Dear Family by Sister Brianna Harris

I received a voicemail from Dadio on Friday night and I went thru a rollercoaster of emotions as he said, “Grandpa, Grandma and my Mom were in a major accident Wednesday Morning. They were on their way to the Mesa Temple and got rear ended by a Semi truck.” He explained the situation of Gramps being the one who didn’t bounce back out of it well, and that he probably wouldn’t. “Grampa probably will not make it…” The phone message cut out right there, and that didn’t sit well with me. After crying with my companion’s arms around me, I got permission to call back, and Dana comforted me by explaining everything and then I got to talk with Dad again.

Maybe it’s because I’m kind of far away from everyone (in proximity, I’m one of the closest, but I’m really in this missionary world.) but I want to share with you all how I have had comfort enough to go on with the work and teach. Tonight we will be teaching the Plan of Salvation to Alejandra Huerta and her kids, and I’m excited to testify that there really is hope in every trial we go thru. That’s why we can call it the Plan of Happiness, b/c it gives us a sure hope for a better world, and the chance to see our loved ones again. That hope becomes faith when we put it into action. And then when we build on our faith by making and keeping sacred covenants, we then can expect miracles. And when I prayed about Grandpa being alright and everyone else in the family who is hurting, I did receive a miracle, b/c I received a peace. A warmth, that filled me and fills me now, telling me that he’s alright. It’s true. Yes, I’m sad that my children will not be able to know him, or hear his poems and stories, or feel of his big bear hugs, or see his beady blue eyes hidden behind his bushy white eyebrows, but they’ll meet a better Grampa Sevy one day. One day we will all be together, if we live right. If we put our hope into action, and continue on living by faith, we’ll see him.

I’m thankful for the restored Gospel b/c it gives me evidence that this hope of mine is not just a “selfish wish,” or, “a good idea, so that I feel good”. But it’s a fact. It’s the way it is, and we just need to choose to accept it and then make it happen for ourselves. We’re so lucky to have the testimonies of the prophets whose faith was changed to a sure knowledge. From times of old, even until today. We get to read them in the scriptures, and then we even get to hear and learn from living prophets. We have all the tools we need: the scriptures, the priesthood, the temples, General Conferences, church callings classes and of course personal prayer. I’m working on making my prayers more meaningful and listening for at least half the time and I’m feeling the difference.

The family is the most important. My companion Sister Thomas had the lyrics of the song “No Empty Chairs” by Janice Kapp Perry and Orrin G. Hatch. And I thought of our family.

Look around our family table, every person in his place.
Memorize this happy moment, and each familiar face.
Look around our family circle, feel the love that we all share.
Life is sweet, and so complete with each loved one gathered here.

There are no empty chairs at our table,
No empty feelings inside,
When all those we love are together,
Here side by side.

Time will fly and all too quickly, some will leave to try their wings,
Empty places at our table will tug at our heart strings.
But the number at our table will increase as children come,
Bringing to our family table, sweet innocence and fun.

We'll add a few more chairs to our table,
A lot more laughter and love,
As our joy is multiplied daily,
To fill our cup.

When there comes a time for parting, there will be no tears because,
We will set a grander table where all may live in love.
There we'll wait for all our loved ones, who will come to take their place.
At the feast that lasts forever, in God's eternal place.

We'll have no empty chairs at our table,
No empty feelings inside,
When all those we love are together,
There side by side.

May the circle not be broker, may each on return to be,
Safe within this peaceful haven, through all eternity.

We'll have no empty chairs at our table,
When all are gathered above,
No more empty chairs at our table,
In heaven's home of love.

I hope and pray that you’re all well, and we’ll all keep living the Gospel according to our knowledge and testimonies that God has given us. We are truly blessed.

You’re in my prayers. I love you all.

Forever,
Sister Harris

A Tribute to Joy

These are the songs I compiled for the funeral reception as requested by Alberta.

Song Title	Artist	Year
Sentimental Journey	Doris Day and Les Brown and His Band	1945
Blue Skies	Frank Sinatra, Tommy Dorsey and His Orchestra	1941
In the Mood	Glenn Miller	1939
Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy	The Andrew Sisters	1941
The Trolley Song	Judy Garland	1945
Don't Sit Under the Apple Tree	Glenn Miller	1942
Take the "A" train	Duke Ellington	1941
Cheek to Cheek	Fred Astaire and the Leo Reisman Orchestra	1935
I'll BE Seeing You	Bing Crosby	1944
You Are My Sunshine	Jimmie Davis	1940
Don't Fence Me In	Bing Crosby and The Andrew Sisters	1943
There Are Such Things	Tommy Dorsey and His Orchestra	1943
Love Somebody	Doris Day	1948
For Sentimental Reasons	Nat King Cole	1946
There'll Be Some Changes Made	Benny Goodman	1941
Frenesi	Artie Shaw	1940
On the Sunny Side of the Street	Tommy Dorsey and His Orchestra	1945
Till the End of Time	Perry Como	1945
We'll Meet Again	Vera Lynn	1939

A few unforgettable memories of Joy

Our apartment in Seattle was on the annual migration route of Joy and Alberta.  Every spring they would leave their snow bird home in Yuma, Arizona and head north along the pacific coast to their summer home in Osoyoos, British Columbia.  In the years before we had moved there, they wouldn’t stop but continue farther west to the sleepy little town of Sequim along the Strait of Juan de Fuca where they have a rustic one-room cabin that Joy had bought sight-unseen from a friend in Yuma years ago.  Their visits were always wonderful and their gracious invitation to Sequim was always a treat.  My favorite part was that Joy always brought a huge box of dates that I loved to share with him.

On one visit, we awoke at 5:00am to say our farewells (Joy was always keen to leave at the crack of dawn).  Brooke and I were still groggy and barely awake, but Joy, as usual, was bright-eyed and ready to tackle the day.  That morning he was especially chipper.  He quickly huddled the four of us into a tight circle and said with great energy and seriousness, “Last night I had a dream and I believe…,” we waited in suspense, “… it is time to give my sail boat to Brooke and Mike.”  Wow! Talk about a surprise.  A few days earlier I had mentioned to Joy that I took a free two-day dinghy class from the University of Washington. I guess he thought that showed my initiative to become a sailor. Now I’m the proud owner of a beautiful 30 foot sailboat!   

That kind of spontaneous giving is just one of many personality traits that I admire about Joy Sevy. Every moment with him is interesting, exciting, and inspirational (including the 2 day road trip we took to haul the sailboat from Osoyoos to Sequim). 

The most adventurous experience occurred a few summers ago on a hot summer evening.  Maryjoy asked me to go to the grocery store to buy ice cream for everyone.  I quickly ran to my car because I knew the store would be closing soon.  Joy, who was working in the yard, noticed my haste and said he’d join me, I think for the thrill of it.  We arrived at the grocery store just as they shut off the automatic sliding glass doors.  I turned to Joy to lament that we were too late, but he was already out of the car running to the doors. I followed his charge, “Come on! Come on!”, he said, “We’ve got to get in there!” He was oblivious to me telling him they were closed as he pried open the doors and slipped inside.  Right away the cashiers yelled at us, but Joy was determined. He ran straight to the freezers in the back. I think he thought he was in the war evading the Japanese as we ran in and out of the aisles to escape the teenage baggers that were hot on our tail.  When we arrived at the counter we were surrounded by store employees.  The energy was high and my blood was running as Joy argued our case.   I stood by his side feeling like a solider backed into a corner, poised to never surrender.  Despite Joy’s valiant effort, we were denied that carton of ice cream. The victory for me was the experience of Joy’s fun-loving excitement and indomitable tenacity.

On another occasion he took me golfing at the country club in Osoyoos.  As we walked past the club house, he assured me that octogenarians, and their guests, didn’t need to pay.  We proceeded straight to the fourth hole (because it was his favorite) and then played eight more holes in a random order that suited him.  Best yet, we were hitting three balls each and only counted the one with the lowest score!   

Joy’s audacity isn’t my only memory of him.  I will always remember his other admirable qualities, like his relentless patriotism, strong work ethic, genuine sincerity, unyielding love of the gospel, and candid friendship.  Joy was a wonderful man. I am grateful to have known him and I am glad we named our daughter after him (and Maryjoy).  I hope she will develop their best qualities.

My Grandpa Joy

My Grandpa Joy

By Brooke Harris Lowry

(Granddaughter through Maryjoy Sevy)

“I can’t!” I yelled from the roof top

“I’ll catch ya! You can do it… just let go, bend your knees and JUMP!” Grandpa called to me with a smile, his arms outstretched.

It took me minutes of deliberation in my mind but Grandpa’s confident calls at just the right moment convinced me to launch myself off the 15 foot roof into his arms. Never have I been so relieved to feel arms put me on the ground again. “Good on yah sis!” he’d say with excitement as he smacked my back and squeezed me in his massive arms.

At such a young age I didn’t know why we all agreed to do something so crazy. Now I’m still not totally sure but as a ponder it more, I am starting to understand what one of the things my Grandpa Joy valued a lot in his life, and one he wanted to pass on to his Grandkids, was to feel the thrill of pushing oneself to the limit and feel the feelings of the accomplishment that goes with that.

Maybe that is why Grandpa pushed himself to compete in the Senior Olympics, in events he had never done before in front of many people, right up until the year he died.

Maybe that is why he pushed himself to paint the old schoolhouse in Osoyoos with a paintbrush in one hand, the can in the other on a tall ladder at the age of 83.

Grandpa’s body was in great shape for his age, people couldn’t believe it. But that’s not why he stayed fit, he just loved using his muscles daily. He enjoyed feeling strong and he was a great athlete.

Grandpa loved pushing things to the limits. Probably because he was from a family of 4 rambunctious boys, then in the navy in WWII, and probably mostly because that was just Grandpa’s personality.

On a few occasions as his Granddaughter I saw this side of him come out. I probably don’t even know half of the stories about the things he did but here are some of my memories…

In the summers when we’d all come to Osoyoos to get some summer sun, Grandpa would drive the motor boat while we water-skied. On a few occasions Grandpa would put my little legs to the test as he drive me around in circles as I hung on for dear life, until the centrifugal force caused my little legs to shake so badly, I didn’t dare let go! He’d be smiling the whole time looking back at me and pushing the throttle faster. He pushed me past my limits and praised me afterwards for being so tough and not letting go.

On land he would encourage us to push our limits too…

“Take another step up that ladder sis!” he’d encourage me with a smile. I’d look down, already feeling precarious “No Gramps! This is high enough!” “Go one step higher, step one leg up, like that… that’s it, there you go, now swing over that lake”….off the ladder swooping over the lake. Sometimes it is important to do the crazy, push the limits, push yourself, you’ll never know what you can do unless you try….now I understand Grandpa wanted me to feel what it felt like to hold my breath, close my eyes, let go and feel the thrill of doing it!

Sometimes he just wanted to toughen us kids up a little…

“Ouch! Ouch! OUCH! Let go!” I’d smack his forehead and scream into his hearing aid as he bit our forearms. He’d laugh and we’d examine how deep the bite marks were in our forearms. “That’s it sis, toughen you up a little!” All kids needed a little toughening up in his mind I think.

Often a hug from Grandpa was like being hugged from a bear or a wrestler practicing some move that force people to tap out. He’d always have a twinkle in his eye “Good to see ya little Brookie!”

Always getting things done, Grandpa was a hard worker. He would often wear a smile as he strode around the yard with his big long legs turning on the sprinklers, picking up some fruit from the lawn so it wouldn’t yellow. Sometimes it seemed he was happy in his noiseless world. When we’d finally get his attention, he’d stop, motion that he needed to turn his hearing aid on by pointing to his head, and then he’d say “now what was that you said? Ya see, I couldn’t hear ya, my hearing aid wasn’t on.” (as if he had to explain it each time). He would always smile though and it seemed he was never embarrassed.

Joy is a difficult name for a man to have….but yet it fit him like a glove. Grandpa personified his name. With a big white big and a low belly laugh, anyone could believe in Santa would after they met my Grandpa. His eyes even shone and his cheeks were red as cherries. I’m not kidding. When Grandpa recited the Christmas story one year when I was a kid I felt as though I had Santa right in my very own living room.

Grandpa loved reciting poetry. He would pause if the words escaped him for a moment, looked up as if searching for the words on the ceiling, and then exclaimed “oh yah, yah that’s right….” And then proceed as we all listened intently.

The smell of purple onions and avocado on toast reminds me of Grandpa. Shredded Wheat for breakfast too. Sitting on his lap, his breath would smell of it. Bu I didn’t mind; it sort of smelled good, familiar and sagey…like the desert.

Grandpa’s skin looked like leather. I often examined his broad strong hands as he gently and meticulously spread his peanut butter on toast, and then how quickly his hands turned to steel as he shook another’s hand. If you didn’t shake his hand firmly, his would crumple yours until you gave him a firm shake. “Squeeze, come on! Harder! Squeeze good and hard. That’s it! Good on ya!” he would say once we’d squeezed with both hands and all our might. He’d let go once he saw we had given it our all, then he’d laugh. Grandpa would always laugh.

Whenever I introduced my Grandpa and Grandma Sevy to my friends I was sure they would love them. That’s an amazing thing to have confidence in. Grandpa’s firm hand-shake and friendly hug, combined with Grandma’s kind words of admiration and praise. They were an amazing pair...the kind that younger people talk about when they are gone, saying things like “man, I hope I’m that sharp when I get older” or “what a fun couple, I love their zest for life!” I would agree and feel lucky they were mine.

The last time Grandpa and Grandma came to visit us was in Moscow Idaho in October 2009. Grandpa was happy to see the wooden sign they gave us from the old school-house in Osoyoos. We’ve hung it above the fireplace downstairs. It reads “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help”(Proverbs 121:1). This scripture speaks of my Grandpa. I think this scripture is perfect for Grandpa. He was often looking over the next hill, both because he was an explorer and because he had a genuine humility; he knew his dependence on his Maker.

As a child, having this character part of my life – my Mother’s Father – I inherently got to have this man part of my life. My memories of my Grandpa Joy are engraved with times of laughter, intrigue, goofy learning experiences and a little bit of confusion to be honest. I think – like most of the Grandkids – my relationship with my Grandpa was a bit guarded since we didn’t know what he’d pull next but yet we loved having him around. He will be missed that is for sure.

I’m proud of my Grandpa, he was a friend, an entertainer and inspiration to many. My Grandpa Joy was truly one of a kind and I feel lucky he was mine!

From Karen Gianniny

As I read the Osoyoos Times today online I am saddened to read of Joy's passing, and send my heartfelt condolences to Bert, Jon, Doni, Mary Joy, and Cam and their entire families.

I sit here remembering the Joy that I knew. He was a warm, gentle, smart, witty, hard working, fun loving man. The patriarch of a close, loving family, a man who put the welfare of his beloved wife and the unity of the family above all but his personal and unwavering faith in God. One who's advice to a confused and impressionable teenager over a few summers in the mid 70's through both his words and example was to follow my dreams, follow my heart, and stay strong in my faith in God. To always look on life as an adventure to be lived to the fullest, to give without looking to receive, but to keep my eyes open and not be unknowingly be taken advantage of. To always try hard to temper my words, and to say only good whenever possible, to build others up rather than tear others down. To remember that I am part of God's Master Plan, and to allow Him to use me to do my part, whatever it is. He reminded me that I may never know what part I played, and that it is ok. He showed me to look at life with a sense of humor, to smile often and to love whole heartedly, and to let God's love come through.

As I have grown older I have learned the value of these lessons and I will continue to live my life following the lessons he taught me through words and examples, both his own and those of his family that I knew then. I will continue to pass on these lessons to those I come in contact with by staying true to God, to myself, and to the examples I was given. It is the best tribute I can give to a wonderful person, part of a beautiful family, that influenced my life in such a profound way so many years ago.

I believe that Joy's core values didn't change, and that his love of family grew exponentially as the family grew, and his faith and trust in God's love only grew stronger over time.

You are all in my thoughts and prayers,

As I read the Osoyoos Times today online I am saddened to read of Joy's passing, and send my heartfelt condolences to Bert, Jon, Doni, Mary Joy, and Cam and their entire families.

I sit here remembering the Joy that I knew. He was a warm, gentle, smart, witty, hard working, fun loving man. The patriarch of a close, loving family, a man who put the welfare of his beloved wife and the unity of the family above all but his personal and unwavering faith in God. One who's advice to a confused and impressionable teenager over a few summers in the mid 70's through both his words and example was to follow my dreams, follow my heart, and stay strong in my faith in God. To always look on life as an adventure to be lived to the fullest, to give without looking to receive, but to keep my eyes open and not be unknowingly be taken advantage of. To always try hard to temper my words, and to say only good whenever possible, to build others up rather than tear others down. To remember that I am part of God's Master Plan, and to allow Him to use me to do my part, whatever it is. He reminded me that I may never know what part I played, and that it is ok. He showed me to look at life with a sense of humor, to smileoften and to love whole heartedly, and to let God's love come through.

As I have grown older I have learned the value of these lessons and I will continue to live my life following the lessons he taught me through words and examples, both his own and those of his family that I knew then. I will continue to pass on these lessons to those I come in contact with by staying true to God, to myself, and to the examples I was given. It is the best tribute I can give to a wonderful person, part of a beautiful family, that influenced my life in such a profound way so many years ago.

I believe that Joy's core values didn't change, and that his love of family grew exponentially as the family grew, and his faith and trust in God's love only grew stronger over time.

You are all in my thoughts and prayers,

Karen Dainard Gianniny

To the Family from Bill Lott

To Alberta and Her Family:

I met Joy more than 30 years ago when I was Manager of a Financial Institution in Osoyoos. Right from the Get-Go, I knew this was a Gentleman I would like. Forthright, knowledgeable and courteous. Business dealings were comfortable, straight up and beneficial for both of us. A treat in the world of Money and Banking. I would see Joy from time to time and always enjoyed our meetings. In 1980, I was transferred away from Osoyoos, but I never forgot Joy; his smile, his confidence and his larger than life persona.

Some twenty-five years later, Joy walked back into my life. We talked investments and how a conservative philosophy would be a good path to follow. What I remember best is when we discussed the virtues of an investment. Why it was good or not good to own. I soon learned his mind was never idle. Then, after he had heard enough, he would state, "Bill! I want some of this and this; let's do the Deal." And that was it. After he left there was always a 'Feel Good' in the Office.

I believe we are here for a while to help our Families, our Brother Man, to make the World better for having been here. Joy did all of that and while I will miss him, I will certainly not forget him or the strong values that he represents.

Bill Lott

Grampa Sevy: A Retrospective

I write this the day of my grandfather's funeral, March 15th 2010, also the date of my mother's birthday. Bummer.

It seems the only thing that could take Grampa out was a 2-ton truck. True Grampa style, out with a dramatic flare.

Grampa will be buried here in the hottest place in Canada. He is from California, lived here in the Okanogan, and wintered in Arizona. He must of liked the heat. He should be as happy as Sam McGee buried in the sandy soil of Canadian desert.

This is because Grampa was a flame himself. He was passionate about every little thing in life. He would give you the strongest hug or handshake, with the loudest laugh, then the next minute almost run you over with his truck. He taught you to do things well, to stay on your toes, to look out for No. 1 (yourself), and to not take anything for granted.

If Granpa had one last piece of advice for me he'd say:

"Brig, understand the world, human nature and politics. Do not let a dream pass you by. Do it right or not at all. Love your Father in Heaven."

Even at 84 he was still looking like he was in his 60's and complaining about not being able to do as many push ups and leg squats as he used to. His hair was still golden, and his cheeks still rosie. He was tall, and well toned, and had a friendly, white bushy beard.

Grampa was a natural charmer. He would quickly establish his self as the Alpha Dog in the room, and bring you into his reality. You couldn't help but feel you were in the presence of a free spirit, a fighter, an all-American star.

I will try to be all you have set me up to become Granpa Joy.

I would say I'm 1/3 my Dad, 1/3 my Mom, 1/3 Grampa. If you were to meet my Grampa, it was rare to leave him without dreaming you could have so much faith, determination, individualism, athleticism and charisma as he had.

Thank you Grampa for being such a large part of my life. You were great at being at the right places at the right times in my life: to see us off on our world trek, attending my baptism, seeing me off to my mission to Brazil, coming to Christmases, and the list goes on. Thank you for leaving big shoes to fill, for being individualistic yet warm and welcoming. Thank you for being interested in me, for being overtly generous to all others. I thank you for paving the way for the future, of your family and many others, for generations to come.

Love,

bRiG

A Note from Anneliese Schultz

Dearest Sevy Family,

I am thinking of you over and over in these days. My heart felt like it stopped for a moment to hear that Joy has left the earth. I’ve cried, and yet when I thought I would fall into sadness, I found I couldn’t, for I know so strongly that Joy, both the person and the emotion, is forever. Joy was also so very much like my own beloved father, Spaulding, and I take solace knowing that they are both with God.
I hope it’s all right to edit and use some words from the birthday letter I sent Joy almost 4 years ago, after we had reconnected with many of you on that brilliant double-rainbow weekend:

***
…I just want to stay in your circle, the circle of Joy, one of the most powerful realms I have ever known – an arms-wide ring of strength and humility, radiance and devotion, crazy humour and unconditional love…
How I have always loved the brilliance of your childlike wonder, the openness of your soul!
How thrilling it is now to watch this light reflected and caught, mirrored, doubled, residing forever in Alberta and MaryJoy, in Greg and Grandpa Harris and Paige and Brianna, in Victoria and Ericka and Trey!
Dear Joy, you and Alberta started this! It occurs to me that maybe Alberta is the lighthouse and you are the beam of light, playing on the waves, breaching the darkness, bringing the ships home safe... Or then again, you could both be beams of light, criss-crossing, playing, hiding in the mist, illuminating the night (this is starting to sound like Nirmal’s poem “Wind in the Trees”!) In any case, BRAVISSIMI!!!
***

The so-timely March 11 thought in “God Calling” says, “When I want to express to man what I am, what My Father is, I strive to make a very beautiful character.” That is exactly what Christ did in both my father and in Joy, and we are all the better for it.

A quote I love from A Course in Miracles seems to speak of Joy and of your whole family:

“When a mind has only light, it knows only light.
Its own radiance shines all around it, and extends
out into the darkness of other minds,
transforming them into majesty.”

Nirmal and Max and I are with you in spirit, and send our love to all of you who are of Joy.

Love and blessings,

Anneliese

Dana Joy's memories of Grandpa

Grandpa Joy who always had a crazy fun side to him. When he spoke I felt the whole world surrounded me. His eyes and body so animated and alive. I loved hearing his poems, you could see the joy in his eyes as he relayed the beautiful words he brought to life. I am so grateful for him and to be his namesake!
Dana aka "Joy Joy!"

Grampa Joy!

I think this took me a while to write up due to the trauma I saw at the hospital.

Here is a short description of my experience there;

We walked in to Mom in a full body brace, neck to legs. She looked so weak and frail, and it was one of the saddest moments of my life, realizing that she isn't going to be here forever; as I always wish she will be. As we walked in she demanded to hold our newborn baby Emmy and she cried as she did. Thinking of Emma Maryjoy growing up without knowing her name sake was too much to bear. I was so glad that she was released the next day despite her frail state. Poor Mom had to make such tough decisions and deal with so much even in the midst of her pain and confusion. I wept as she did at the thought of Grampa passing. Not so much for me as a grandchild loosing a my Grampa but for her loss as a daughter loosing her father. The very thought of loosing my father made me cry even harder. Age 26 or 56 death or thought of death of a beloved father isn't easy.

Going to see Grama next was even worse. She was hardly recognizable, her fusia purple, black eyes were swollen almost shut. Her irises were shining green with the contrast. She was in a hospital gown and had a brace on her arm, and the news was that she had some unknown injuries, the results were still coming. Despite it all she gave me a smile as I entered. Glen cracked some jokes to test her but despite a few hiccups in memory due to the concussion she was all there.

Seeing Grandpa in the coma was surreal, all but his breath and heart were disabled, and seemed to be dead already. He was laying there on the hospital bed, showing his length as he almost hit the top and bottom. I couldn't believe my eyes, Grampa Joy, the man who I love so deeply despite all his funny quirks, was on his death bed. Who knows what he heard but all I could get out before the tears came was . "I love you Gramps"

One thing I can't help but remember about Grampa is his wonderful smile and how his eyes were so full of excitement and life. There never was a slow moment or a quite one either. He loved to laugh and play, which made him a great companion for children. Jumping from the roof into his arms was obviously a huge step for a child but I knew that there were two big hands ready to grab me and keep me safe. As a child riding on the lawn mower and picking his well loved fruit was fun.

He pushed us to our limits and helped us grow. He tested our courage and strength as he sped on with the motor boat across lake Osoyoos. He was a lover of nature and color, and Mom says that she got her "eye" from. In a way I can attribute my design skills to him via my Mother who is a great designer. He was an adventurer and a "jack of all trades". His love and appreciation for real estate is something anyone should look up to. I hope to be like him in that way.

A natural at everything he did. His love and skill for sports is renown, even the winter before his death he won metals at the Senior Olympics. In their Yuma home, there were many metals hanging on the wall by the fridge. Good job Grampa. You lived the life many only dream of. He was a I can do that kind of man.

We have all had comments about our Barrel Chests. Not the best thing a girl can have but oh well, I did get my "tanned hide" from him thanks Gramps. It is definately a Sevy trait.
I am so grateful for his good genes that he passed on. Health is beyond important and I am grateful that I have it.

Writing this has been difficult, and full of tears. Emotions do show now how much I love my Grampa and miss him already. I am glad to be his namesake "Joy Joy".

Love,

Dana JOY Harris Rusche

Favorite Memories By Paige Clark

Grandpa Sevy was a huge part of our lives, especially our summers. My earliest childhood memories are mostly of our times in Osoyoos - with Grandpa throwing, catching or pulling me!
He is a part of me and made me who am I am. I think he stretched and pushed everyone who knew him to go a little deeper and challenge themselves. He had us kids jump off the garage roof into his arms from the time we were 3 or 4, he taught us all how to water ski (with help of Dad of course) and would bite our arms to the point of leaving his teeth marks in our flesh for at least a few minutes!
He pushed himself harder than he pushed anyone though. He memorized incredibly long poems and would recite them for anyone that would listen - which was most anyone because he was so animated and wonderful when performing! He exercised and competed in sports until the day before he passed! In fact, he won gold in the senior Olympic competitions down in Yuma every time he competed and just last summer he swam across the Osoyoos lake with us! And just a few months ago, he was picking Brooklyn (2.5 year old at about 27lbs) and throwing her up in the air and catching her! He was so good with kids! It was fun to be reminded of this as he spent time with Brooklyn and Hannah. They were fascinated by and gravitated to him. When Brooklyn was fussing one time, Grandpa pretended to cry in his dramatic kind of way and she stopped crying immediately because she was so confused!

He lived life to the fullest! The way he ate insane amounts of hot sauce on things - put Tabasco in his Ketchup bottles (that we would then put on our hot-dogs and burn our mouths off!) or eat onions like apples. His hugs were strong and large, his kisses on the cheek were bristly and long and the way he would say "I'm sure proud of you kid!" always made me feel like I was worth someone being proud of!


He had many loves in his life. First was always Grandma. Some of my favorite memories are of watching Grandpa and Grandma Dace and kiss. They were so sweet to each other whenever we were around. They were happy when we were around and we knew that. His love for his own Parents and brothers, his Kids and Grand kids - and now Great-Grand kids was always evident. He also had a passion for the Gospel, Freedom, America and Canada, Land, motor vehicles and politics(; He was always sure to share his testimony with us and encourage us to get into politics. I remember as early as 10, he was challenging my political views! I also remember him having his Jehovah Witness friends come over and have heated discussions with them about the Bible.
Oh! And he loved a good deal - like all-you-can-eat restaurants and cheap vehicles! At one point he had over 50 motor vehicles! He still has a fire-engine that he picked up for a good deal up on the ranch I think! Whenever I drove with him, he reminded me that you shouldn't have to use your brakes when you drive - you should just coast up to red-lights and stop signs until you come to a slow stop, then put on the gas (; His cars all had little secrets that you needed to know to start or operate them. He got the most out of everything - including his cars. Like Grandma said in the Obituary - he planned on living to 104 and in great shape until the end- I guess on the same philosophy.


He was a great example of healthy living, loving family, loving life and people and loving the Lord. Oh how the world will miss him. Oh how I miss him so much already!

We'll miss you, DAD! From Sharon

I met Joy Sevy in May of 1993, the week before I became engaged to Cam. We had gone to Hyrum to visit and found out they were in their trailer in town. It was REALLY late when we got there, but they opened their door and invited us in. Cam went back to wake Joy up, and I visited with Alberta. They were nothing if not kind to a nervous person. I didn't know the Sevy way yet : )

We learned to expect Joy when we saw him, and not a minute sooner. We also learned to see him quickly, for he all too often left 10 minutes after he arrived! Many occassions, when we were sleeping, he'd slip off and go on down the road in his own time.

After Cam and I were married, he swept me up in a BIG, TIGHT hug and with that big, gorgeous smile,welcomed me to the family. He treated me like his daughter from that moment on.

A few years back, I went to Mexico for some dental work. I had a cousin go over to Dad and Mom's trailer to leave a note for Dad to see if I could stay with him, since he hadn't hooked up the phone. When I arrived in Yuma, he had left me a note, weighted down with a tuna can. It said, "Mi casa is su casa. Make yourself at home. Love, Joy-0" My 4-day stay lasted 12 days. We went sight-seeing when I didn't have an appointment. WE visited the jail, sat at an outside table to eat ice cream, went to the mall, the flea market and back to Mexico. We went to dinner several nights to Chuck-A-rama (where else?) and had several political debates. One night he actually listened to me! He said "I knew you had a brain, Sis, and tonight you really used it!" High praise from a man I admire. I massaged his shoulders and rubbed his head, and we went to a thrift shop so I could get some tennis shoes. He's signed us up to play in a volleyball tournament together. What a blast! I was more winded than he was at any given point!

I know he was heartbroken when he heard of Cam's accident. It was hard for him to visit and see his son in so much pain. I think he hurt as much emotionally as Cam hurt physically. When he heard of his own injuries, so much like Cam's, I know he didn't want to go through what he had witnessed with Cam. It amazes me that their injuries were so similar!

We got to Phoenix early Saturday morning and dropped Cam off at the hospital so he could sit with Dad. We got a hotel, which happened to be the same one Greg and Maryjoy were at, rooms 5 doors away.

I went to visit later that afternoon, and found Dad's room before I found Mom. I spent some time with Dad, talking and expressing my love to him. I felt him there, but not looking at his body, so still. I took his hand and squeezed it several times. There was absolutely no response. I asked him if he was ready to go, and he squeezed my hand back. First awareness. That night, Cam and I went back in to say goodnight to him. We again expressed our love. I went to his right side and said " Just a few more hours, Dad, and you can go home." At that point, a tear came out of his eye. Second awareness. He was ready to go! I really think he was waiting for the final gathering of his entire family. Oh, how he loved ALL of his children.

It was just like him in death. Had to go on his own time, maybe while we were sleeping, or just not looking. Slipped away on his eternal journey. We will miss you, Joy O'neil Sevy. You made an impact on our lives. I will just give you a virtual BIG hug, as I did when I saw you leave, and say, "See you later, Pop. Love you! " I love you, Dad. See you later.

By Kendall Harris

Joy Sevy was my summer Grampa. Our family of 5 kids, 2 parents, and 1 dog used to go to Osoyoos to visit "the cousins" at Joy & Bert's lovely cottage on the lake pretty much every summer when I was growing up. Joy was always outside upon our arrival, usually doing some kind of heavy yard work, or up on a ladder picking fruit or holding down the branches so his little grand kids could pick fruit on their own. He was always shirtless & tanned, always visibly strong and fit, and ALWAYS smiling.

Yes, always smiling, his eyes wide and expressive, sparkling and dancing with delight at the story he was telling, or the story he was listening to. I always remember him with a full white beard, which, if you're a kid, really kind of captures your imagination. I mean, who has a full white beard except Santa Claus? ...Maybe Santa spent his summers in Osoyoos, hanging out with kids, grandkids, cousins of grandkids, friends of grandkids, church members, and anyone he met and liked, picking fruit and laughing alot.

Osoyoos was magical, and Joy was a big part of that. I remember big meals around the picnic table on his deck, usually standing room only, with lots of talking, laughter, and love. We'd build campfires in the evening and talk and sing, and Joy would recite poetry, most notably "The Cremation of Sam McGee" which remains to this day one of my favorite poems. He asked questions of everyone; so inclusive, so interested, and so alive.

His was a life lived vibrantly, generously, robustly, and thoroughly. He was much loved, and will be much missed, my summer Grampa...

The Obituary

Joy O’Neil Sevy (July 13, 1926 – February 22, 2010) was raised in Palo Alto, CA, where he fell in love with and married Alberta J. Upton. In 1962 they moved to a ranch in Christian Valley of British Columbia, then to Penticton and lastly Osoyoos.

Raised in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Joy served in various callings and was full of faith in his Heavenly Father and in his Saviour. Joy was very active physically to the last, playing tennis, golf, swimming, working in the yard and orchards, rejoicing in his health, his family, his friends and his life every day. Joy and Alberta wintered in Yuma, AZ for the last 15 years of his life, where they made many friends. Joy’s earthly sojourn came to an abrupt end when he was forcefully rear-ended in his motor home on a highway in the Arizona desert. He wanted to live to 104 and never get old.

Joy served with the U.S. Navy in WWII and was honourable discharged at the end of the war. He was a jack of all trades, a born salesman and a lively raconteur of Robert Frost, “Immortal Poems” and Shakespeare. He was a living Mormon pioneer.

He is predeceased by his parents Jonathan Evan Sevy and Mary Sorensen; and his brothers Jay, Don and Lynn. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Alberta J. Sevy of Osoyoos, their children Jonathan (Jack) Sevy (Barbara) of Penticton, Doni Gallinger (Don) of New Jersey, Mary Joy Harris (Gregory) of Calgary, Cameron Sevy (Sharon) of Provo, Utah; grandchildren Nathaniel, Jonathan, Kenji and David Sevy; Elaina Sevy Hargreaves, Erica Sevy Haner and Meredith and Jacob Sevy; Brooke Harris Lowry, Paige Harris Clark, Dana Harris Rusche, and Brig, Brianna and Victoria Harris; and 10 great grandchildren.

Messages to the family and stories of Joy can be emailed to paige.h.clark@gmail.com. Please view tributes, stories and a video of the funeral at http://joyosevy.blogspot.com.

The funeral will be held Monday, March 15, 2010 at the NK’MIP RV Park Club House, Hwy 3 East, turn left on 45^th street, Osoyoos, BC. Viewing at 2:00 p.m. and FUNERAL at 3:00 pm. Interment to follow at Lakeview Cemetery, Osoyoos. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Graham Funeral Home, 34616 – 99th Street, Oliver, British Columbia (250) 498-3833.