Harvey Hoeck

Harvey Hoeck, 89, a long-time Wheatland, WY resident, died on May 25, after a brief illness following the death of Phyllis Hoeck, in February of this year. Harvey & Phyllis were married for over 59 years. Harvey is preceded in death by 1 brother, Archie & 2 sisters, Alma & Annabelle, a daughter, Brenda Hoeck, great granddaughter, Kadie Jo Wilcox. He is survived by his children, Greg, Deb & Theresa Hoeck, brother, Earl Hoeck of Dorchester, WI, sisters Mary, Lorraine, Louisa, Grace, Pauline & Joan, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, 4 grandchildren & 2 great grandsons. Harvey grew up in Medford, WI, was a World War II Veteran in the Army/Air Force (before they split into two different military branches), spent years in the military until he met Phyllis at Sky Sox Stadium in Colorado Springs, CO when his fate was sealed. The week he died, when asked what he did for a living he replied, "It would be easier to tell you what I haven't done", which would be the honest truth. Harvey told the family, ?I worked for the U.S. Forest Service as a Dispatcher at the Ranger Station. It was the best job I ever had.? Harvey taught and led by example. He believed in a good education. On many subjects he was self-educated but Harvey earned his Associates in Science at age 65 while working to support the family. He always said, "Education is something no one can ever take away from you." Harvey was an avid reader throughout his whole life. In later years he had an online bible bookmarked because it was easier to read the larger type, reading daily. Harvey loved the fact that he served his country for years. Harvey identified with the word Patriot. Having traveled a lot in the service, during and after World War II, he realized how great a country he was protecting. Harvey was proud of the fact that he was a paratrooper. He spent time in several areas of our world and told many stories of his travels and experiences. He spoke German quite well with some relatives in Wisconsin. He was an accomplished musician although he could barely read music. He played a small button accordion he purchased from a catalog when he was rather young. He also played guitar, keyboards, bugle, harmonica, and violin. Harvey could sing, tell jokes, tell stories, and spread his charm and gift of joy to all who met him. Harvey wishes to go on the record stating, "I accept Jesus as my Savior." Everyone loved Harvey and Phyllis who in time became synonymous and each complimenting the other. Their lives and commitment to each other were the benchmark for everyone to witness and much more noteworthy than facts and dates.