Debra Lynn Harvey

Debra Lynn Harvey, 59, of Traverse City went to be with the Lord March 1, 2021 at Munson Medical Center. Deb was born on May 26, 1961 in Detroit, Michigan. She was proudly raised by her Grandmother, Dorothy Ferres in Kingsley Michigan. On May 24, 1980 she married John Harvey in Traverse City and together they raised two wonderful children, Christina and Shane. Deb loved to cook and bake for her family and friends, a talent she was very good at! She had a true servant’s heart and her family joked that she cooked as though she worked at a summer camp. There were always plenty of leftovers to share with everyone. Christmas was Deb’s favorite. Her goodie tray was legendary. The house could never have too many Christmas decorations and she was thoughtful in her gift giving. She had a desire to make her family feel truly special. Family memories were important to Deb. One of her favorite places to travel was to Grand Marais, MI to celebrate the 4th of July. She loved having that special time with John, her kids and granddaughters. Family and friends would describe Deb as a warrior. She fought every health battle that came her way with strength and positivity. The last several years were a challenge. Deb courageously defeated cancer. She rallied after open heart surgery all while dealing with her ongoing battle against Crohns disease. Despite all of the struggles, she was always there for her family and community. You would find her on the sidelines of the soccer field, cheering loudly at a basketball game, or beaming with pride at a dance recital. She also spent many years as a volunteer at the Father Fred Foundation. Deb was an amazing Mom and Gammy. She adored her children and granddaughters. Surviving Deb is her husband John, daughter Christina (Matthew) Dickinson, son Shane Harvey, granddaughters, Madelyn and Isabelle, brother Jeff Stevens, father and mother-in-law James and Bertha Harvey, best friend Dawn Buckel, “surrogate” son Ted Groenevelt, many sister and brother-in-laws, nieces, nephews and countless friends. Deb is preceded in death by her grandmother Dorothy. Deb’s family would like to thank everyone at Munson Medical Center for all the support over the years. From nurses, rehab, home health, the entire Munson Family - we appreciate you! A special thank you to Dr. Tooley, Dr. J.P. Milliken and Dr. Gorman for never giving up on Deb. Your care and support of our family will be something we will always remember. Per Deb’s wishes, her family will be taking a vacation to celebrate her life. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Father Fred Foundation or the Children’s Advocacy Center. Kindly share thoughts and memories with her family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.

Debra Lynn Harvey

May 26, 1961 - March 1, 2021