Harvey Franklin Gunnink was born November 2, 1920 at Hull, IA to John and Marie (Koele) Gunnink. In 1927 the family moved to the Lakeview community in Todd County, SD - the place he called home for the rest of his life. He and twin brother Harold, and sister Harriet attended school at Lakeview. Harvey attended school thru the 9th grade and then stayed home as he was needed to help with the family farm. After a year, he worked for a neighboring farmer, Francis Fisher. It was at a church youth group that Harvey met his future wife, Lucile Fisher.

In 1942 he enlisted in the US Air Force and served three and a half years, mostly stationed in Miami, FL working as a mechanic and flight engineer in the AF testing unit. During his time in the service he and Lucile became engaged. After his discharge, Harvey and Lucile were married on February 15, 1946 and made their first home together on the Fishers' family farm where Harvey took over from Lucile's father. This union was blessed with three children: Jean, Jay and Janel.

Harvey's love for the land was evident in the care he took with his crops and pastures. He marveled at the changes that had taken place in his lifetime - going from farming with horses to driving tractors with a GPS system. He took pride in his cattle and his crops, and was one who was willing to try new things, including irrigating cropland and changing from a cow/calf operation to feeding cattle.

Harvey was an active member of the Lakeview Christian Reformed Church, where he served on the consistory. He served on the Todd County School Board for 24 years, and the Federal Land Bank board for 25 years. Harvey was also instrumental in the development of Valentine Feed Service, Winner Circle Feed Yard, and Valentine Livestock Auction, where he could usually be found on a Thursday afternoon.

In 1997 he started a Wednesday morning men's coffee at his home for the men of the Lakeview area. It has moved to the Lakeview Fellowship Center and is still going today. A cup of coffee with his neighbors was time well spent.

Harvey's greatest joy in life was his family. He and Lucile celebrated 50 years of marriage together before her passing in 1996. His six grandchildren were his pride and joy and he appreciated time with them, including a good game of cards.

Harvey was preceded in death by his wife, Lucile; parents, John and Marie Gunnink; brother and sister-in-law, Harold and Bernice Gunnink; sister and brother-in-law, Harriet and Bert Schut. He is survived by his children, Jean and husband Russ Burge; Jay and wife Myndi; and Janel Schubauer. Six grandchildren, Tayler, Jason, Alex and Jennifer Schubauer and Cassandra and Haley Gunnink; nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Services were held Thursday, March 22 at 11:00 AM at the United Methodist Church in Valentine with interment following at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Valentine. Pastor Steve Boersma of the Lakeview Christian Reformed Church and Pastor Tom Lucas officated.