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Shrine of Remembrance

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Harvey Visnaw Obituary

Beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather passed away March 7 at home in Colorado Springs at the age of 87. Harvey was born May 4, 1924, in Flint, Michigan to the late Grace (Trombley) and Joseph Medric Vezina. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and Korea, and in the Air National Guard and Navy SeaBees during Vietnam. After 38 years of service to his country, he retired in 1984. Harvey married Tula Barnett, his sweetheart for almost 60 years, on May 3, 1952 in Saginaw, Michigan. Besides his wife, he is survived by his children, Betty Jane (Wayne) Davis of South Carolina, Melba Monica (Kenneth) Drew of Michigan, Harvey James (Cindy) Visnaw Jr. of Texas, and Cheryl Ann (Brian) Paterson of Colorado Springs; seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; sister, Kathryn Karpuk and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his siblings, Cecelia Lambert, Virginia Wade, Joseph Alfred Visnaw, Clifford Visnaw, Phillip Visnaw, Arthur Visnaw, Mary Farrand and Daniel Visnaw. Harvey touched the lives of many people with his caring heart and his desire to help anyone in need. He will be remembered for his devotion to his country, his family and his friends. A visitation will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, March 12, 2012 at the Shrine of Remembrance Funeral Home. Funeral services will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 13, 2012 at the Shrine of Remembrance "America the Beautiful" Chapel with visitation also one hour prior. Rev. Don Needham will officiate. Luncheon will follow services at Woodman Valley Chapel, Rockrimmon Campus Community Center Gymnasium, 290 East Woodmen Road. Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday at Fort Logan National Cemetery, Staging area "A." In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Prison Fellowship, www.prisonfellowship.org. Online condolences: shrineofremembrance.com

Published by The Gazette on Mar. 11, 2012.
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Memories and Condolences
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We think of you often. Miss you, your sense of humor and kind heart. Mom misses you. Love you. Forever in our hearts and minds.

Deanna

Family

March 3, 2023

Honey, it has been two years since you good, helping and comforting me daily. went home to be with Jesus. I still miss you very much. God has been so good. I depend on Him more than I ever have. He is my strength, protector, companion, guide, passenger when on the road, really my everything--all I need. I'm so thankful you are free from sickness and the problems of this world. God is still in control and His will, He will accomplish. The family is good to me and a big help. I appreciate each one very much. I will be happy when Jesus comes and we can be together again forever and ever. Until then you will always be in my heart. Your loving wife, Tula

Tula Visnaw

March 24, 2014

Dad,
It will be 2 years this coming Friday that you have been gone from us. I can't believe that the time has gone so quickly. I miss you so much Dad. There are so many times when I wish I could just here you call my name or pick up the phone and you would be there.
Brian played a song last weekend in the car and it was the one from your funeral, I cried like a baby and the tears wouldn't stop.
I thought you would always be with us. I always thought it happens to other families but not ours and then it happened and my heart broke. I miss you Daddy.
I found this the other day and thought this is how I feel and I know Mom feels the same.
The moment that you died my heart was torn in two, one side filled with heartache, the other died with you.
I often lie awake at night, when the world is fast asleep, and take a walk down memory lane, with tears upon my cheeks.
Remembering you is easy, I do it everyday, but missing you is heartache that never goes away.
I hold you tightly within my heart and there you will remain. Until the joyous day arrives, That we will meet again.
We love you Daddy and miss you with all our hearts. I will never forget our trip to North Platte and Mount Rushmore that October before you passed away in March.
As tears roll down my cheeks and my heart aches, I promise I will think of you everyday and never forget you. We will always take care of Mom and be there for her always.

I love you and miss you,
Cheryl Ann (Visnaw) Paterson

Cheryl Paterson

March 1, 2014

Honey,
It will soon be twenty-two months since you left us. It seems so much longer. I miss you so very much. I keep busy making the little dresses and boys shorts. Another batch will go out next month (50 dresses-i7 shorts). So thankful I can be useful for Jesus and help someone else. It is a privilege and a big help to me to pass the time. Little Sinnamon and I make it together. She is so sweet. You would love her. I miss our little Taco and my sweetheart. I'm waiting for that glad reunion day when we meet again around God's throne. What a day that will be!! Many ask about you at our Military breakfast and meeting. They miss you too. I will always keep you in my heart. Your loving wife, Tula

Tula Visnaw

December 28, 2013

Tula Visnaw

December 28, 2013

I miss you so much Dad. Merry Christmas. We will be going to Denver soon.

Your youngest daughter,
Cheryl Ann

Cheryl Paterson

December 26, 2013

Daddy,
Merry Christmas, it just doesn't seem right with out you here with us all. Mom and I went to Ft. Logan and put a very pretty Christmas Blanket on your grave. Two candles that are on from dusk to dawn.
My thoughts were with you all day. No matter what we do or say there seems to be an empty void. No Christmas story was read, no Dad sitting their in his chair at home. No Dad at my table for Dinner. Every time I think about it, I just can't believe your gone.
Mom misses you so Dad. She was with us today at our house for Christmas and she did good, but she has a void also that is much harder. When I took her home tonight I looked at your chair and wished you were there. I went into your closet (which I always do)and held some of your shirts and my eyes filled with tears, my heart is still broken and I miss you.
Merry Christmas Dad.
Love You Forever,
Cheryl Ann

Cheryl Paterson

December 26, 2013

Papa, this is my first time seeing this guest book. I love reading all the great things everyone has to say about you. You were an incredible man and taught me so many life lessons. I will never forget our times spent together. There isn't a day that passes that Will and I don't think of you. You would be so proud of him, he became a United State's Marine last year. We got married December 7th last year. I'm so happy you were still apart of our big day and was able to walk me down the aisle even if it was in spirit and with your picture. I visit the WWII memorial often here in D.C. it is my place to pay my respects to you. I wish you could have seen it, it is perfect and so beautiful. You would have loved it. Will went to a training school in Fort Leonardwood Mo where the Seabees train now. It was meant to be. I love you papa and will never forget you!
Brooke Trout

Brooke Antczak

December 9, 2013

Honey,
It will soon be Eighteen months since you went home to be with Jesus. Our Heavenly Father is who keeps me going knowing one of these days we will meet again. I miss you so very much. Not a minute goes by you are not on my mind. I have a new puppy thanks to our great grandchildren. Little Taco went to doggie Heaven. Had a stroke. I had to have him put to sleep. That was hard. Little Sinnamon is six months old and a busy little girl. I love her like we loved Taco. We go to your grave often. It is very peaceful just to sit by your stone and think of the memories. I will always love and miss you. Your loving wife, Tula

Tula Visnaw

August 22, 2013

Thinking of you often. We all miss you. Forever in our hearts. Love you Uncle Harvey

Deanna Bennett

March 12, 2013

I love you Dad. Always and Forever.

Cheryl Paterson

March 8, 2013

March 8, 2013

March 8, 2013

March 8, 2013

March 8, 2013

March 8, 2013

March 8, 2013

A year ago yesterday you left us and went home to be with the Lord. Their are so many times Daddy when I'm at your house that I hear your voice and I can almost see you sitting in your chair.
Brian, saved the last phone message from you that you left on our phone. He put it on my computer and I listen to it often so I can hear your voice.
I took Mom up to Ft. Logan today Dad and she misses you so. She finds comfort and feels close to you, even though we know you are not there, just your body. She still likes to go up and so do I. We will always go up and keep flowers on your grave. Daddy you are up there with all your buddy's and on top of a hill and so many people come there to see their loved ones and the flowers are beautiful all year long.
I miss you so much, I wish that I could just sit and hold your hand again and ask you "what do you think about this Dad". You always would tell me. So many thoughts go through my head everyday Dad. I will always remember our last trip you and I and Mom took to North Platte, NE in Oct. of 2011. You always wanted to go there and you were going to make sure you made it before you left this earth and you did. I will cherish that trip and that time with you and Mom always, it was the BEST EVER. Mom and I talked about it today, good good memories even though you ended up in the hospital in Rapid City when we went on to Mt. Rushmore. I will remember that little town we stopped in and you and I went in that little store to go to the restroom and saw that funny little sign and looked at each other and laughed so hard.
Daddy I miss you so much, sometimes the tears just don't stop and I wonder why but you don't hurt any more and God saw that it was time to call you home. You touched a lot of people and helped many. Through the good and bad times Dad I will always be thankful that I got to spend almost my whole life close to you and Mom. There are a lot of good memories and I will never forget them. I very thankful that Mike and Danny had you to look up to and help them as they grew up. Dad, you are missed and I love you with all my heart and I will never go a day without thinking of you.
I will see you again someday Dad in Heaven. Until then "rest in peace" I love and miss you.
Cheri (Cheryl-Youngest Daughter) Paterson-Visnaw

Cheryl Paterson

March 8, 2013

What a mighty God we serve! Today it has been one year since you went home to Heaven. The flood of tears I have shed have been tears of joy knowing where you are, memories of our fifty-nine years, ten months, three days and twenty hours together. I love and miss you so very much. There have been many times when i just wanted to sit and talk with you or ask questions about needs around the home. You were so good at taking care of things. I thank God for our family. They are here for me and deeply appreciated. We visit your grave often, not because you are there, but because it is such a beautiful place. We all are so thank-
ful to have placed you upon a hill like you wanted. God was faithful in providing your desires. One of these days Sweetheart, Jesus is coming and we will be reunited. Until then--you will in my heart and thoughts. Through it all, through it all I've learned to trust in Jesus I've learned to trust in God. Through it all, through it all I've learned to depend upon His word.
Your loving wife, Tula

Tula Visnaw

March 7, 2013

A year ago today...wow! I remember exactly where i was and what i was doing when i got the call. Love and miss you very much Papa! Forever in our hearts and minds!!! Danny, Ginny and Kaydin

Daniel Wagner

March 7, 2013

Dad, we miss you very much but know you are at peace and not suffering. I always tell Harvey "our dads are the angels that will always have their arms around us." "Somebody had to open the gates for our families and our dads were always the leaders." That keeps us safe! Love You, Cindy

March 6, 2013

Daddy, to say you are missed is an understatement. During the past year, I have heard your voice and your laugh in my mind so many times. You were a wonderful teacher for me and so many others, exposing us to a myriad of places and experiences. Your caring heart led you to give a helping hand to many, and you never met a stranger. Whenever I am sad, because you are no longer with us, I think of where you are and smile. You're with Jesus -- healthy, strong, happy -- and I will see you again! With much love, Monie xoxo

Melba (daughter) Drew

March 5, 2013

Dad, to say "you are missed" would be an understatement. During the past year, I have heard your voice and your laugh in my mind so many times. You were a good teacher, exposing us to a myriad of experiences and places. You never met a stranger, and you cared about people -- things I'll never forget. When I am sad because you are no longer with us, I immediately think of where you are, and my sadness is replaced with a smile. I know you are with Jesus -- healthy, strong, happy --and I will see you again! With love, Monie xoxo

Melba (daughter) Drew

March 5, 2013

Mr. Harvey we miss you so much! The neighborhood just isn't the same without you. So honored to know you and inspired by everything you accomplished on this earth. You have touched so many people and we thank you. God bless.

The neighbors on Swope

March 5, 2013

Papa,
Thank you for all the great lessons, all the great laughs and all the great memories. I am thankful for all of the time that we got to spend together, and I appreciate all of the things that you taught me. We miss you, but your legacy is still with us every single day.

Mike Wagner

March 4, 2013

It's hard to believe it has been a year. I think of you often. I have so many wonderful memories of you, being crazy a lot of times. You were so funny. I will always have the utmost respect for your service and for the man that you were. The best example of morals, work ethic and character. One of the most giving people I have ever met. You did so much to help so many people. We all miss you greatly. I will never forget how you came to visit me in basic training and to my graduation. It meant so much to me. I love you Uncle Harvey and will never forget you.

Deanna Bennett

February 25, 2013

It's been almost a year since you left us and you are greatly missed of course. You are the best uncle and father figure I ever had. You were and are a great role model for me a many others. I cherish all my great memories with you & look forward to being with you again in heaven one day. I love you Uncle Harvey.

Joe Karpuk

February 24, 2013

Harvey,
Its hard to believe that its been almost a year! Celebrating a life well lived, your Family and Friends will cherish the memories forever.
Your Friend, Rose

Rose Read

February 24, 2013

Lots of Memories, we miss you Dad. Forever in our Hearts

Brian & Cheryl Paterson

February 7, 2013

Daddy,
It is Feb. 7th, 2013 today. It has been 11 months today that you have been gone. Very hard to believe that your really gone from us. This whole week has been very sad for me. I miss you so much, their are times that I wish I could just set and hold your hand and talk with you awhile, or go get you some soup or a sandwich that you liked from Panera. We go over to see Mom or help her with something and I see you everywhere Dad. Their are so many times that I hear your voice. Your chair in the basement by the fireplace...I still see you and hear you every time I walk in through the back door. Daddy, we will never forget you ever. I'm taking Mom up to Ft. Logan tomorrow and I hope we can put your light back on your grave. I thank God Dad that you don't have to hurt anymore and your with our heavenly father now and in no more pain.
We all miss you, Mom misses you so much, we love you Daddy.
Cheryl Ann Paterson (Visnaw)
Your youngest Daughter

Cheryl Paterson

February 7, 2013

Kata Duric

December 1, 2012

He was always a character and always smiling. he is missed. Rest in peace!

Paul Lambert

September 11, 2012

Many, many Memories of Brother Visnaw. He was my royal ranger Leader when I was a boy in flint, Michigan.I grew up under him and he taught me alot about discipline. I will always remember those times and his direction in my life.

Mark Reagan

May 20, 2012

This pictures brings back so many memories. Some I don't think I've thought of in 30 years. Like dinner on Sundays at the Visnaws. Dinner with Harvey at the head of the table was an experience for sure. I had to eat with one on him and one on my food. He loved making me jumpy. lol I sure miss those days with your family. You will be remembered by many with fond memories. Much love

Carol Hanson

April 19, 2012

Today is 6 weeks that you have been gone and I miss you so much. Mom misses you even more, she cries alot and wishes you were still here. It just doesn't seem right. We love you Daddy and you are in our hearts and thoughts everyday, you will never be forgotten. I love you.

Cheryl Paterson

April 19, 2012

Cheryl you and your family continue to be in our prayers. I am so very thankful for all the wonderful years of friendship that we shared with your parents. I guess I'll have to wait til I get to heaven to get my fish from your dad!

Love,
Cyndi and Corney

Cyndi Llorens

March 19, 2012

Rest in peace Uncle Harvey. You will be missed by all.

Jennifer Torrey(Barrera)

March 16, 2012

Daddy, We layed you to rest today at Ft. Logan, what a beauitful place you are. Up on the top of the hill was just perfect. We miss you so much and love you forever. Your family (Cheryl - Daddy's Little Girl)

Cheryl Paterson

March 14, 2012

I posted a message on 3/12 regarding a visit during basic training. I missed the part where I should have entered my name. Uncle Harvey you were an inspiration and will forever be in my heart. RIP

Deanna Bennett

March 13, 2012

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998

Hazel & Harolyn

March 12, 2012

I will never forget how he made us all laugh, so loud & boisterous. In 1984 when I was in the first weeks of basic training at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, he came to visit. Not just anyone can visit a new airman in basic training. But that was Uncle Harvey. I didn't know why I was being called to the first seargents office, I thought I was in trouble for something. I was still so new to the Air Force, I was so scared. When I went into the office I heard his voice before I saw him. I burst into tears! It was so wonderful to see him at such a stressful time in my life. It was hard to let him go that day, but it helped me get through it! He & Aunt Kitty were the only family members at my graduation from basic training. I am so thankful he was a part of my life. This is just one example of his love & thoughtfulness. He was always on the move bright & early and worked so hard helping so many. He will be remembered forever in our hearts.

March 12, 2012

Rest in eternal peace Mr. Harvey, we will miss you!

Terri Neeley

March 12, 2012

To Cheryl and my other family. I am so sorry I can't be with you in a physical way these dark hard days, but my heart, mind and spirit are there. You know I've been down that road you're now on and it is not a smooth one to travel, It's not easy but it does get a little bit bareable as the years go by. Just keep GOD in your heart and he will bring you through it all. He has ya'll wraped in his arms. DAD will be missed! I Love You!!!
Your sis, Hazel :(

Hazel Hardin

March 12, 2012

I don't even know where to begin. I could go on forever. A part of my heart is missing. I am glad though that his pain is over, and he is in a much better place. My Grandfather was a huge part of my life. All of my learning years growing up were spent with him, and I don't even know how to begin to express my gratitude for this. He was a man with infinite knowledge, and I was a lucky recipient. He taught me everything; from all the small things to the lifelong lessons, respect, and morals that he instilled in me. I thank him for all these things, as I know he is watching me pass all of those things to my children. I miss him already. Time will help the pain. I will carry him with me the rest of my life, and continue to make him proud. I love you dearly Papa. You will never be forgotten, and I am more than proud to call you my Grandfather…always have been. Like they say…it's not goodbye it's see you later. I will be your store-man once again someday. Love you!!!

Danny Wagner

March 11, 2012

During the time that Harvey worked for The Home Depot he was admired by many of his fellow associates. We loved that even after he left the firm he and his constant companion 'Taco' would still come to visit us. His passing has saddened many of us. We hope that his family will be comforted to know that he was loved by many.

Gena Miller

March 11, 2012

Daddy,
Everyday that you have been gone, my heart breaks. I miss you so much. I wish I could here your voice again. I know that God was ready to take you home and now you don't hurt anymore. You're up in Heaven now and looking down on us and want all of us to be ready to be with you again someday. We have had some hard times but so many good times and I will Cherish them Forever. I will never forget our Last Trip to North Platte, NE, What a Great Time We Had: You, Mom, Taco and I.
Daddy, I'll always remember what you taught me as a child. I will remember our talks, our times on the patio "having alittle something", you and I know what that was. All of our times we just went for a ride.
Daddy, I'm so glad that I have been with you and Mom almost all my life, . All the times you were in the hospital and Mom and I were right there with you the whole time and each time God was so good and brought you through.
Last Monday night I sat with you on the bed and said "I love you Daddy so much" and you answered back "I love you to Honey" and that was your last words to me. I will see you again someday Daddy in Heaven. There will not be one day that I don't think of you. You will always be in the heart.
Daddy's Little Girl
Cheryl Ann

Cheryl Paterson - Visnaw

March 11, 2012

Harvey was such a nice man who could always make us laugh. We will miss seeing him in the neighborhood.

Rob, Jean, Laurel, Amanda Barrett

March 11, 2012

Harvey was a big part of our childhood at Trinity Assembly of God in Flint, Michigan. During those years in Michigan, a friendship between the Visnaws and my folks occurred and time spent visiting with them will never be forgotten. May God comfort the family during this time of loss. Our prayers are with you all.

Stacey (Patnode) Collins

March 11, 2012

Harvey Jr., I want you to know that I am very sorry to hear about your Dad. We do appreciate the service he did for our Country.
Sincerely,
Brian McLeroy

March 10, 2012

Uncle Harvey was an awesome individual. Always laughed,and made others laugh. He will be missed, but not forgotton.

Paul Lambert

March 9, 2012

My grandfather was on harvey ship when they were in the navy .... harvey was my pops best friend and he charished him soooo much and his beautiful wife... I will always remember him coming to vist us in sc when i was a child he will be missed dearly ... Tommy walker Nadean walker and family, Chesnee,SC)

Arieal Eubanks

March 9, 2012

Mr. Harvey will be missed so much. The neighborhood will not be the same. It has been such an honor to know him. Our thoughts are prayers our with you. God Bless.

Nate, Jo and Gabby

March 9, 2012

Aunt Kitty & Family,
I am so sorry about the loss of Uncle Harvey.
Words can never express how bad I feel for you all. I know how much he meant to all of you, as well as all of us. I can't begin to tell you how bad the pain in my heart is, but I know you are all feeling the same.
You will all be in my thoughts and prayers. My love and support will always be here for you. I love you all dearly and know God will be right by your sides.

Dawn Karpuk-Rivera

March 9, 2012

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