Harvey W. Tibbetts, 85, of East Dubuque, IL passed away peacefully with friends and family on June 28, 2025. Visitation is at Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque on Wednesday, July 2, from 10 a.m. to noon, where the funeral service starts at noon.

Harvey was born on October 28, 1939, in Aitkin, MN, son of Willard C. and Dora M. (Peterson) Tibbetts. He graduated from Aitkin High. He moved for the railroad to Galena, IL, where he met Patricia A. (Miller) Tibbetts. Harvey later said he loved “Pat” from first sight. She waitressed at the local cafe. On June 18, 1960, they got married. They had two children, Anthony H. (Sara) Tibbetts of East Dubuque, and Jacqueline R. (Bob) Jaeger of Dubuque, IA. Harvey worked many jobs but retired from Alliant Energy.

Harvey was preceded in death by his wife, his and Pat’s parents, and his siblings who included: A stillborn twin, Duane (Patti Wanous), Mary (Richard Peterson), and Pastor Ronald Tibbetts. Harvey loved grandchildren: Megan (Chad) Smith, Daniel Roeth, Natalie (Robbie) Carey, Travis (girlfriend Olivia Jewell) Busch, Michael Van Meter, Marissa Tibbetts, and Sam Jaeger. Grandpa’s blessings were abounding even great grandkids—Adriana and Alaina, then babies Chloe Carey and Vinny Busch (also Anna, Addy, and Myles). Pat’s large dear family remained near: Siblings of Pat’s are Dick (Connie dec., girlfriend Kay) Miller, Diane (Dick, dec.) Niemeyer, Ronnie (Libby) Miller, Greg (Lindy Casey) Miller, Mark Miller, plus nieces and nephews and great ones.

Harv liked fishing, motorcycles, and CB radio. Harvey and Pat took family camping van trips to the oceans. They hosted friends from Guatemala and the Bahamas. Harvey was stoic yet had a wonderful sense of humor. Quiet and gentle, his words were wise. He loved God, his wife, his children, and his home. He enjoyed TV — Westerns and movies. The family thanks special friends Angie and Gale, Hospice of DBQ, and other caregivers.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.millerfhed.com©