Steven John Harvey

May our memories of Steven always embrace us with the warmth and smiles he brought to our lives. A sweet soul who forever sought to make others comfortable in his presence. He loved a good controversial conversation, always willing to learn about things he did not understand and seeking out the answers. Steven was caring and understanding and gave graciously to others in times of need from an incredibly early age, donating his birthday money on occasion, as well as his time to many different causes. He also raised a guide dog for an autistic child, and it was quite difficult for him to part with “Jettis” when the time came.

He was such a blessing to so many people and invested in ways to improve others' lives. His selflessness and ability to put others first was something to be admired and I do not imagine a day went by when he did not spend time pondering how lucky he was to be a part of such an amazing family.

As many know, Steven was born with quite a few medical disadvantages, but he did a fantastic job of making the best of it. I am sure he had some exceedingly tough times in school trying to keep up with all his classmates, but I never remember him lacking friends. It was admirable to watch him rise above his medical disabilities at an early age, constantly challenging himself and pushing himself to be better at anything he set his mind to, be it basketball, skiing, biking, or anything else the average young person was into. He tried terribly hard not to let his disabilities limit him.

He matured into an amazing young man, who had a few bumps along the way as most of us do, and after receiving his degree, settled into a job he valued and a wonderful, loving relationship with beautiful Aisha. His future was bright and shiny, and we will all miss seeing the unfolding. Love and light to you sweet Steven. Your gift of precious memories will follow us through the rest of our lives.

From Steven's Aunt Pam

Thoughts from Steven’s Dad:

I am crushed. I know from experience that I am not young enough to escape this heartache. I’ll always feel like Steve was cheated out of the best years of his difficult life.

We were Steven’s foster parents and then we adopted him when he was 4 years old. Such a cutie, such a strong young boy. Always happy to be involved. He had a rough life overcoming major health issues. Such a fighter, He never gave up.

We gave Steve a birthday party when he was 10 years old and he wanted to donate money, instead of getting presents, to 9/11 victims. When the helicopter crew from Huntington Beach heard of this they came to his party. Steve kept in touch with the captain for years.

Steve’s life was a challenge, he was born with facial paralysis and had a crooked smile, paralyzed vocal cords, which effected his speech and ability to eat. He was deeply troubled when he was in a diner with his friends and a policeman made a face at him. Mocking him. Although obviously hurt, I think this made him determined to say, I am who I am, flaws and all. Take it or leave it.

Steve never could decide what he wanted to do in school. He took a million classes and took ten years to graduate. Finally settling in with business, he would have been great at real estate or finance.

I am so sorry that Steve will not see the best part of his life. His life with a loving gentle partner. We saw Steve transform when he met Aisha. They were obviously so much in love.

We saw Steve start a job with the possibility of growth, a job he was thrilled to have. Proud as punch.

As my health issues surfaced this year Steve stepped up and wanted to help in any way he could. He helped me fix things around the house and called every day to see if we needed him to pick up anything.

My heart is broken. I will always miss him. I feel proud of all the effort and dedication we had to allow Steve to be independent in a world not always so pleasant to live in.

For Aisha-

He who walks in the shade of love will have heaven beneath his feet.

From Steven’s Mom:

Goodbye My Sweet Son

Most anyone who knows me has probably met or heard me talk about my son, Steven, who we adopted when he was four years old after fostering him for four years. He was like a light in a dark room and made a difference in so many lives as he felt his way around his disabilities and finding his place in this sometimes very cruel world. He was a consistent help throughout his life at the Foster Care Auxiliary, helping other foster families. He had become a responsible, reliable, contributing young man. He had earned his BA, found a great job in his field, and found the love of his life. I feel proud of all of Steven’s accomplishments and will always miss his future. Sunday morning someone driving the wrong way on the 405 freeway in Seal Beach plowed into a car that he was a passenger in. And just like that - he is gone.