Harvey Yocom Obituary

Harvey S. Yocom

Saturday, March 28, 2026, Harvey S. Yocom, 82, of Tiffin, took his last breath at Mercy Health - Tiffin Hospital surrounded by loved ones and his first breath in heaven surrounded by the glory of the God he served.

Harvey was born January 4, 1944, in Norristown, Pennsylvania, to the late Thomas S. Sr. and Letitia G. (Himmelright) Yocom. Harvey's journey of faith began early in his life, when he gave his life to Jesus at the age of 5. This event would define Harvey's life from then on, as he would strive to live in a way that worshiped the God he served.

Having lost his father at a young age, he spent his youth at Gerard College in Philadelphia. His high school years provided continued growth in his faith and service to God, which included serving in Youth Camps in the Poconos. His love of music also grew, which God would use to direct his life. The years at Gerard not only provided education and structure that would stay with Harvey in many ways but also led to lifelong friendships with classmates. Harvey was known for attention to detail, desire to learn, and meticulous records; however, connecting with people was something his heart cherished.

Harvey graduated in 1961, and, having tried a few other occupations, he entered the Navy, which culminated in his serving as a photographer and courier in Washington, DC. After his time in the Navy, he connected with music once again, singing with various touring groups, including the Continental Singers and Spurlows, which also provided an opportunity to share his faith. As it happens, a certain Judith Groman from Tiffin, Ohio, was also a singer with the Spurlows when Harvey joined in January 1968. He married Judy in Tiffin, September 28, 1968, and made beautiful music together for the next 57 years.

Harvey and Judy built their life together as Harvey continued his education at Central Bible College, graduating in 1971 with a BA in Bible. He received licensure as a minister with the Assemblies of God, which enabled Harvey and Judy to develop a regional music ministry, singing in churches and recording an album of their own. The licensure also came in handy for performing marriage ceremonies for family, where it was noted that "Harvey sure could tie a mean knot."

1974 brought the birth of their son, Shannon. It would be 22 years later in 1996, that the son would bring Harvey's favorite daughter-in-law into the family. Harvey was an active father, ensuring Shannon would have every opportunity to develop his own faith in God through Harvey's example. Friends of Shannon's all knew Harvey; they are sure to recall posing for pictures (finger in nose), removing their hats when indoors, signing the guestbook, or being invited to leave a quarter on the tank when visiting the bathroom.

Through the years, Harvey served the church and community in a variety of roles through his membership with Gideon's International. His career included extended time with MetLife, Lee Bernard Company, and driving bus for Bliss Charters and Tiffin University.

Harvey was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Thomas S. Yocom Jr.

He is survived by his wife, Judith (Groman); his son, Shannon; and his favorite daughter-in-law, Jenette (Cowie). He will also be fondly remembered by his eight nieces and nephews, among other extended family, friends, and the lives he touched.

Funeral services for Harvey will be at noon Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Engle-Shook Funeral Home & Crematory in Tiffin. Visitation for family and friends will be from 10 a.m. until time of service Saturday at the funeral home. Private family burial will be at Seneca Memory Gardens at a later date.

Memorial contribu-tions may be made to Gideon's International.

Online condolences may be left for family at www.shookfamilyfh.com.