Josephine M. Harvey

Josephine Harvey, 90, a resident of Independence, passed away on August 29, 2010, at Heron Point Assisted Living Community in Monmouth.

Josephine Margaret Rath was bom on September 10th, 1919 in Bernstad, North Dakota. She was 90 years old. She was born to Christina and William Rath. Her father was to pass 7 days after her birth. At age 3 her mother married Sam Harvey who was to be the only father she knew. Her youth was spent in the Dakotas, Iowa and Minnesota. At agel6 she married her life partner, Guy Gordon Harvey and they shared 69 years together until Guy passed in 2004. Together they were blessed with 4 daughters. Her best friend and constant companion in the last years of her life, Helen May of Independence gave herwitfi 4 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. Esther Weimer now living in Oklahoma gave her 6 grand children, 8 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. Ruth Mare preceded her in death giving her 3grandchildren. Peggy Jackson (Philip) of Salem left her with 2 grandchildren and one great granddaughter due this month. Guy and Jo carved out a simple lifestyle working hard on a farm and raising the children. Their life together took them over many states with Oregon becoming the place of 'home.' Living in Independence, Mother worked outside the home as a sales clerk in local stores. Most memorable was her fast place of employment at True Value Hardware where she worked until her retirement. She was nothing if not a worker among workers. Her early retirement left her with time to do the crafts she loved. She did tulle painting, designed magical eggs out of ostrich and duck and many other things of beauty. She supported Guy with his adventures into nature bringing back wild game she cooked well and shared with many. Fishing was a passion for Guy and Jo enjoyed the benefits of his successes. They were members of the local Elks lodge where Guy attended meetings and Josephine was first in line at Steak Feeds. Her last years were spent at Herron Point Retirement Center where she developed many good friends and continued to share her talents of creation. There was a private celebration of life at Herron Point and the family asked donations be made in her name to the Willamette Valley Hospice for their support in her final days.