Kenneth Dale “Ken” Harvey, 76, of Fayette passed away on Friday, January 31, 2025 at Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital following a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Boonville, MO on September 2, 1948, to Harrell and Valeria (Rulle) Harvey.

Ken grew up in New Franklin, MO and was a graduate of New Franklin High School.  Following graduation, Ken worked on his father’s farm until he was drafted in June 1968.  Following basic training, he received his orders for Vietnam in November 1968 and was assigned to A Company, 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division with areas of responsibilities as a machine gunner and point man.  During his time in Vietnam, his platoon was involved in the ten-day battle of Hamburger Hill. For his service to our country, Ken received the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, the Army Commendation Medal, Air Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and sharpshooter medals. He was a recipient of the Purple Heart and many asked why he did not receive that medal. Ken stated that he was not deserving of such an honor because “the men that fought and never returned were the true heroes”.  Upon receiving the Silver Star, it was stated that “Specialist Harvey was among the first to lead an assault with complete disregard for his own safety after there was enemy movement near a bunker complex.  His courage and quick decisive actions contributed to the success of the mission.  Harvey’s personal bravery and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and the United States Army”.  On June 1, 1974, Ken was honorably discharged from the US Army.

Shortly after returning home from Vietnam, Ken met his future wife Cheryl, who survives at their home.  They were married on June 12, 1971, in Fayette, MO.  He worked for Howard Electric Cooperative as a lineman for nearly 43 years.  He loved his job and he loved being around his co-workers who he considered his second family.  After his retirement in 2019, Ken enjoyed a good cup of coffee, watching his favorite show Gunsmoke, spending time outdoors, gardening, and trash talking his opponents in a good pitch game. He also enjoyed an occasional trip to Branson with his wife. More than anything else though, Ken always loved spending time with his family.  He was known for many things including a great sense of humor, determination when it came to anything in life, his incredible work ethic, generosity, mentorship, his soft-spoken demeanor, and most of all - his big heart.  He was a wonderful and loving father and husband and was especially proud of his beloved children. Ken will be deeply missed by all that knew and loved him.

Ken is survived by his wife, Cheryl; daughter Kim Harvey (always Kimberly to him) of Fayette; son Brett Harvey of Fayette; brother Jim (Betty) Harvey of Pilot Grove, MO; sister Debbie (Milton) Dickensheet of Bolivar, MO; uncle Herschel Harvey of New Franklin, MO; his nieces and nephews, numerous cousins, friends, coffee club buddies and his second family from Howard Electric Cooperative. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws Roy and Helen Quinley, brothers-in-law Bill Quinley and Rick Quinley.

Friends will be received on Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 pm. at Friemonth-Freese Funeral Home, Fayette, MO.  Funeral Service will follow at 2 PM, with Richard Fowler officiating. Following the service, burial with full military honors will be held at Mount Pleasant Cemetery in New Franklin, MO.

Memorial donations are suggested to PAWS or Wounded Warrior Project.