Steven G. Harvey

Steven G. Harvey age 70 passed away on July 19, 2016 at Cape Fear Hospice after a short but tough battle with pancreatic and liver cancer. He was born in Los Angeles CA June 7, 1946 the son of the late Guy W. and Mona B. Harvey. He is survived by his wife Lynda of 49 yrs., sons Guy J. Harvey(Raleigh), Clay L. Harvey, wife Meg(Raleigh), and Grady W. Harvey (Asheville). He adored his 3 grandchildren, Brooke(13), Blake(7), Hunter(6). Steve is also survived by his brothers Stan G. Harvey(Judy)of Philadelphia,PA, Bill J. Harvey(Noami)of Columbia MD. Nieces Cassia, Myanna, Joia,and Sophia and his dog Buddy. Steve and Lynda grew up in Jacksonville FL. He graduated from The University of Florida with Bachelors and Masters Degrees in mechanical engineering. He graduated third in his class. He started his career with Ford Motor Company in Dearborn MI in 1971. He designed the front end suspension for the Ford Bronco. Hating the cold and missing Florida he moved his family back to Florida to work for Hudson Pulp and Paper in Palatka,FL. After 4 yrs he moved his family to Wilmington NC to work for Federal Paper now International Paper for 25 yrs. he joined the Federal Paper Board Engineering Dept in 1977 as group leader. He managed all engineering activities, became the Technical Assistant Superintendent in production for the mill. He provided technical support for the daily round the clock operation of both paper machines and support systems. He was actively involved in product improvement programs and new product development. Following his tenure in the daily mill operations he returned for a brief period to the engineering dept. as a Senior Engineer. Once the mill was acquired by International Paper he was appointed as the manager of the newly formed Paper Machine Task Force where he led a major modernization and rebuild of the paper machines successfully bringing them to world class status. His employees and co-workers had the utmost respect and always knew they could rely on Steve for solid advice and productive solutions to any situation that may arise. He will be missed by all that knew him and worked with him. In addition to working at the mill Steve was a big believer in a Plan B. His Plan B consisted of obtaining his real estate license and then purchasing his own rental properties. He managed and maintained all of his properties on his own. Steve also was very active in his neighborhood of Turtle Hall in particular with its marina. He served under several positions on the Marina Board. A major project he undertook was the replacement of the Marina's bulkheads. He had the rare ability to envision the concept, produce the design, supervise the bids and made this major project a reality. Through several stages over a 7 year period the 1500 linear feet surrounding the boat basin was completed with a projected useful life of 50 years. He also completed the vision for a fresh water well that many thought could not be done. Steve was considered the "go to guy" if ever there was a technical issue, striking a balance for the members to balance costs and still maintain quality work. He was an avid fisherman, loved the beach and enjoyed spending time on his boat with family, friends and fishing buddies. Steve always lived life to the fullest, always had a radiant smile, positive disposition and always willing to undertake any task to help anyone. Steve lived until his last day not allowing illness to define his life. A fighter but always finding joy in the things that were most important to his family. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, friend and neighbor to all. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Pat Warren as well as Dr. Kenneth Kotz and his oncology team. Funeral Services will take place on July 26 at Andrews Mortuary 1617 Market St. Wilmington NC 28401. Visitation will be July 26, 2016 from 12p-2p with a short memorial service at 2pm. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Steve's name to a charity of your choice.