My friend Roy Harsh was the most considerate, kind and gentle soul I have ever known. 

Roy had the wonderful ability (gift actually) of being able to make anyone he talked to feel special; you always felt better about yourself after a conversation with Roy.

I first met Roy when he was hired at our Costco Warehouse in Kirkland, Wa., in the late 1980's. He was so easy to converse with, because he was so sociable, charming and pleasant. 

Roy worked the entrance of the warehouse and would greet everyone who entered with a sincere hello and a warm smile. Often I would hear his deep, rich voice welcoming members whenever I was near the door.

Roy was the one constant; "the rock" in the hectic retail world that was the Costco warehouse. No matter how crazy it got, how angry or tense the atmosphere, Roy was always able to calm things down with his wit and charm. 

I never saw Roy sad or depressed; it wasn't in his nature. He was always upbeat and positive. That wonderful energy he had made each day that much better. 

I trusted Roy as would have my own father and I do know that someday I will see him again.

The world was indeed a better place when Roy Harsh was living in it.

God bless you my friend.

Roy, 
I can still hear the sound of your voice.  I wish we could talk again. I miss you everyday and I will always love you.

Donna

What a gracious, caring man. Roy you blessed my life and the life of my family. You and your amazing smile will be greatly missed.

Dearest Roy, this is written with the words I would say had we had the chance to say goodbye.
When you became the husband of my best friend Gwenn I 'sized' you up.Charming, handsome, talented, and a wild sense of humor was certainly impressive. We got on famously. I admired your knowledge and love of opera. I couldn't understand why you were repeatedly issued a driver's license and ballet class became a comedy of errors for us. We had great fun. Your home was always welcoming, with warmth and laughter. I will miss you, my friend. Love, Barbara Arms (McGoo)

More memories from a Bellevue Botanical Garden docent friend.  Roy's hand always went up first to volunteer to help with a project or drive us somewhere. We truly miss his wit and humor at our meetings.  For years, I thought he had several children, for he frequently proclaimed that he was going to name his next daughter an unusual botanical name-aralia, darmera filipendula, always keeping us laughing.
You are a treasured person, Roy.  May your family find peace in their wonderful memories.
Cathy Gibbins

Roy was the epitome of a"people person".
I met Roy in my '96 docent class at the Bellevue Botanical garden first noticing his dashing good looks.
Over the years we heard stories of his dancing days,opening for Pearl Bailey.his association with Medina grocery,Costco skiing group,opera,ballet,and many others-gathering friends wherever he went.
 We miss his 16 year presence in the first row at docent meetings providing humorous commentary,there and wherever he contributed his time and talents.
 Metasequoia glyptostroboides,my friend.You will long and lovingly be remembered.
 Jan Lyon

I have know Roy for many years.  We sang and traveled together with our group Heartsong.  He was such a joy to be around.  I always had such fun with Roy - no telling what mischief we would get into!  I learned so much from Roy -  how to have fun and participate - not just let life pass you by.  Being around Roy brought such light into my life.  He was an amazing gentleman and now he is one of our angels.  I will miss him immensely, but I know my memories of him will last always.  I love you my friend.

Roy used to partner me in Gwenn's partnering class. He was always serious and sweet-- wonderful memories.

Oh, the richness you brought to my life, dear friend. You promised you would always be with me and I know you will be; yet, I miss you muchly. You were an angel on this earth: the world is a better place and people are kinder to one another because you were here. 

Skiing, dancing, sipping Manhattans in places with beautiful views, experiencing the wilds of Nature's plantings as well as well-kept gardens I will enjoy with bigger smiles because of my sweet memories of sharing them with you. Thank you for loving me, for your friendship and for helping me see possibilities where I could not see them before.

Dear Cecelia and the rest of Roy's family, I hold you close to my heart with hopes you find comforts and joys reflecting on the life of your beloved Roy, in your faith and in sharing all this with one another and your friends.

Sincerely,
Deborah

i always sensed a spirit of hospitality in Roy, that was so endearing and inviting, It brings a smile to my lips to remember him. Marion Gerard,( Heartsong soprano)

Roy - thank you for your loving presence in all of our lives! You have given a gift to all that have known you.

Dear Roy,

I miss seeing you do those pirouettes in the foyer of Cornish College (Kerry Hall). I would say "do straighten your knee when you turn" and you would laugh and turn quadruple pirouettes with a bent knee. I miss you old friend, we have known each other for thirty years or so. I miss your charming smile and your sense of humor, and recently, that gamin charm with your colorful berets perched on your head. We will meet again, soon in my dreams.

Pat

Roy was my surrogate father, confidant, and above all, good friend.  On the many international trips with my students and their parents, Roy was a star with his quick wit, gentle caring, and positive attitude.  And he made me laugh!  There never was, nor ever will, be another Man like Roy Harsh!

Roy, 1996, a vintage year, as we started our docent friendship at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.  Our common enthusiasm for gardens, gardening and all that goes with plants and people highlight those years of working together.  You will have a special place in our hearts, always.  Leila Martin

I have a feeling that this will be the first of many messages I shall leave, for this most beloved of all men. Thank you my precious for the joy of your company, for the richness of your love for me, for the generosityof your spirit,
for the sweetness of your words,for realizing  how I could grow and encouraging me, and mostly, for being the You that you are. There is no limit to the gratitude I have for the brief-but gorgeous time-we were together.
Cecilia (Bellevue WA.)

My name is Daryl Braun, Roy was my uncle and the most amazing man I have ever known. Just to be around him was a breath of fresh air.  Although we lived so very far apart, anytime I was able to talk with him or see him was a great experience in my life and one I will always treasure.  Uncle Roy was truly an inspiration to all of those who ever had the pleasure of his company, love and trust.  I will miss him dearly but will always know that heaven is a little brighter with his presence there.  I love you Uncle Roy and I will miss you.  Love Daryl

Uncle Roy, I mourn your passing, but celebrate your life! My childhood memories of your visits home have never faded. There was always an "electric" feeling in the room, you were one of those rare people that had an honest-to-goodness "aura"  about you. For me, thats the one thing that I will never forget! Your quiet elegance,your kindness and charm served as an inspiration for me to emulate. You are dearly missed, but will never be forgotten!  Godspeed to you Uncle Roy!

Roy, My Angel. I first met you at our church when I was 10 or 11 and you glowed white and gold. I really thought you were an angel with the most wonderful joyful smile in the world. How did I know that one day you would marry my mom and become my Dad? You had the best sense of humor and you kept us laughing all the time. I learned so much from you! You gave my mom her most happy years and have been an example of what to do in relationship and in life. And now you really are an Angel... you said you would never leave us and I feel you with us all the time... still, I will miss you forever xoxoxo

I have known Roy Harsh for nearly 40 years, from when he worked with my husband, (also Roy), at Medina Grocery.
Since then, he never really aged - he always looked, acted, and moved like a much younger man. He epitomized joy, caring and contentment. He will always be our Peter 
Pan, and he will always be our favorite person. Ever.

OBITUARY

Roy Donald Harsh

April 6, 1928 – October 16, 2012

Sunset Hills Memorial Park & Funeral Home

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