(George) Harvey Merryfield was born on January 9, 1956, to Harvey Sr. and Joy Merryfield of Red Deer, Alberta.  He is pre-deceased by his father Harvey Merryfield Sr., his mother Joy Merryfield and his older sister Carol Gagne. He is survived by his loving wife Linda Merryfield and his two children Christine (Kenny) Simpson and Stephen (Chelsea) Merryfield, older brother Bryan (Jeannette) Merryfield and younger sister Joanne (Brent) Lambkin, nephew Bradley Lambkin and niece Nicole Lambkin.

Harvey was raised in Red Deer and as a young person was involved in school sports, such as basketball and football. After school he worked in a group home where he was able to display his impartial concern for people of all kinds. Later he worked for a few years with the family business, DACCA Sales, manufacturing and installing awnings and rolling shutters, occupying the position of shop foreman.

 

In 1979 he met the love of his life Linda, and they were happy to welcome their two children into the world. Harvey was a dedicated and devoted father and husband, working very hard to provide for his family physically, emotionally and spiritually. Eventually he began working at The Battery Doctors in Red Deer, where he stayed employed for over 30 years, and became very well known to many in the community who depended on his expertise.

 

In April 1987 Harvey dedicated his life to his God, Jehovah, becoming baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Harvey took his volunteer ministry very seriously and loved speaking to his neighbours about his faith. He also enjoyed serving as an elder in the local congregations, dedicating countless hours to helping and encouraging others. He regularly visited those in hospital, giving comfort and help when they needed it most. With all this he left a deep impression and will be remembered by many as an amazingly giving and caring friend.

Harvey was happiest outdoors, and he loved spending time in the Rocky Mountains. His family have many happy memories camping, hiking and enjoying campfires whether far away or close to home.

One of Harvey’s favorite things to do was observe the migrating Canada Geese as they spent time in the spring and fall at Mackenzie Trails. He was a coffee lover and could often be seen with a Tim Horton’s cup in his hand. He was fun loving and always had a quirky sense of humour, finding amusement in even ordinary things, and was regularly seen with a smile on his face.

 

Harvey enjoyed travelling to visit his children as they did their volunteer ministry. He flew several times to the Dominican Republic to visit Christine and Kenny. He traveled extensively within Alberta and all-around Canada; to Winnipeg, Vancouver Island and as far as the Western Artic to visit Stephen and Chelsea. He loved to explore new places and experience new cultures.

 

Harvey will be greatly missed. He will be remembered as a kind, gentle, calm, humble man. He was balanced, approachable, and empathetic.  He was a hard worker, loyal husband and devoted father. He was never concerned with fame, prestige, or position; rather he was content with a simple life and preferred to put his family and spirituality above all else. Many went to him for understanding, feeling safe to confide in him as he gave scriptural advice and counsel. He was attentive to young and old alike, deeply loved by all who knew him.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude for all the help and love that has been shown during this difficult time. We are confident that Harvey is alive in Gods memory. We cherish the Bible based hope of seeing him again in Paradise on the earth. We find comfort and strength looking forward to that future when painful memories will not be called to mind, tears will be no more, and we can feel the embrace of his loving arms again – (Rev. 21:3,4).

• Date : 2023-01-14
• Location : Eventide Funeral Home