The following biography was originally shared at Harvey West’s memorial service and is presented here in remembrance of his life and lasting contributions to the Graeagle community.
In 1943 Harvey joined the Navy. During his time in service, Harvey was sent to Harvard Business School through the Naval Supply Corps V-12 program. In February 1945 he was assigned his first ship, the USS Auriga, and served in the Navy for several years.
After the war, he continued working for the family business, Placerville Lumber Company with his father, Harvey West, Sr. and brother Robert. In August 1950, Harvey married his sweetheart, Shirley Devine.
In 1958 the West family purchased Graeagle—and the real work began. Harvey moved his family to Graeagle and along with his wife Shirley and their (then) two children, Deborah and Dan, settled into a red house on the hill.
At that time, Graeagle was a virtual ghost town. There was no running water, no electricity, and only a handful of people remained as residents. More than fifty years later, the community of Graeagle is the result of his vision, commitment, and much hard work.
Harvey was a civic-minded man and his leadership went far beyond just the local community. After moving to Plumas County, he served 19 years on the Plumas County Planning Commission, and founded the Graeagle Volunteer Fire Department where he remained active for more than 45 years.
He was a member and President of the Portola Rotary Club, and a proud Mason for more than 60 years. Continuing his passion for sports, Harvey coached Little League Baseball, supported and donated to the Johnsville Ski Hill, and promoted and encouraged junior golf for the local schools.
Harvey West, Jr. is an icon in the Graeagle community. He will be remembered for his long gait, humble demeanor, quick wit, and his unyielding sense of integrity and honesty. Today, Graeagle stands as a reflection of Harvey West’s vision, and we are proud to serve the community he helped build.