John Harvey

HARVEY, John Alan

Passed away peacefully, aged 81, at the Ottawa West Hospice on Saturday, March 19, 2016 after a long battle with cancer. Alan is survived by his children Mary-Anne, Steven, and Sandra (Chris). He will be missed dearly by Carol, his grandchildren Brooke and Tyler Carroll, siblings Bob (Kae), Roy (Mary), and Barbara Arbuckle (Bill), all of his nieces and nephews, and Charlene Ross.

Alan was born in London, Ontario where he grew up and developed his musical talents at an early age in the London Police Boys Band followed by the London Tech Band. At the age of 18, he joined the RCMP and was able to continue his love of music as a French horn player in the RCMP Band. He married Carol (Surbeck) and the family settled in Ramsayville, ON. Later in life, he enjoyed homes in Bob's Lake, Kirkland Lake and Ompah, then finally in Kanata. Alan was loved by all that met him. He was known for his kindness, deep appreciation for the simple things, and keen sense of humor which stayed with him until his last day.

Special thanks to Dr. Lisa Cross and the team at the Ottawa West Hospice for the exceptional care that was so gracefully bestowed to him, his family and friends in his last weeks, the Ottawa Integrative Cancer Centre for helping to keep him stronger and happier, the Ottawa General Hospital (Dr. Canil, Dr. Mahoney, Dr. Malone and all of the nursing staff) for their care over the many months, Roy and Mary for their frequent visits, unending support and home baked goodies that he loved so much, Claudette for helping at such a crucial time, Comfort Keepers (special thanks to Pearl) for their companionship and care. The family also wish to thank the staff and volunteers for their daily kindnesses at the Symphony Kanata and Embassy West residences. Friends and family are invited to gather in Ottawa for an Open House on Saturday, April 30 ^th , from 2-4pm at William's Court Kanata, 1175 Maritime Way, Room 103 (which can also be accessed via the Club House entrance at 1145 Maritime Way). This casual gathering is for all friends and family to enjoy food and drink while exchanging stories, so please come as you are for a visit. The family will gather in May for services in London, ON.

Donations in memory of Alan would be gratefully accepted by the Ottawa Integrative Cancer Centre (oicc.ca) and the Ottawa Hospice (hospicecareottawa.ca).