Harvey Town
RONAN — Harvey Allan Town, beloved retired minister and Christian and Missionary Alliance District Superintendent, pastor to pastors, stepped into the presence of our Lord and Saviour on Dec. 8, 2020.
He was born on Oct. 23, 1933, in Portal, North Dakota, to Stanley and Beulah Town.
Harvey was the youngest of four children. Harvey graduated from Polson High School in 1951. He graduated from Canadian Bible College, (1951-55), with a Bachelor of Theology and International Ministry and attended Japanese language school in Kobe, Japan, 1958-1960. He was ordained by the Christian & Missionary Alliance at age 21. Harvey pastored in Alberta at Barrhead Alliance and Beulah Alliance in Edmonton, Alberta, and also at First Alliance in Great Falls. He was the C&MA Superintendent for the Western Canadian District 1981-1990. Then he became the C&MA Superintendent of the US Rocky Mountain District 1990-1999.
He enjoyed 43 years of ministry from 1956-1999. He retired and returned “home” to the Mission Valley on Dec. 31, 1999. Harvey was a published author of “Jesus, Talk of the Town.” He served on college and seminary boards for 20 years. He was a CBC alumnus of the year in 1987.
Harvey loved hunting and fishing and recreational activities of every kind. His outings with his three sons and many grandsons were the highlights of his life.
Harvey and Joyce met in the Ronan C&MA church as teenagers in 1951. They were soon close friends, both graduated from CBC and were married in June of 1955. Their combined enthusiasm and accomplishments made a significant impact wherever they served.
Harvey’s deep love, faith and integrity has been an encouragement to his church friends, District pastors & wives and to his family! Harvey is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Joyce Lee Lewis Town, also his children: Steve (Edie) in Tokyo, Terry (Nancy) in Tennessee, Michele in Alberta, Mike in Missouri, Francy in Great Falls, Rhonda (Mike) in Germany, and Sandra (Wade) in Alberta; 26 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren; and his brother, Joe Town in Oregon. He is preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Rae Bell Hughey; his brother, Bill Town; and his five-year-old grand-daughter, Mary Town.
A memorial service to celebrate Harvey’s life has been held. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the C&M Great Commission Fund, care of the Terrace Lake Community Church, in Harvey’s honor. Memories may be sent to the family at: www.shriderthompson.com.
Arrangements are under the care of Shrider – Thompson Funeral Home
