Harvey Martin

He was a devoted, cherished husband to Joan, an adored, beloved, supportive father to Debbie (Rick) and Linda (Ed) and proud Papa to Dana (Mitchell) and Gina (Kaleb). Harv leaves behind his sisters, Judy (Jack) Rowe and Ruby (Gord) Mayo and special niece and nephew Audrey and Ray Rideout.

Harv was born in 1934 in Bulls Cove, Burin Newfoundland. He was, as they say, a "Proud Newfoundlander", leaving the Rock only to search for work. He arrived in Hamilton in 1953 and worked at the TH&B Railway where, on a blind date he met his soulmate Joan, marrying her in 1957. Harv was a hardworking proud employee of Dofasco, working his way up from sweeping floors in the Melt Shop to General Foreman in Export. After 32 years he retired from Dofasco. He was blessed by being retired longer than he worked.

Upon retirement, he was able to enjoy one of his favourite past times, golf. And he was good at it. He loved the game as well as the camaraderie post-golf with all his buddies at the Legion. In later years when he was no longer able to play, he still enjoyed meeting with the guys there, solving the problems of the world while playing dominos.

Harv loved to travel. He and Joan became world travellers once he retired, embarking on numerous adventures with their dear friends Andy and Marilyn. Cruise after cruise, trip after trip, content with Joan by his side.

But by far, the most important thing in Harv’s life was family. Nothing mattered more to him than Joan, Debbie, Linda and later granddaughters Dana + Gina. For Harv, the sun set and rose on Joan. They were blessed with 68 years of marriage. Harv worked hard to provide his family with a wonderful life. But more importantly, he provided us with his unconditional love and unwavering support. He was a beautiful man with a generous heart the size of the universe. He was our rock, a soft place to land, always filling our lives with special memories, laughter and love.

Harv had many friends. His warmth, sense of humour, quiet respect for others and warm glint in his eye made people gravitate toward him. He embodied the expression "He would give anyone the shirt off his back." Nothing made him happier than having his house full of family, friends, food and laughter.

Cremation has taken place. Harv’s life will be celebrated at The Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 163 at 435 Limeridge Road East, Hamilton on Sunday, September 21st from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers or donations, the family asks that you recall a happy memory of Harv, one where there is much laughter and joy. Celebrate his warm presence in the world by remembering the loving, extraordinary, special man he truly was.

Harv: May you be hitting nothing but holes in one on the greens up in heaven.

“You gave so much when you were here, And although you’ve gone away,

We’ll carry you in our broken hearts, Missing you more than words can say.”