Harvey William Hackbarth
Harvey William Hackbarth passed away peacefully at his home on Lake Limestone, near Groesbeck, on Jan. 1, 2019.
He was born in Seguin on June 29, 1953, to Theodore and Eleanora Hackbarth. He was born with a congenital anomaly that required multiple surgeries and hospitalizations over his lifespan, but it never deterred him from doing what he wanted to do. Harvey graduated from Travis High School in Austin in 1971. He completed an air-conditioning trade school class. He worked for several years at Glastron Boat Company, making many friends along the way. He later went to work at THE University of Texas at Austin in mechanical maintenance, ultimately serving as an assistant supervisor for 25 years. He treasured his special friends Sharon Lohse and John Scott, who made his job so much more entertaining. Harvey retired in 2008 due to continued health problems.
He loved dancing in his earlier years and in May 1977, he met his future wife, Ann, at the Skyline Club in north Austin on a Wednesday, nickel-beer night. The match was perfect for all 40 years. When Ann declared that she wanted a cat, Harvey initially resisted, but eventually relented. Harlan and Leon became great companions, and they developed a fond relationship. Harvey enjoyed bowling for many years and still has life-long friendships. Harvey was an avid hunter and fisherman and living on the lake was the dream of his lifetime. Sitting on the porch watching the deer and other native wildlife and fishing off the dock was what he loved. Harvey loved to cook and grill, much to the delight of friends and family. He quickly became known for his culinary skills after joining Christ Episcopal Church in Mexia. Harvey could be counted on to provide more than enough of his entrée for the meal. For about five years, Harvey and Ann hosted the annual Pentecost Fish Fry and potluck at their lake home. Sometimes the fish count from the lake was slim, so fish were purchased, but the spirit of the church community was great.
Harvey loved THE University of Texas Longhorns. Harvey and Ann enjoyed about 25 years as season-ticket holders for the baseball team. A new extended family was formed as they watched their baseball friends start families of their own and ultimately raise them at Disch Falk Field. Tailgating was a favorite pastime, especially when the Longhorns were in regional playoffs. One thing he did miss out on was attending the College World Series in Omaha, Neb., also known as THE University of Texas at Omaha.
Harvey is survived by his wife, Ann Kreidel Hackbarth; and his sister, Irene A. Hackbarth. He is also survived by two uncles, Melvin Dojahn and William Dojahn; and two aunts, Milda Schulenburg and Wilma Kutz; and a multitude of cousins, all of whom were an important part of his life. He is preceded in death by his parents, Ted and Eleanora Hackbarth and his grandparents.
Harvey and Ann are especially appreciative of the friendship and assistance of Russ and Marylin Holmstrom, who were a rock of support, always there when needed. They are also grateful for the support of the neighbors on Twin Points, Lake Limestone.
A memorial service of celebration will be held at Christ Episcopal Church, 505 E. Commerce in Mexia on Saturday, Jan. 12, at 11 a.m. A barbeque lunch (per Harvey’s wish) will be held after the service. A second service of celebration will be held in Austin on a date to be determined. Details will be provided on social media and the website www.blair-stubbs.com .
Please visit www.blairstubbs.com to leave a message of condolence or sign the guest book.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Austin Humane Society, 124 W. Anderson Lane, Austin, TX 78752 or LARA’s House, an animal rescue facility at 1517 Tx-171, Mexia, TX 76667.
