In Loving Memory of Harvey John Gascon Jr.
September 22, 1939 – October 3, 2025
Harvey John Gascon Jr., age 86, of Huntley, Illinois, died peacefully on October 3, 2025.
Born September 22, 1939, in Chicago to Esther Onerva Lindfors and Harvey Gascon Sr., Harvey spent his childhood riding along on summer delivery runs with his father, who worked for Borden’s Milk Company for many years. His mother, Esther, was the heart of their home and beloved for her Finnish pulla bread, a recipe that remains a family holiday tradition. Harvey graduated from Steinmetz High School in 1957 and served proudly in the United States Marine Corps from 1958 to 1961, stationed in California, Hawaii, and Virginia.
Harvey is survived by his wife, Rita, to whom he was married for 63 years. They met at The Hub Roller Rink soon after his return from the Marine Corps in 1961 and were married at St. William Catholic Church in Chicago on September 22, 1962. Together they raised four children in Elk Grove Village and treasured summers at their Lake Wisconsin home. A dedicated worker, Harvey spent 23 years at Paddock Publications with the Daily Herald and then enjoyed nine years with Todd Transit before retiring. In retirement the couple made their home in Huntley, spending many happy years traveling, motorcycling, and sharing time with friends and family.
Harvey is also survived by his son Kenneth Gascon (Carolyn); son Brian Gascon; daughter Melissa Woods (Paul); brother Alan Gascon (Pat); grandchildren Jonathon Gascon (Natalie), Michael Gascon, Allison Gascon, Sarah Gascon, Kevin Gascon, David Woods, and Emily Woods; and his dog Peewee. He is preceded in death by his beloved son Kevin Gascon; parents Esther and Harvey Gascon Sr.; and brother Bill Gascon.
Harvey will be remembered as a loving and devoted husband. He was known for his steady presence, warm sense of humor, and love of the open road. In the last several years he devoted himself to caring full-time for his wife Rita as she lived with dementia, a final chapter that reflected their lifelong partnership.
Services will be held at a future date; details will be shared when arranged. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to a dementia care or caregiver support organization of your choice.
Harvey’s quiet strength, devotion to Rita, and love of family and friends will be remembered by all who knew him.
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