In life he lived for those he loved and those he loved remember.
‘‘Nec Aspera Terrent.’’
Obituary
In Loving Memory of Harvey Keith Park
August 3rd, 2024 – Passed away suddenly at his home in Portadown.
With heavy hearts and fond smiles, we remember Harvey, a dearly loved husband to Janice, beloved father of Ellie-Jayne, and much-loved stepfather of Louise and Victoria. He was a proud papa to Maisie, Freddie, Jamie, Olivia, Jack, Joel, Brooklyn, and Poppy. Cherished son of Keith and Jackie and the dearest brother of Stuart, Harvey was truly a family man with a heart of gold.
Harvey had a rare ability to make anyone laugh, lifting spirits wherever he went, often with a cheeky grin and a joke or two up his sleeve. His sense of humor was matched only by his kindness and generosity, making him unforgettable to all who knew him. Known for his Del Boy charm, he could find the humor in any situation, bringing warmth and light to our lives.
He took great pride in his service to the country, having served with honour in the King’s Regiment (Kingo), living by the motto “Nec Aspera Terrent” – “Difficulties Be Damned.” He was deeply proud of his time in the army, which shaped his resilience, loyalty, and character.
Whether on the football pitch, around a pool table, or surrounded by family, Harvey brought joy, laughter, and love. We will forever cherish the memories, and we couldn’t be prouder of all he achieved.
Harvey, you will be dearly missed but never forgotten. We know you’re up there cracking jokes, keeping an eye on us all, and still bringing joy to those around you.
Eulogy
Harvey truly excelled in sport, showing remarkable skill, dedication, and sportsmanship. His passion and hard work were evident in every sport he participated in, making his mum and me incredibly proud of his achievements.
An example of his determination was when he represented his school in the Wigan Schools’ 400 metres. Harvey was sitting with us in the stands when he realized his race was starting; he ran down, reported to the starter, and set off about 50 yards behind everyone. He still came in second, just behind the winner.
He played rugby league to a good standard, and his close friend from those days is Paul Rowley, the manager of Salford Rugby League Club.
He played football from an early age, and at around 8 years old, Harvey won a free holiday at Butlins. If my memory serves me right, it was in a national Daily Mail skills competition.
When he was 10, on holiday in Corfu, the national Greek soccer team saw him with a ball and invited him to join in for a kickabout.
At 12, Harvey won “Player of the Tournament” abroad in a large multinational European football competition.
At 15, his team won the Lancashire Under-16s Cup. The prize for winning was a game at United’s training ground against the Class of ’92.
We constantly had clubs asking for his signature. He signed for Wigan Athletic and was doing well, but, typically, Harvey left because he didn’t like the manager.
A team from Uruguay wanted to sign him. He refused offers from Bolton Wanderers and Manchester City, as he was a Manchester United supporter.
Eventually, he signed for Blackburn Rovers and was doing well, but true to form, Harvey set his sights on joining the army, where he represented his regiment.
He was also a very good golfer and an exceptionally skilled pool and snooker player.
Harvey had it all. We are deeply proud of our son and all he has achieved in life..
Timeline
Gallery
Videos
Memory wall
Wasn't nearly enough
To pack in an entire
Lifetime of love.
There are so many questions
That I need answers to,
But now that you're gone
There's no way to ask you.
But there are still photos
To remember you by,
Each time I look at them,
I still want to cry.
They say grief is easier
to bear as time goes by,
But the doesn't stop me
from wondering why?
Why my dear, sweet dad
Was taken so soon,
When he was my guiding star,
My sun and my moon.
There are no answers
To a question like this,
So I'll cherish your memory,
And mourn the years we'll miss.
Dad, words can’t describe how much I miss you, as time goes on, the pain doesn’t go away. I love you to the moon and back, save me a seat up there right next to you, see you soon🩵
I have such lovely memories of you growing up as a child, ones that I will cherish and never ever forget them.
I'm soso proud of everything you have done and acheived in your life. You turned into a loving and supportive young man, a beautiful soul...it breaks my heart but know you are safe with your hero Grandad, my 2 heroes. Love you both
Auntie Sue
The first time that I ever saw you was when you were a little 4 year old boy stood on your daddy's doorstep waving to me. Those big brown eyes and that cheeky smile melted my heart. Such a cute little boy who grew up to be a great family man. A tower of strength for your brother Stuart, wonderful son to Keith and Jac and a great husband, dad and grandad to your lovely family in Ireland.
We will all miss you so much Harvey. Hope you have met up with all the family up there.
Night night and god bless for now 🥰
Love from Auntie Helen, Uncle Tony, Catherine, Laura and Carter xx
I remember you from meeting you at your Dads and Mums house near the Foundry and then going round Bedford having a few pints when you was older.
Rest in peace my friend XXX
I do remember on one occassion you came to our house. I thought this is great we’re meeting Ellie’s dad. Only to find out that you were all there to watch a Manchester United match. I just thought “oh no not another one”. Anyway Harvey be assured your precious gems are safe with me.
A shattering loss, sharp and true.
The world stood still, a heavy hush, As sorrow painted all in a hush.
The beat that once held me near, Fell silent, leaving echoes here.
In that instant, my heart grew cold, A fragile piece of love untold.
Forever broken, yet I carry on,
Holding his memory as days stretch long.
For when his heart stopped, mine was torn,
A wound that aches, forever worn.
Miss you for ever j xx
I miss you so much my life has totally changed without you I am lost you were my rock my soul mate my life I love you so much J xx
God bless until we meet again. 💔💔