Harvey Mason Obituary

GENEVA - In Loving Memory of Harvey Mason Jr. October 31, 1937 – June 29, 2025. It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Harvey Mason Jr., a cherished member of the Seneca Lake community and lifelong enthusiast of all things nautical. Harvey passed away peacefully on June 29, 2025, at the age of 87, leaving behind a legacy of adventure, creativity, faith, service, and devotion to family.

Born on October 31, 1937, Harvey grew up in Millburn, New Jersey, graduating from Millburn High School in 1955, where he was active in the Biology Club, the tennis team, the ping pong team, and the Boy's Glee Club-reflecting his vibrant energy, wide-ranging interests, and early love of music.

A true showman, as a young man, Harvey organized thrilling waterski shows with daring jumps and stunts-such as pulling nine girls behind a single boat-delighting crowds with his fearless spirit. His inventive nature led him to craft his own homemade water skis, reflecting his hands-on love of the sport.

After high school, Harvey attended Lehigh University, where he studied engineering. He met Diane Lysbeth Grover, a beautiful and brilliant chemistry student from Rutgers University, when they both interviewed for the same position at Stevens Institute. Though only one position was offered, their talents impressed so greatly that both were hired-a serendipitous start to a spirited partnership and a love that would last a lifetime. Harvey and Diane were married on December 22, 1962, and shared over 51 years of love, laughter, and adventure until Diane's passing in 2014.

Harvey honorably served in the New Jersey Army National Guard for 16 years, achieving the rank of First Lieutenant and serving through significant moments, including the Newark Riots, exemplifying dedication, patriotism, and leadership in service to his country.

Professionally, Harvey built a remarkable career with his engineering skills at Bell Labs, AT&T, and Lucent Technologies, where his innovative spirit and technical expertise contributed to groundbreaking advances in telecommunications. His work ethic, curiosity, and commitment to excellence left an enduring mark on his colleagues and the industry.

Harvey's passion for flight led him to earn his private pilot's license; he delighted in flying with his flying club and sharing the joy of soaring above the clouds with his family. His love for the water was equally boundless. At Lake Wallenpaupack, he raced his family's beloved Comet sailboat, skippered his Penn Yan runabout, and later cherished time aboard his boats Red Rover and Serenity on Seneca Lake.

Beyond the water and sky, Harvey was devoted to his community. He volunteered his time at the Matheny School, where he repaired wheelchairs for children and adults with special needs, bringing mobility and hope to countless families. His kindness, eternal optimism, and generosity touched everyone he met.

Harvey was a devoted member of the Presbyterian Church in Liberty Corner, New Jersey, where he served as Deacon and sang joyfully in the men's choir. His faith guided his life and inspired those around him.

He found peace and joy in New Castle, New Hampshire, where he and Diane created treasured family memories by the sea. Harvey's love for cars-especially restoring and repairing them-was matched only by his delight in piano music, a passion he shared with his grandchildren, who adored their musical moments together.

He was known for his abundant optimism, warm heart, infectious laugh, generous spirit, and adventurous soul. Harvey is survived by his loving daughter, Kristin (Preston) Garretson; and his cherished sister, Carol (William) Robinson. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Diane; his father Harvey Mason Sr.; and his mother Mary Flanagan Mason. Harvey is also survived by his adopted son, Benjamin, who declared his independence at an early age.

A private celebration of Harvey's life will be held on the Piscataqua River, followed by a gathering in New Castle, New Hampshire. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his name to the West Lake Road Fire Association in Geneva, N.Y., or the Wounded Warrior Project, to help inspire future generations with the same spirit of service and resilience Harvey embodied.

Though the waves on Seneca Lake and Lake Wallenpaupack will be a little quieter without him, Harvey's passion, creativity, and unwavering kindness will continue to ripple through every boat wake, hymn, and sunset sail shared in his memory.

For those wishing to write a note of condolence to the family, please visit www.devaneybennettfh.com