It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Harvey George Voth, at almost 81 years of age. He passed away peacefully, in his sleep, on September 8, 2016, at St. John’s Hospital in Vanderhoof, B.C.
On Sunday, September 18th, A Celebration of Life service was held at the Northside Church in honour of Harvey. Harvey’s life was celebrated by his children - Darrell Voth, Lloyd (Jacqueline) Voth, Bernice (Hans) Sturm, Alden (Colleen) Voth, Nathan (Debra) Voth, Helen “Ruth” Voth Funk & Nettie “Heather” (Chris) Voth, his 18 grandchildren, his 16 great grandchildren, his brothers - Rodney (Priscilla) Voth & Levi (Micki) Voth, as well as his numerous nieces, nephews, extended family & dear friends. Harvey was predeceased five weeks earlier by his loving wife of almost 60 years - Mary, his grandson - Anthony Voth, his sister - Georgia Howard, and his brother - Menno Voth.
Delivered by his father, at home in their farmhouse, Harvey George Voth was born near Altona, Manitoba, on December 8, 1935. He was the oldest of five children born to George and Aganetha Voth. Harvey grew up working alongside his father on the farm, in the metal working shop, and in the wood working shop. When he was 17 years old, his parents moved from Altona to property they had purchased at the end of Braeside Road in Vanderhoof, BC. Harvey stayed behind to finish his last year of high school and joined his family following graduation.
Harvey and Mary met on a double date and were married in the Braeside Sommerfeldter Church on September 16th, 1956. Harvey built their first house on Voth Road and in a few years he built their second home on a small farm on Braeside Road. They were blessed with seven children, many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Harvey and Mary were supportive parents who looked out for the interests of their children. In spite of busy workdays, very few business engagements could disrupt the family dinner, which was Harvey’s time with his family. He took time from his countless responsibilities to take his family on annual summer vacations.
In December of 1954, Harvey started his 24 year career as Assistant General Manager in the office of David Martens & Sons, a sawmill and planer mill which would later expand to become the Engen Division of Plateau Mills Ltd. Very important to Harvey were a common business philosophy and faith in God that he shared with Bill Martens.
A true entrepreneur, Harvey built an 8-plex in Vanderhoof in 1964 and managed them until his retirement. He also operated his own bookkeeping business for many years, and was well respected by his clients for his integrity and expertise.
Throughout Harvey’s life, he was actively involved in his church. He helped build the Gospel Chapel, and later donated the land for and helped build the Northside Church, where he served as an elder and treasurer for forty years.
Harvey was a man of action rather than words, and his actions displayed his dedication to serving God in his family life and his community. Harvey will be deeply missed.