Harvey Birkman

Harvey F. Birkman passed away peacefully at the Avera Granite Falls Care Center on September 7th, 2023, he was 89 years old. Born 12/4/1933 in Mora, Minnesota to German parents (Harvey Sr. and Christine Kubat), he grew up on a farm with his siblings Lorraine (Phillip), Donald (Fay), and Jerry (Norma). Life on a small family farm instilled in Harvey a strong work ethic, an affinity for animals, skills in hunting and fishing, and an appreciation for cars. Across the street lived his grandmother who fed his sweet tooth with pies and cookies. Harvey left the farm after graduation to work on the Great Lakes barges before being called up for Army service during the Korean War. There, his exceptional math skills were put to use. After his Army service, Harvey proudly purchased his Oldsmobile Super 88. He met and married Darlene (deceased) and they had 6 children – Terry, Linda (Tom), Susan, Coleen, Thomas, and Barbara (Charlie). Harvey spent his career at American Can Company in Saint Paul and he drove his dream vehicle, a red Ford pickup truck. Later, Harvey settled in Granite Falls where he worked at the Firefly Casino and where he married Patricia. Together they raised their youngest daughter, Reina, who was the apple of Harvey’s eye. Harvey was known for his humble intelligence and amazing memory. He showed his love in a quiet but steady way, and he loved his coffee, French silk pie, and Western movies. Harvey’s very strong heart outlived all his siblings and his two sons, but he leaves behind a legacy of love – 5 daughters, 11 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren along with beloved extended family of Mitch (Colleen), Alan (Jane), Susie, and Connie, (Paul) with 9 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. As a proud veteran, Harvey will be buried at Fort Snelling National Cemetery with a military ceremony for family.