Harvey Gabriel Genadek

July 9, 1937 – February 11, 2025

Port Charlotte, Florida

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Harvey Gabriel Genadek, 87, on February 11, 2025, in Port Charlotte, Florida, surrounded by his beloved family.

Born in Rutledge, Minnesota, on July 9, 1937, Harvey was the son of Stanley and Zofia (Dobozynski) Genadek. After graduating from Willow River High School in 1957, Harvey moved to Grand Marais, where he would begin a journey that would be marked by family, hard work, humor, and an uncanny ability to brighten any room he walked into.

Harvey spent a successful career as a business owner while also serving as a proud member of the Minnesota Highway Patrol. His career spanned decades, earning him several commendations and promotions, culminating in his retirement as Corporal in 1992. But perhaps his greatest achievement was his ability to make those around him laugh and feel seen. He had a way of making even the most mundane situations unforgettable with his humor and infectious energy.

In 1991, Harvey received a heart transplant at the University of Minnesota Hospitals, becoming the 278th person to undergo the procedure. That six-hour operation gave Harvey 33 extra years of memories with his family and friends, and he made every moment count. He often joked that the heart transplant was just a way to get a little more time to talk people's ears off — and boy, did he ever.

In 1988, Harvey married the love of his life, Susan (Manzer), and together they shared many adventures. After retiring, Harvey and Sue hit the road, traveling across the United States in their motorhome before deciding to settle into their winter home in Big Pine Key, Florida. In the Florida Keys, Harvey found peace and joy fishing, snorkeling, and living the "snowbird" life with his buddies. But above all, his greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren Ben, Ryann, and Erik and watching them grow up. He loved every second of it.

In 2016, Harvey and Sue made the move to Port Charlotte, Florida, where they continued to enjoy their golden years, building memories that would last a lifetime.

Harvey leaves behind his wife, Susan; children, Bradley (Michelle) Genadek, Teri (Don) Hiller, stepdaughter Kelly Eliasen; grandchildren, Benjamin Hiller, Ryann Stansberry, and Erik Stansberry; brother, Tom (Cyndy) Genadek, as well as many nieces and nephews who will all miss his infectious spirit.

Harvey is preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Zofia Genadek; siblings, Marie (Chuck) Haring, Lorayne (Wally) Conrad, Walt (Mary) Krieger, Ray Genadek, and stepson Pete Eliasen.

Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 PM on June 27, 2025, at Sunrise Funeral Home, 4798 Miller Trunk Highway in Hermantown, Minnesota. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Second Chance for Life Foundation at this link to Second Chance for Life.

As Harvey would always say with a wink and a smile: "Drive fast and reckless" So, we imagine he's already giving St. Peter a run for his money in the fast lane up there.

Rest easy, Harvey. You were a treasure to everyone who had the privilege of knowing you. You'll be missed — but never forgotten.