Harvey Barrett Karpiel

Harvey Barrett Karpiel Sr., born May 1, 1933, devoted son to the late Olive and John Karpiel, quietly left this life on September 1, 2012 in peace and comfort in the presence of his adoring wife JoAnn and surrounded by his loving, proud, and abundant family.

A 1955 graduate of the University of Illinois College of Engineering, Harvey retired after 47 years of service as Chief Engineer of Undercarriage at International Harvester (Navistar/Dresser/Komatsu).

His beloved children Sharon, Lynn (James) Dion, Laura (Donald) Eisinger and Harvey Jr. “Barry” (Nancy), ever a source of pride and joy, found great pleasure in his company, supported him during his many illnesses, and will miss him beyond measure.

His much loved step-children Andrea (Michael) Wolff, Nicholas (Renee) Philips, Gregory Philips, Lisa (Michael) Reninger, and Anthony Philips will remember him always for his caring and steady presence in their lives and for the infinite happiness he brought to their mother every step of their 33 year journey together.

“Papa” will be forever loved by grandchildren Katherine, Emily and Christopher Dion, Daniel and Natalie Olsen, Zachary and Ryan Karpiel, David (Kay) Wolff, Vanessa (Benjamin) Black, Adam and Alexandra Reninger, Rebecca, Melissa and Nicholas Philips V, and Jessica Philips and Roel Martinez, whose loving care was a sweet and tender blessing during the last weeks of his life.

He enjoyed the title of “Great Papa” and was favorite playmate to great-grandchildren Annabelle and Andrew Black. He leaves behind his loving brother and sister-in-law John and LaVerne Karpiel, dear sister-in-law and brother-in-law Rosilyn and Carmine Sementa, honorary daughter Elaine Phelps, and many dear relatives and friends who loved and respected him.

He was also the “dog whisperer” to his buddies Bridget, Misty, Duchess, Cocoa, Ozzie, and Quila.

With his wife, Harvey loved to travel, visiting and vacationing in more than 25 countries. Another source of joy was entertaining friends and family at their summer home in Door County for many years. He will be remembered always for his hard work, selfless demeanor, savvy card playing, quiet nature, subtle wit, honorable life, and his deep devotion to his family.

A visitation will be held Thursday from 4-9 pm at Cypress Funeral Home, 1698 N. Bloomingdale Rd. (between Army Trail Rd. and North Ave.) Glendale Heights. Prayers will begin Friday at the funeral home at 9:30 am and continue on to St. Isidore Parish for a mass at 10:45 am. Interment St. Isidore Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to Ups for Downs or the American Cancer Society would be appreciated. Please visit www.cypressfuneralhome.com or call 630-653-7666 for more information.