventurers who rambled through the wilderness, blazing new trails in their quest for mineral discoveries. He possessed an encyclopaedic knowledge of Canada’s known and historic deposits and there was nary a visible outcrop that would escape his scrutiny. He was happiest in this prospecting role with his trusty geological hammer at his side. By the mid 1990’s, health and the economic environment led him in a new direction, this time exploring for different treasure. Harvey became a passionate collector of antiquarian maps, books and ephemera with ever expanding interests and acquisitions to satisfy his insatiable thirst for knowledge and beauty. Some collectors become dealers and in this capacity, Harvey thrived – customers were known to say “he was so enthusiastic about the book that I just had to buy it”.

Those who knew Harvey marvelled at his boundless passion, energy and joie de vivre. Being around Harvey was never dull – there was always fun, excitement and at times moments of hysterical insanity. Many also remember him as fearless, opinionated and irreverent, yet compassionate, kind and always willing to help anyone in need. You were a singularity, “absolument parfait” and we will miss and love you forever, our dear, sweet Harvey. Special thanks to Bruna and Mary and to Pierre, Carmel, Dave, Helena, David, Sheila, Carol, Judy, Quoc, Jacqui and Adrian for your unfailing support and friendship. Thanks and appreciation to the staff at the home, especially Noel. If you wish, donations to the MS Society of Canada or to a favourite charity would be appreciated. A private service and cremation has taken place with a celebration of life planned in the spring.

Arrangements under the direction of Trull Funeral Home & Cremation Centre, Toronto, ON.