Mr. Harvey Wideman

Harvey Morris Wideman passed away Thursday, 8/10/2017, surrounded by his loving family.

Harvey was born in Pontiac, MI to Russell and Naomi (Wilson) Wideman on 1/30/1937. He lived most of his life in Millington, Michigan with his loving companion of 33 years and fiancé, Kathy Moody, and his beloved pet, Ruby. Affectionately referred to as “Pops” or “Wallbanger” by anyone lucky enough to be in his company, Harvey was a man of many facets and enjoyed making people laugh as much as laughing himself. Later in life he gained the new nickname “Walter” as he bore a striking resemblance to ventriloquist Jeff Dunham’s character both in attitude and facial expression.

Harvey worked and retired from TDS as a telephone man after serving dutifully in the United States Army and United States Air Force. He was passionate in his continuing efforts to serve his country and fellow veterans as a member of Vassar Eagles, AMVETS (Honor Guard), American Legion (Color Guard) and was also a leader for the Millington Boy Scouts. He delighted in fishing, boating and most of all camping with his family. He was a Hecht’s corn-on-the-cob enthusiast and a fan of most things inappropriate and blushworthy. He participated, at one point, in a drag show to raise funds for a charity and sang with a barbershop quartet. No matter where Harvey was spotted whether on a crop-tour with best buddy, Jim Work, or among friends he was sure to be seen sipping a cold Pabst Blue Ribbon.

He left behind many people who are already feeling a Harvey-shaped hole in their heart, having always been an impressionable and commanding presence in any room.
He is survived by four adult children and their spouses: Wanda Watson (Tom), Roger Wideman (Yvonne), Wendy Thibeault (Tom) and Robert Wideman (Jennie); eight grandchildren: Jessica Riley (Dan), Sam Thibeault (Thera), Sara Wideman (Ethan Short), Nicholas Watson (Stephanie), Michael Watson, Jeffrey Wideman (Miranda Chinery), Eric Thibeault, Alex Wideman and seven great grandchildren: Emily, Caden, Liam, Jameson, Asher, Noah and Cardyn; as well as a brother, Everett Wideman.
He is preceded in death by the mother of their children, Jan Wideman, and Baby, his beloved furry companion of 17 years.There’s no one that was quite like Harvey in this life. His stories, smile and fondness for making the grumpiest faces will live on through all of his family and friends.

A memorial service honoring Harvey and celebrating his life will take place at the Eagles Club in Vassar, Michigan (651 State Road) on Saturday August 26, at 11:00 a.m. with lunch to follow. Hanlin Funeral Home in Millington; has been assisting the Wideman family. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations in Harvey’s honor to one of the following charitable foundations:

It Takes a Warrior – crisis response for local veterans in need
989-714-9290
http://ittakesawarrior.org/
ittakesawarrior@gmail.com

Travis Mills Foundation – formed to benefit and assist combat-injured veterans (Travis is a Vassar, MI native)
89 Water Street
Hallowell, ME 04347
https://www.travismills.org/about/

22KILL – non-profit that works to raise awareness of veteran suicide and other mental health issues such as PTS plaguing our veterans
22KILL HQ
13625 Neutron Rd.
Dallas, TX 75244
http://22kill.com

HANLIN FUNERAL HOME

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