OBITUARY
Dr. Harvey Weston Parker
December 23, 1936 – May 5, 2020
Dr. Harvey Weston Parker, of Bellevue, WA, died peacefully at his home on May 5th, 2020. He battled Ampullary Cancer for almost two years with his family always by his side.
Harvey was born in Panama City, Panama on December 23rd, 1936. He had the privilege of being raised by four mothers, which included his mother, his grandmother and his two aunts - Norma Harrington and Muriel Neill, while living in the Panama Canal Zone, Colorado, Alabama, and Buenos Aires, Argentina. He attended the Alabama Polytechnic Institute (now called Auburn University) where he graduated with a Bachelor of Civil Engineering (BSCE) in 1957. He received his M.S. in Civil Engineering from Harvard in 1967 and then his Ph.D. in Civil Engineering with a Minor in Geology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 1976.
He made significant civil engineering contributions and publications for over 55 years. From his time as Chief Engineer of a US Navy Destroyer, to his pioneering work on steel fiber shotcrete in 1972, and to his innovative approaches to civil engineering projects including the Mount Baker Ridge Tunnel in Seattle, Washington (the largest soil tunnel in the world) and metro systems across the United States including Los Angeles, Washington D.C., New York, Boston and Chicago.
He also gave back to the industry through leadership and service. He was Chairman of several organizations including the US National Committee on Tunneling Technology, The Underground Technology Research Council and the Underground Shotcrete Subcommittee for the American Concrete Institute Committee. He served as president of the International Tunneling Association & Underground Space Association (ITA) from 2004-2007. In 2019, he was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award from the ITA.
One of Harvey's greatest loves was traveling with his wife Karen. They traveled throughout the Americas, Europe, Africa and Asia and made lifelong friends everywhere they stayed. He also enjoyed spending quality time with his extended family and grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his father Harvey Parker II and his mother Barbara O"Shaughnessy. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Karen of Bellevue, WA, son Neil (Diane) Parker of Tucson, AZ, and daughter Erika (Chris) Price of Edmonds, WA. He is also survived by his four grandchildren, Ryan, Stephen, Sydney and Andrew.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his name to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (pancan.org), Seattle Cancer Care Alliance (www.seattlecca.org), the University of Illinois, Grainger College of Engineering (www.grainger.illinois.edu/giving) or to EvergreenHealth Hospice Services (www.evergreenhealthfoundation.org, please specify “to support the Hospice program".
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Harvey's memorial service will be held at a future date. The family will be in touch with friends and family as information is available.
Memories
Dr. Harvey Weston Parker
have a memory or condolence to add?
ADD A MEMORYR.K. Goel
June 1, 2020
Really very sad to read about the sad demise of Prof. Harvey Parker.
I met first and last time with Prof. Harvey Parker during the World Tunnel Congress in 2007 at Prague, Czech Republic and also listen his lecture there. I still remember one sentence from his lecture - "Underground Space should be looked as the investment for future generations". This shows the futuristic thinking of a great human being Prof. Parker. I always use to share his quote during my lectures.
May his departed soul rest in peace.
Dr. R. K. Goel
Chief Scientist
Tunnel and Underground Space Design
India
email: rkgoel15@gmail.com
martin knights
May 23, 2020
In Memory of Harvey Parker –a colleague, a gentleman, and family friend
With deepest sympathy to Karen and the family.
What a kind person Harvey was . He always had time to sit and talk , help others and exchange ideas .
I fortunate to be the successor to Harvey as ITA President from 2007-10 and benefitted from his experience ,learning and wise counsel . His commitment to the industry was consistent and he always showed up and did his best. He knew how to work the room and was the consummate networker, confidante and had a happy blend of work, family, social and worldly conversation. He was really proud to be an ITA President and at each ITA , RETC, NAT or George Fox event he would always make sure that there was a gathering of past , former and current Presidents to propose a toast to ITA ‘s health and to record the gathering on camera…. just as he did in Naples last year ! (the attached picture is testimony to that; 5 ITA Presidents ….with Harvey at the centre ).
We liked Harvey a lot and Jenni and l always teamed up with Harvey and Karen at the US or overseas conferences. They made a great couple and were extremely popular with everyone they met. Jenni and l fondly remember our ITA Exco visit in 2008 to Vietnam and the 3 day post ITA tour of north and mid Vietnam with Harvey and Karen and the then ITA Secretary General Claude Berenguier and his wife Nan. A lot of laughter , vociferous opinions , eating, drinking, friendship and sight seeing ; conducted mostly on board a small tour bus…… with little observation of social distancing !
We miss you Harvey !
Martin and Jennifer Knights
Surrey,UK
Carlos Jaramillo
May 22, 2020
My condolences to the family. We invited Harvey to participate as a member of the BOC for the Esti Hydroelectric Project in Panama. He was delighted to join us, not only because the project was challenging, but because it gave him the opportunity to visit his birthplace after many years. The photo shows Harvey documenting the site visit with Barry Cooke and Gabe Fernandez (behind Harvey). We enjoyed working with him in this project and we always enjoyed his friendship, renovated each year during our tunnel conferences, and participation in other projects. We will miss Harvey.
Jim and Carol Mahar
May 21, 2020
We were so sorry to learn of Harvey's illness and passing. What wonderful memories we have of Harvey, Karen, and their children from our younger days in Champaign/Urbana, Illinois. Our deepest condolences to Karen and their offspring. It was a treat to know them all!
Love,
Carol and Jim Mahar
John Reilly
May 20, 2020
With great sympathy to Karen, Erica, Neil and his grandchildren
I’ve been fortunate to know and work with Harvey for nearly 30 years, first within ITA and then on projects in North America. Sometimes I would bring him in (Seattle Alaskan Way, Evergreen Point floating bridge) and sometimes he would bring me in (LA Metro). We co-authored many papers together on key topics for underground planning, design and construction, where his many insights and recommendations were positive, thoughtful, clear, far-sighted and relevant. He advised me while I was President of UCA and Chair of 2 ITA Working Groups – always generous with his time and wisdom.
As a fellow consultant, he helped me in many ways. When issues were difficult we would often compare notes and recommendations. However, it was as a trusted friend that I most remember my relationship with Harvey and Karen. He was always generous, positive and far-sighted. Sandra and I will miss him personally and professionally.
Perla Schmidt
May 20, 2020
Dear Karen, Neil and Erica,
I am deeply saddened to hear of Harvey’s passing. He was a gentle, compassionate and kind man. I am happy that Birger introduced our families together. Harvey was a great friend even after Birger was gone, he invited me to several ITA meetings. I remember very well when he and you Karen took me as roommate in Milan. It was a little tight for three , the hotel described the extra bed was adequate, Harvey took it with ease and told me I am family. You will be missed my friend, Rest In Peace ☮️ I am including a photo taken at the reception in Bergen ITA 2017.
Perla
Hamdi Aydin
May 20, 2020
I am very saddened to learn about passing of Harvey.
I had the honor to meet and talk to Harvey in various activities of International Tunneling Association & Underground Space Association (ITA) during and after his presidency. In 2005, world tunnel conference was held in Istanbul, Turkey when Harvey was the President. Everybody, including him, were very happy with the organization and to be in Turkey. Later when we have met on several occasions, he was always asking me when we would again meet in Turkey. Harvey could not see Turkey announcing his candidacy for organizing the world tunnel conference in 2023 (http://www.wtc2023turkey.org/); and if Turkey wins the election, unfortunately Harvey will not be able to be with us.
He was a very positive, friendly and intelligent person as well as being a gentleman. He will always be remembered.
I extend my deepest condolences and patience to his beloved family.
May God allow him to rest in peace.
Hamdi Aydin
Member of the ITA-AITES Executive Council and
Board Member of Turkish Road Association (TRA)
haydin@emay.com
Laurel Rich
May 18, 2020
Many words come to mind as we remember Harvey. Most prominent are kind, stalwart, and genuine. We will miss his easy-going nature, the twinkle in his eyes, and his sense of humor. He was so quick to smile and laugh. He had a terrific laugh, didn’t he? We feel extremely grateful for having had the good fortune of knowing and working with Harvey for several decades. He quickly became our friend. We hurt. We know his family hurts. We are praying for you, and for peace to come to you, in due time. With all our love, Laurel and Reed.
Michael Elwell
May 18, 2020
Michael & Eileen Elwell
With great sympathy
to Karen, Erica, Neil
Harvey Weston Parker
When I first met Harvey Parker, It was in our house during an ice storm on Long Island NY (about 1985). We were a privileged family in the Long Island elite, we had a potbelly stove. Heat was a premium when you have been out of it for four days and nights without electricity. Dottie, my wife, knew the Parkers, they only lived three blocks from us. Their kids Neil and Erika went to Flower Hill Elementary school with my two older children, Cindy & Bryan. Cindy is still a good friend of Erika, forty-plus years later.
The Parkers left our little group in Long Island to move to Seattle 1990? I was transferred to Seattle in 1991, the first people we called were Harvey & Karen. With their suggestions and advice, we moved to Yarrow Point, WA about 1 mile from the Parkers.
We socialized with the Parkers. I had a wonderful time with Harvey and the discussions we had over his many trips, his Navy career, tunneling, engineering experiences. I also had a common interest with him in Photoshop and Lightroom, two tools that I used in my business with Kodak. Harvey, with his photographic involvement on his tunneling and expeditions, had a need for these tools. I loved talking with him, his positive viewpoint, depth of knowledge, brilliant viewpoint was always exhilarating.
Our children grew older, college, jobs, weddings, and grandchildren. Harvey was a proud parent! When he was talking about his children there was always get a twinkle in his eye. He was so proud of them. When talking about the Grandchildren he would get that double twinkle.
Harvey, you earned a spectacular life. Great education, a wonderful marriage, fantastic kids, great loyal friends, unbelievable career, made the world a better place, with lots of love. I am a better person for knowing you. May God bless you.
Michael Elwell
Jon Kaneshiro
May 18, 2020
Dear Karen and family.
Harvey was a gentleman and a mover and shaker in the tunneling industry. He had a beautiful voice that never seemed to tire or go hoarse.
I had first contacted Harvey around 1983, while working on the steel-fiber shotcrete specifications for the Stanford Linear Collider and grew to know him as he had hired Tom Scotese to work on the Seattle Bus tunnels and through his involvement in ACI, UTRC, the OTHG (dubbed the Over-The-Hill-Gang), which consisted of two former bosses, Don Rose and Dick Harding, as well as Don Dodds, Ed Kennedy, Harvey, and as I recall also Ed Graf and Howard Handewith. And of course, I grew to know him with the ITA, where he got me involved in Working Group 15, Tunnelling and the Environment, whence he also served as Tutor.
Harvey was a force in tunneling, and I owe a great deal of gratitude for his kindness, good deeds and contributions to the industry and his promotion of my involvement.
With deepest sympathy,
Jon and Emi
Dan and Beryl Griner
May 18, 2020
We were deeply saddened to hear the news of Harvey’s passing. Harvey epitomized the word gentle-man; always kind, encouraging, optimistic and smiling. He was a man of high intelligence and accomplishment, but always walked in humility. His love for his family was very obvious. When observing he and Karen together one might come away thinking they were recent newlyweds; they looked at, and treated each other with great love and admiration. Harvey is home now. Our warmest thoughts and prayers are with his beloved family. Happy trails Harvey.
Scott & Cindy Buchanan
May 16, 2020
The world is forever diminished with Harvey’s passing. We were so fortunate to be his neighbor and know the bright, witty, charming and thoughtful person that he was. An industry thought-leader, loving father and husband, and an asset to our community, we know he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with Karen, Erika and Neil and their children.
Margot Moenning
May 15, 2020
Our friend Dottie Jensen and I attended
the wedding of Karen and Harvey.
Karen had been Dotties roommate
right out of college. As friends on Balboa
Island we all settled in different locations.
Our paths did not cross again, but the
early 60’s held fond memories.
My sympathy to all the Parker family.
Balwinder KAUR
May 15, 2020
It has been our privilege to live as Harvey and Karen's neighbors for last 7 years. Our first memory of him is stopping by at our house soon after we moved to the cul de sac .He was gifted with a smart and sharp brain and a kind and gentle heart. We will miss seeing him and the light he always had on late into the night in his office . It was comforting knowing he was watching out for his neighbors through his window.
Harvey RIP-you will be missed but not forgotten and our heartfelt condolences to Karen and his family.
Balwinder and Jujhar
Claude BERENGUIER
May 15, 2020
Harvey was not only a great ITA President but a true gentleman and he was also a very good friend.
It was under his Presidency that the ITA's relationship with the United Nations particularly developed in the field of Underground Space Use and as well as the creation of the "Prime Sponsors and Supporters" membership category and the ITA-COSUF Committee.
Harvey, with Karen by his side, contributed greatly to the development of the personal and family relationship within ITA, especially regarding the members of the Executive Council .
Please accept our sincere condolences for you, Karen, and for your family. We shared so many good times all over the world in these last thirty years and we will never forget him.
Nan and Claude
Harald Wagner
May 15, 2020
EULOGY for HARVEY PARKER
In his early days, prior to his university education, Dr.Harvey W.Parker, having been born in Panama and having had memories from his ancestors of the construction of the Panama Canal, did serve in the US Navy. From his days as a sailor in the Navy he did inherit his characteristic “Rolling Gait”, sort of special sway of pace, which made him always looking in good mood and venturesome.
Harvey has been a Ph.D. from Illinois University, where he was guided through thesis by his life long mentor Prof.Ralph Peck. Ralph Peck was a close confidant of Prof.Karl Terzaghi from MIT, who’s principle concept was developed out of mechanical engineering studies in Austria. It has been in early 1976 when I first met Harvey in his then A.A.Mathews office in Rockville, MD, together with Art Chase, Jim Monsees, Robin Mason, et.al..
Professional relations continued after common contributing to the 1976 ASCE Engineering Foundation sponsored Shotcrete Conference in Easton, MD. During this conference, WMATA’s Dupont Circle Station has been visited. Unforgettable ITA Executive Council activities took place together in numerous countries all over the world. I was amazed to learn, that Harvey was a swim champion. I remember swimming with him in places like e.g. Caracas, Iguazu, and Sharm El Sheik. After becoming ITA President in 2004, we spent great times together prior and during most of WTC Conferences and Gala Dinner celebrations. At WTC 2019 I met with Harvey in Naples just after the official ITACET meeting to discuss confidential health issues as we both have been united in faith good. Harvey wanted to exchange views and share with me experiences. I conveyed my convictions in recommending spiritual strength, combined with smart nutrition and regular exercise. Leaving the meeting, there was a bit melancholy in his “Rolling Gaits”. Harvey was pulling ITA into the future. ITA will continue to follow him!
Harald WAGNER - ITA CET Surveyor.
Travis Deane
May 14, 2020
I met Harvey shortly after transferring from Shannon & Wilson's Seattle office to our new Los Angeles office. He introduced me to his contacts at LA Metro and local tunneling consultants that developed into clients and friends over the past decade. Harvey played a big part in our success and I will always be grateful for his kindness and generosity.
Ron Drake
May 14, 2020
Dearest Karen,
Susan and I send our heartfelt prayers for you. We cherish our friendship and the fond memories of the times we spent together with you and Harvey. Thank your for sharing my message with Harvey in his last days:
I would like Harvey to know how very much he means to me and to know the great admiration I have for him as a friend and mentor. I often tell everyone that I want to be just like Harvey with unending energy and loving my work well into my 80’s. I am so very honored that Harvey is part of my professional and personal life. He always encourages me and is so supportive of my various work endeavors. I have very fond memories of the many meetings we had, sometimes just the two of us, where I learned so much and developed a tremendous respect for a giant in the tunneling industry. I enjoyed the military veteran pride we both shared. I will always remember Harvey’s positive attitude, “onward and upward”, which I use to my keep my spirits high. I know that I am one of thousands who have the greatest regard for Harvey and I am so truly honored that he spent time to know me, to constantly ask about Susan, and to be the most gracious of men I have ever known.
With our deepest sympathy,
Ron and Susan Drake
Heinrich Heinz
May 14, 2020
Dear Karen and family,
Ursula and I were saddened to hear about Harvey’s passing.
I first met Harvey in Seattle in 1991. However, many of my memories are from our brief but warm encounters with both of you at more recent tunnelling conferences. Two memorable moments are a dinner we had together on a boat tour in Vancouver in the late 2000s, and the post-conference tour through the Norwegian fjords in 2017 (the one you almost missed).
Harvey was someone to be respected in our world of engineering and tunnels. He was generous with sharing his knowledge and experience with us “youngsters”, always in a friendly manner. He will be dearly missed.
Harry Asche
May 14, 2020
Over the years, I met Harvey at US and international conferences. Sometimes at these conferences, I would know only a few people, but Harvey would always greet me with a friendly hello. Even though he was a very important person in the tunneling world, he had time for everybody. He seemed to know so many people, remember their names and make them feel welcome. I still refer to his lectures on ground investigation for underground projects. I am sorry to hear that he has passed away. He is an example to all of us.
Harry Asche, Brisbane, Australia
June Casella
May 14, 2020
I am honored and blessed to be Harvey's cousin. His dad was my Uncle Buddy, and my mother was his Aunt Jean. Our family was very small, and as I grew up I always knew that my cousin would be there for me, when I needed him. He was very dependable. He gave me great comfort when I was diagnosed with a brain tumor, and also comforted me through the passing of two mothers and my late husband. He was very compassionate and had a gentle, loving heart. He was very thoughtful and always said the right things. I cherished the moments that I spent with my cousin and his family. The world feels incomplete now without him. But I remind myself that this is the Lord's will, and He needs Harvey for the some very important work. And Harvey will excel in Heaven as he has on Earth. It is my daily prayer that the Lord will bring peace and comfort to my dear, sweet cousins, Karen, Erika, Neil and all of the many relatives and friends who adore him. I believe that someday we will all be united as a Heavenly family. In the meantime, I send "Oceans of Love" to you, Harvey. I will always love you.
Michael Ballou
May 14, 2020
A fine man, Harvey, and a gentleman. He will be remembered as being kind and intelligent, a keen mind and a welcome smile. Missed but not forgotten.
Rick Smith
May 14, 2020
I first met Harvey in Boston. Shannon & Wilson was just starting our work on the Central Artery/Tunnel Project. I was interviewed over lunch in downtown Boston. I felt somewhat intimidated by the thought of interviewing with Harvey and Shannon & Wilson, but Harvey made me feel comfortable and relaxed. It worked, since I got the job! The other memory I have of Harvey was of a day I called him in Seattle. His assistant, Lynn, told me that Harvey wasn't in the office, "He's at jaywalking school." "Jaywalking School," I thought?! "He doesn't know how to jaywalk?!" Apparently not, since he got caught jaywalking in downtown Seattle. Lyn and I both enjoyed a good laugh. I'll always remember Harvey as the gentlemen engineer. He was a great teacher and mentor. Thank you, Harvey. I wouldn't be where I am without your influence.
Rich Gingrich
May 14, 2020
I am so grateful that Harvey & Karen allowed me to walk alongside them this last two years as Harvey battled cancer. He recently shared with me that he felt drawn to faith from a very young age, and that his earliest memory in church was sitting at his mother’s feet as she played the organ. Harvey served as a deacon at Bellevue Presbyterian Church, and we were blessed by his gentle, humble heart and actions.
After reading the memories of his impact around the globe, it is clear Harvey was a beloved citizen of the world, and the world was the better for it. Harvey is now a beloved citizen of heaven, and we are all so very thankful for the time we had with him.
Harvey, we miss you,
Pastor Rich Gingrich
Linda & Gary Brierley
May 14, 2020
It is indeed sad to learn about the passing of Harvey on May 5th. He was a dear friend and a tireless supporter of the tunneling fraternity for more than 50 years. Harvey was always upbeat, friendly and positive about everything and everyone with whom he came into contact; especially the work he did for the ITA. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
CHRISTOPHER TRINKA
May 13, 2020
I've known Harvey 50 + years, since I met and then married Karen's sister Cheryl. Got to spend many happy family moments many holidays and especially when he and Karen, Erika and Neil lived in Huntington. As a city kid, sailing with Harve on Long Island Sound showed me the true meaning of "hard to the lee" and "man overboard." Harvey taught Monday nights at Columbia U and would stay over at our nyc apt. These nights became spaghetti nights, when we would have some wine, pasta and good conversation. Even when the Parker's moved to Seattle the family stayed close, thanks to sisters Cheryl, Karen and Nancy. I grew up with 2 big brothers, but Harvey and Darrell also became welcome additions in that regard. I always said that if I ever met anyone who said a negative word about Harvey, I would be very wary of such a person. As you might expect, such an occurrence never happened.
Albert Valocchi
May 13, 2020
On behalf of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Dr. Harvey Parker. Dr. Parker was an alumnus of our Ph.D. program and a respected colleague in the civil engineering profession who made a significant impact in the area of geotechnical engineering. He was a loyal supporter of the University of Illinois. We are proud of his accomplishments as an alumnus and are honored to call him a member of our Illini family.
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Albert J. Valocchi
Abel Bliss Professor & Interim Head
Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
205 N. Mathews, Urbana, IL 61801
valocchi@illinois.edu
1114 Newmark Civil Engineering Laboratory
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Jim Warren
May 13, 2020
Harvey Parker was a gentleman and a scholar. A man of character and integrity, he was honest and kind. I had the opportunity to work with him on two large projects, and learned so much from him. He will be missed by all who knew him. Grace and Peace to his family during this time.
Christian Ingerslev
May 13, 2020
Dear Karen,
Harriet and I have been coming to ITA for almost 35 years. Yes, I come partly for the technical side, but without the circle of friends with whom we have so much fun, Harriet would not often have come. You and Harvey have been a large part of that. Sadly, illness prevented me from traveling last year, so we have been looking forward to renewing these precious friendships again this year. Harvey has also been a great support both inside and outside ITA of my expertise for which I am most grateful. Please stay in touch.
Harriet and Christian
Davorin Kolic
May 13, 2020
Dear Karen, Erika and Neil,
To sad to hear. Harvey was a great guy: fully supportive and positively oriented, I am very proud to learn him and work with him on projects in the past.
I have met him first time in Seattle in January 15, 2000 when making up team to bid Seattle Light Rail project in the group of Modern Continental together with: Tony Stirbys, Don Miner, Harald Wagner, Antonio Nicola, Jean Launay, Frank Grynkewicz, Stephen Spencer, Mohammad Irshad, Rob Robinson, Maureen Malley and many others....
It was a great, finally winning team , we were the best bidder and Harvey was in charge for geological data in the Seattle area......
Since today we stay in touch with him supporting our new conferences in SEE South-East Europe and his and Karen's support for the organisation of WTC15 in Dubrovnik........
Harvey, we will be missing you and your positive spirit very, very much....
Barry Doyle
May 12, 2020
I presented my first paper at a tunnel conference in 1991. Afterwards, Harvey came up to me and said how much he enjoyed my paper, and encouraged me to continue my work on that topic, and later sent me some relevant records from one of his projects. I hadn't met him before but knew who he was from reputation. It meant so much to me to have my work acknowledged by Harvey, and we stayed in touch ever since. It was always a pleasure to see and visit with Harvey at our conferences. My condolences to his family. We will all miss him.
Jim Kaufman
May 12, 2020
Dear Karen,
I met Harvey during a pivotal part of my life when I applied for a Geotechnical Engineering Position at PB in 1977. At the time Harvey was putting together a talented group of engineers and he was our leader, mentor and friend. I remember you and Harvey hosting our group at your home on Long Island in about 1978. I worked on the Strategic Petroleum Reserve which was a major project at PB. Subsequently, I had an opportunity to join a team of engineers working on the Sudanese Track and Rehabilitation Study, sponsored by the Work Bank with the intent of helping Sudan become the bread basket for the Mideast. Working in a Third World Country lead to some bumps along the way and Harvey was there for me when I needed his support. He also fostered in infectious optimism within our group. After 2 years with PB, I decided that the speciality firm of a Mueser Rutledge Consulting Engineers where I had previously worked was a better fit for me. The experiences with Harvey and PB served me well as I eventually advanced to Partner in the firm and I retired at the end of 2013. Over the years, Harvey & I stayed in touch, usually meeting at the Moles annual Awards Dinner in NYC
My deepest condolences to you and your family. Harvey will be missed but not forgotten.
Antonio Figueiredo
May 12, 2020
I met Harvey at a seminar that took place here in Brazil in 1996. He was the great pioneer in the study of steel fibers reinforced shotcrete and I was trying to finalize my thesis, which only happened in the following year. His kindness in addressing any of my doubts and anxieties at that time was unforgettable. He was the finest gentleman possible to treat my limitations with care and, at the same time, leave me extremely motivated to move forward with the research work. Harvey's loss is painful, but I am very grateful to God for giving me the opportunity of meeting him. My feelings are that God will comfort his whole family.
Jean-Paul et Chantal GODARD
May 12, 2020
Dear Karen,
It is with great sadness that Chantal and I learned of the passing of Harvey. We share your pain and that of the family. We send you our sincere condolences and pray that you will overcome these moments, which are made even more painful given the sanitary circumstances in the World today.
The last contact I had with Harvey was in November 2019. He asked me to testify in favour of our mutual friend John Reilly for the award of a distinction from the American Underground Construction Association. Nothing at the time allowed me to foresee the evil he suffered from.
My participation in ITA activities since the end of the 1970s has been an important source of fulfilment for me in the fields of construction of underground structures and development of underground space. I owe it to the fruitful discussions with very great professionals in these fields.
Harvey was one of them, like some others, too many of whom have unfortunately already disappeared. I have been very happy to collaborate with him on many occasions. I was then able to appreciate his great skill and his unwavering attachment to the techniques that brought us together.
But beyond the technique, this experience was also for me the opportunity to live moments of great conviviality (diners, excursions, etc.) outside the meetings of the Working Groups or the Executive Council of the ITA. And I was happy to associate my wife Chantal who also greatly appreciated these meetings, especially those with Karen.
The memory of Harvey will therefore remain forever in our memories and, once again, we share the sadness of Karen and her family.
Jean Paul et Chantal GODARD
Dick Gates
May 11, 2020
Our condolences to you, Karen and your kids from Nancy and me. We met you and Harvey when he joined Shannon and Wilson. We soon became sole mates. We became great friends. His smile was always infectious.
My Army time and his Navy time became a special bond, particularly for the Army-Navy game. He won more than his share during those years. God bless him and you and your family. We miss him already. Love, Dick and Nancy Gates
Priscilla Nelson
May 11, 2020
Karen and family - I miss the idea of Harvey Parker. He was an idea man, and I always looked forward to sharing ideas with him. I could be a bit nutty, but Harvey was calm, collected, and always gave me great input. Every conference I went to, I always looked for you, Karen, and Harvey. Great times were had - since the first one for me - NAT in Acapulco. You will remember that meeting, Karen. What a dinner up at Las Brisas! We need to have a great dinner like that after this COVID is over - and toast Harvey again and again!
PPN
Chris Breeds
May 11, 2020
Dear Karen and Family
I first met Harvey in Denver in the early 1980's which was the start of almost 40-years of tunneling and underground shotcrete adventures. He was a fantastic mentor.
Always a cheerful and energetic man in work and in play, always full of optimism.
Of course, many of our social interactions also involved tunnels. A tour to the Jordan River, Dead Sea and Jerusalem had to include a visit to Hezekiah's Tunnel. This photograph was taken in January 2015 overlooking the east wall of the Temple Mount - no one was expecting snow in Jerusalem.
A great friend who I will greatly miss.
Trish Breeds
May 11, 2020
Dearest Karen,
Sending prayers for comfort to your and your family during this time of sorrow.
Harvey was the kindest sweetest man and Chris and I have many fond memories with you both. I think I first meet Harvey in 1982 Denver where Chris and I worked. The calm even tone in his voice, his laughter and his warm smile were all part of his inviting charm.
He will be missed.
Trish Breeds
Wolfgang Roth
May 11, 2020
I served with Harvey on a Review Board for the 3rd NYC Water Tunnel Project for many years. I fondly remember his great spirit and “can-do” attitude towards any kind of problem (engineering or otherwise) we were faced with. The attached picture, taken in 2006, says it all.
Ray Castelli
May 11, 2020
My deepest condolences to Karen, Neil and Erika. Personally, Harvey influenced my career as much as anyone. I first worked for Harvey during his research work at the Univ. of Illinois when I was a research assistant. In 1977, when he was head of the Geotech group at Parsons Brinckerhoff in New York City, he offered me a position and I jumped at it. I could not imagine working for a nicer guy. As I am still at the firm 43 years later, it is clear Harvey provided the defining opportunity of my career. I only regret that he did not stay longer at PB to continue developing the group and us then-young engineers. His unique character, cheerfulness and kindness have been a major influence on me and all others he has touched in his long and well-lived life. He will be sorely missed.
Peter Smeallie
May 11, 2020
Dear Karen and Family,
I was a great admirer of Harvey from a personal standpoint. When I assumed a new position at the National Academy of Sciences, Harvey personally spent two days bringing me up to speed and introducing me to all the players. Always with great enthusiasm and optimism. And he loved to laugh; he always go such a kick out my telling my children as was a candy wrapper.
He was a great man and will truly be missed.
Fondly,
Peter
Nasri Munfah
May 11, 2020
Dear Karen,
Therese and I are saddened by the passing of my dear friend and mentor Harvey.
Harvey was an iconic figure and a leader in the tunneling industry in the US and globally. I have had the honor to work with him on several initiatives for the ITA and I learned tremendously from him. I always respected and appreciated his positive views, intellectual thinking, global strategies, and leadership.
It was an honor to see you and Harvey last November in Miami when Harvey was awarded the ITA's Life Long Achievement Award; a well deserved honor toward the end of his career; we will all miss him.
Please accept Therese and my deepest condolences at this difficult time. We wish you and your family the strength during this period.
Therese and Nasri Munfah
Tarcisio Celestino
May 10, 2020
Karen, Erika, Neil and Family
Please accept condolences from Concha and me on Harvey’s passing. Needless to say, how competent professional he was, how important he was for ITA. He was always available. I remember once a teleconference was being scheduled with people ranging from the West Coast (Harvey) to Australia. I wanted to postpone the beginning so it would not be so early for him. He told me not to change it: there he was the next morning at 5 am!
I was awfully glad to have been the one to deliver him the ITA Lifetime Achievement Award. I remember I said Brunel would be happy that evening by knowing his own bust would be in very good hands. I was also happy Kare was on stage with him.
More than the colleague and the professional, we will miss the rare human being that Harvey was.
Tarcisio and Concha
Loren Lorig
May 10, 2020
Karen,
I was so sorry to hear of Harvey's passing. Just last week I was talking with Gabriel Fernandez. Gabe, Harvey and I spent many wonderful hours (and late nights) in Champaign and Dupont Circle working together. Harvey was the senior author on the first professional article I worked on. Of course, it dealt with shotcrete. I was fortunate to catch up with Harvey periodically over the years. In particular, I remember his visit to Santiago when Barb and I were living there.
One of our fondest memories is the bowl you and Harvey gave us for our wedding. We still have it. In fact it is one of the few surviving gifts. We will continue to think of you and Harvey every time we use it.
Love and prayers,
Loren and Barb
William Daly
May 10, 2020
I went to work for Harvey at Parsons Brinckerhoff in 1978 and maintained both personal and professional contact with him over the years. I often heard him speak of his wife and children. Not only was he an outstanding engineer, he was a true gentleman, one of the finest I ever knew.
Jamal Rostami
May 10, 2020
Karen, Erika, Neil and family,
Please accept my condolences for your loss. Harvey was truly a giant in tunneling industry, very knowledgeable about his field, loved and respected by friends and colleagues, a good mentor, and a true friend. His humility showed his depth of knowledge and humanity. He will be missed by many around the world and I wish the best of blessing to you and all your extended family and friends.
Respectfully,
J. Rostami
Raymond Sterling
May 10, 2020
Dear Karen and family
It is so hard to think that Harvey has passed away. He combined talent with great kindness and energy and hence was able to do so many things with organizations around the world - with the both of you making so many friends.
I have a variety of photos of Harvey and you in various exotic locations but it looks like this website will only allow me to include one. I've chosen a dinner on the riverbank in the Chengdu of 1990 (at the ITA conference).
If you would like the others, I can put them in a Dropbox folder for all of you.
With many fond memories and lots of love
Ray and Janet Sterling
Erika Schmidt
May 10, 2020
My condolences to Karen and family. I was so sad to hear of Harvey’s passing. I think now my dad and him are best friends reunited in Heaven 20 years later and watching over us. I’m sharing a photo of the last time we saw each other when he so graciously took me and my friend Leo to this wonderful restaurant overlooking Los Angeles. It has been a while, but I remember Harvey sharing stories about my dad and good times and ultimately sharing his kind heart always with my mom and me. Rest In Peace
Annica Nordmark
May 10, 2020
Dear Karen,
My deepest condolences in this time of sorrow.
I first met Harvey during the 1977 Rockstore conference in Stockholm and thereafter continously during many years with ITA.
It has been a true privilege to know him and to learn from his great experience of subsurface utilization. But also because he was such a nice and gentle person to know. I would wish to say:
"Thank you Harvey for many good times, not least in the company of your own support in life, wife Karen. May you rest in peace."
Annica Nordmark
Andy and Irene Bevilacqua
May 10, 2020
Karen, Erika, Neil and family,
The sky was illuminated and the darkness disappeared the night Harvey left his earthly home.
Our family feels sadness and loss at this time. His memory will always bring a smile, for such a warm wonderful friend.
God bless,
Andy and Irene Bevilacqua
Ginny Palowez
May 9, 2020
My Dearest Karen, Neil, Erika and your families - I am so sorry to hear of Harvey's passing. God bless his soul and I'm sure it will be. He was a true "gentleman" and a "gentle man". I am honored to have known him and spend time with you, Karen, and with Harvey. What an amazing life he had and what a wonderful, loving partner he had with him on his journey. I will be in touch soon.
My love and deepest condolences to you all.
Ginny Palowez
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Biography
Dr. Harvey Weston Parker, of Bellevue, WA, died peacefully at his home on May 5th, 2020. He battled Ampullary Cancer for almost two years with his family always by his side.
Harvey was born in Panama City, Panama on December 23rd, 1936. He had the privilege of being raised by four mothers, which included his mother, his grandmother and his two aunts - Norma Harrington and Muriel Neill, while living in the Panama Canal Zone, Colorado, Alabama, and Buenos Aires, Argentina. He attended the Alabama Polytechnic Institute (now called Auburn University) where he graduated with a Bachelor of Civil Engineering (BSCE) in 1957. He received his M.S. in Civil Engineering from Harvard in 1967 and then his Ph.D. in Civil Engineering with a Minor in Geology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 1976.
He made significant civil engineering contributions and publications for over 55 years. From his time as Chief Engineer of a US Navy Destroyer, to his pioneering work on steel fiber shotcrete in 1972, and to his innovative approaches to civil engineering projects including the Mount Baker Ridge Tunnel in Seattle, Washington (the largest soil tunnel in the world) and metro systems across the United States including Los Angeles, Washington D.C., New York, Boston and Chicago.
He also gave back to the industry through leadership and service. He was Chairman of several organizations including the US National Committee on Tunneling Technology, The Underground Technology Research Council and the Underground Shotcrete Subcommittee for the American Concrete Institute Committee. He served as president of the International Tunneling Association & Underground Space Association (ITA) from 2004-2007. In 2019, he was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award from the ITA.
One of Harvey's greatest loves was traveling with his wife Karen. They traveled throughout the Americas, Europe, Africa and Asia and made lifelong friends everywhere they stayed. He also enjoyed spending quality time with his extended family and grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his father Harvey Parker II and his mother Barbara O"Shaughnessy. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Karen of Bellevue, WA, son Neil (Diane) Parker of Tucson, AZ, and daughter Erika (Chris) Price of Edmonds, WA. He is also survived by his four grandchildren, Ryan, Stephen, Sydney and Andrew.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his name to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (pancan.org), Seattle Cancer Care Alliance (www.seattlecca.org), the University of Illinois, Grainger College of Engineering (www.grainger.illinois.edu/giving) or to EvergreenHealth Hospice Services (www.evergreenhealthfoundation.org, please specify “to support the Hospice program".
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Harvey's memorial service will be held at a future date. The family will be in touch with friends and family as information is available.