Forrest "Harv" Harvey Townley

Forrest Harvey “Harv” Townley passed away peacefully on April 6, 2022. Harv was born at home in Independence, Missouri on February 5, 1935, to Forrest Calland Townley and Nellie Pearl Daugherty Townley.

Harv was involved in many activities while growing up with his favorite being the Boy Scouts. He mowed lawns to earn money to go to Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico and became an Eagle Scout in 1954.

Harv’s career was in sales and management. This vocation suited him perfectly because he thrived on learning from the people he met and building on those relationships. He was known for his honesty and integrity.

As a faithful follower of Jesus Christ, Harv served in numerous ministries of the churches he attended. These churches included Independence Blvd Christian Church, South Run Baptist Church and Bella Vista Community Church, each located in different states where he lived.

Harv loved the Lord, family and friends. As a young boy, he enjoyed various sports including baseball, basketball, football, swimming, water skiing and golf.  He coached Little League Baseball and believed it was important for every team member to play.  His interest in sports continued throughout his life.  He was a Chiefs fan from the time they won their AFL championship on January 1, 1967, their 1969 championship season, and through their Super Bowl championship fifty years later.

Harv had many hobbies/interests. He liked to renovate homes and work on his lawn and garden. He could tell a joke, weave a story, and had an exceptional mind for historical events, as well as a keen memory. In 1981, Harv joined the Ararat Shriners and was a member until his death. The great passion of his life was singing and he often dreamed of becoming a professional singer.  He was frequently requested to sing for weddings, funerals, and church services. For many years he enjoyed singing for the Declarations of Independence, a choral group in Kansas City.

Harv married Ruth Eichenberger in 1955, and they had two sons; Forrest Harvey Jr. and William “Bill” Alan.

Harv was preceded in death by Ruth, his parents and three sisters; Donna, Shirley, and DeeDee.

Harv is survived by his wife of 27 years, Kathy; sons, Harvey Jr. (Cynthia), Bill (Mary), stepdaughters, Kay Hubbard, Kristin (Mike) Kainu; 12 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Terrace Park Cemetery - Lakeside Chapel on Friday, March 31st, with visitation from 11am-11:30am, followed by the funeral service and reception.

Memorials may be made to Gideon's International and Shriners Hospital for Children.