Harvey (Harv) Smith

Harvey (Harv) Smith, 92, of West Hartford, Connecticut and Delray Beach, Florida passed away on March 27, 2021. Born on May 16, 1928 in Hartford, Connecticut to Leon Smith and Sophie Yalen Smith, he would always consider Connecticut his home. Harv was a graduate of Weaver High School (’47), and a longtime member of the Emanuel Synagogue, Congregation Kol Haverim and the West Hartford Regents. Harv dedicated his life to serving others, first in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and later in life as a volunteer with the American Red Cross. He worked for Pratt & Whitney Aircraft for over 30 years as a tool designer. He would continue to use his mechanical skills even in retirement, whenever something needed building or fixing, Harv arrived with a smile on his face and tools in hand. He loved adventure and traveled to many countries throughout his life. He enjoyed an incredible life with his family and friends in Connecticut and later in Florida, where he met many new friends. Harv was an integral part of his grandchildren’s daily lives, taking delight in their escapades and sharing in the joy of their accomplishments. He never missed a practice, game or recital, and was often the designated driver of many a carpool. Harv was an avid golfer, tennis player, and bicyclist. He took up downhill skiing later in life and enjoyed being a member of the Mountain Laurel Ski Club, where he participated in many ski trips and social events. His social life became greatly enhanced when he joined The Network, and met Harriet, his partner, best friend, and co-adventurer of over thirty-five years, as well as many other lifelong friends. Harv loved canasta, crossword puzzles, a cocktail before dinner, and reading mystery novels. He had an adventurous love of food, always willing to try whatever culinary delights came his way. He shared his enthusiasm for life with family and friends and never missed an opportunity for celebration. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends, his partner in life, Harriet Elbaum; his daughter, Merle Kaplan and son-in-law, Dr. Bruce Kaplan; his son, Mark Smith and daughter-in-law, Jennifer Smith; his beloved grandchildren, Erica and Halle Smith, Hannah (Kaplan) Uricchio and her husband, Paul Uricchio and Michael Kaplan, his sister-in-law Olga Smith, and his niece Suzanne Smith Sussman and nephew, Paul Smith. He will also be missed by Harriet’s children, Jeff and Andrea Elbaum; Meredith Elbaum and Aaron Block; and grandchildren, Dara, Shayna, and Bethany Elbaum; and Ari and Eli Block. He was predeceased by his wife of thirty years, Zelda Apter Smith and his brother Jack Smith. A private graveside service will be held on Wednesday, March 31, 2021 at the Emanuel Synagogue Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the Congregation Kol Haverim, 1079 Hebron Avenue, Glastonbury, CT 06033 or the charity of your choice.

Memorial donations may be made to the Congregation Kol Haverim, 1079 Hebron Avenue, Glastonbury, CT 06033 or the charity of your choice.