Susan W. Harvey, 79, of Damariscotta, passed away on the evening of Sept. 1 at Miles Memorial Hospital in Damariscotta, with her children by her side. Born on Feb. 12, 1931 in Manhattan, N.Y., she was the daughter of Sidney and Margaret (Rupp) Harvey.
Susan grew up in Garden City, Long Island. She completed a double Bachelor of Science degree in 1956, in Occupational Therapy from the Boston School of Occupational Therapy, and Education from Tufts University. She worked as an occupational therapist for over 10 years before concentrating on raising her family. Later she enjoyed working in the library at National Cathedral School in Washington, D.C. and in the Washington Cathedral Greenhouse. As a young married woman, she lived in Washington state, then Maine, where she forged friendships and developed a love for the region that lasted the rest of her life. After moving to Massachusetts, then Maryland, it was always her dream to retire in Maine, which she did.
Susan was a very active woman who loved to travel and spend as much time as possible outdoors. She loved camping, hiking, gardening, biking, boating, swimming, tennis and many other outdoor activities. She was a true lover of nature. Other interests included reading, music, art and volunteering. Susan had a lifelong love of learning, and enjoyed helping others. She was involved in many social and volunteer activities. She had a strong faith and always enjoyed being actively involved with her church community.
Family was very important to Susan, and she made a point to stay in touch with her extended family and friends. She loved dogs and always had at least one in her life. Susan will be remembered by many for her loving nature, generosity, and whimsical spirit.
Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Stephen R. Harvey.
She is survived by son, Eric D. Pardo of Frederick, Md.; daughter, Virginia C. Pardo of Asheville, N.C.; sister, Mary “Polly” Dunn of Gwynedd, Penn.; grandson, Matthew Pardo of Frederick, Md.; a great-granddaughter; and many nieces and nephews.
Memorial service for Susan 3 p.m., Tues., Sept. 7 at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Newcastle. A reception will follow at the church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CHIP, P.O. Box 6, New Harbor, ME 04554; the Damariscotta River Association, 110 Belvedere Rd., Damariscotta, ME 04543; or to the Ecumenical Food Pantry, P.O. Box 46, Newcastle, ME 04553.
Condolences for the family may be expressed by visiting www.StrongHancock.com.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta.
