Harvey Neil Cheney

Harvey was born on September 9, 1932, in Levelland, TX, to the late Carr Bud Cheney and Hazel Dell Fleming. He was the oldest of four children. At various times throughout his childhood, Harvey lived in Texas, New Mexico and California.

On April 20, 1951, Harvey enlisted in the United States Air Force. He trained as an armament specialist and was subsequently assigned to the 51st Interceptor Wing, Suwon Air Base, Korea. Known for his sharp shooting even prior to his enlistment, Harvey was certified as an expert marksman during his tour in Korea. He enjoyed, and excelled, at target shooting well into his eighties.

His most fortuitous assignment was Lowry Air Force Base in Colorado where he served as an instructor. There he met a beautiful young nursing student, MaryAnn Romeo. After separating from the Air Force in April 1955, Harvey returned to California where he secured gainful employment as an electronics engineer. He purchased a car, a house and wedding rings. Harvey and MaryAnn were married on August 6, 1956, at Our Lady of the Wayside Church in Portola Valley, California. Their union produced six children.

Harvey remained a student throughout his entire life. He became very interested in photography for a time and even turned a family bathroom into a temporary darkroom so he could develop his own film. Airplanes and flying were passions that endured, and he earned a private pilot license, was a member of the Hillsboro, OR chapter of the Experimental Aircraft Association and served as the coordinator for their Young Eagles program. He read numerous books about sailing, bought a sailboat and spent many years taking the family on sailing trips on numerous waterways in Oregon.

Harvey deeply loved his Savior, Jesus. He was a devoted husband and an engaged father. His quick wit and tight hugs will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 68 years, MaryAnn, and six children: Dana (Chris) Augustine of North Carolina, Teresa Stark of New York, Paul (Rhoda) of Salem, Kelley of Salem, Eric (Miriam) of Hillsboro and Troy of Forest Grove; ten grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren; siblings Lee (Sally) of Tennessee, Karen (Dave) McGowan of Canada, and Linda McDaniel of Eugene; and many nieces and nephews.

Interment will be at the Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon.