Harvey Sergio
June 12, 1951 — September 01, 2025
Harvey Sergio, age 74, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 1, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones in his final moments.
Born in Albia, Iowa, to Frank and Norma Sergio on June 12, 1951. Harvey grew up in Des Moines and graduated from Roosevelt High School, where he competed in many sports, including the Drake Relays. Harvey attended Northwest Missouri State University and Drake University, where he began shaping the path for a life full of adventure, hard work, and deep family connections.
In February of 1997, Harvey married his best friend and the love of his life, Mary Jo, beginning a beautiful journey filled with love, laughter, and countless shared memories.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, Harvey proudly cheered on the Dallas Cowboys, Boston Red Sox, Iowa Hawkeyes, and, more recently, the Indiana Fever. But above all, his greatest joy came from spending time with his grandchildren. Whether coaching from the stands, fishing on a quiet afternoon, playing cards, watching westerns, hosting garage sales, or sharing his endless jokes, Harvey created memories that his family will cherish forever.
Harvey had an extraordinary gift — a heart full of kindness and a special love for children. Over the past year, he drove a school bus for the Norwalk School District, where he quickly became a beloved figure among students and families alike. Harvey was known for his laughter, his stories, and his famous saying — “The bus is leaving!” — a phrase that perfectly captured his fun-loving spirit and left an impression on everyone who knew him.
Harvey’s life was beautifully defined by family. In his blended family, titles never mattered — children, stepchildren, grandchildren, spouses, and even ex-spouses were all considered his own. He loved without conditions, showing up for everyone in ways big and small, and making sure each person felt seen, valued, and included.
Traveling with his wife and children was one of Harvey’s favorite ways to create lasting memories. He loved planning surprises and making every trip unforgettable. Harvey was a natural giver, always willing to offer his last dollar or a helping hand to anyone in need. Though he sometimes struggled to find the perfect words, there was never any doubt about the depth of his love and the strength of his convictions.
Harvey never met a stranger. He loved sharing jokes, telling wild stories, talking about his first few jobs, including helping run his parents’ bar and his iron working days and making people laugh — even if he had just met you five minutes ago. He cherished time with his friends, whether grabbing a beer, swapping stories, or dreaming up his next adventure.
A dedicated businessman, Harvey spent most of his career in sales and proudly owned a company for over 25 years. He was always experimenting with new bakery ideas in the kitchen and loved helping his wife perfect her salsa and homemade spaghetti sauce recipes.
Harvey now rests peacefully with his parents, Frank and Norma Sergio.
He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Mary Jo Sergio; his son, Thomas Sergio; his daughter, Elizabeth (Brandon) DeBord; his stepson, Tony (Tara) Strable; his stepdaughter, Tiffany (Andy) Smith; his former son-in-law, Rick Goehry Jr.; former daughter-in-law, Brooke Strable; his brother and best friend, Frank Sergio; and his grandchildren, Madison (Caleb), Reilynn (Bryce), Sage (Wil), Anthony (Abbie), Blake, Cale, Zadik, Cason, Serafina, Kerrigan and Tripp who were the absolute light of his life.
The family will greet friends Saturday, September 6, 2025 beginning at 10:00 am with the funeral service to follow at 12:00 pm at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th Street. Harvey will be laid to rest at Glendale Cemetery.
Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Bob McCarthy
09/06/2025
My condolences to the Sergio Family . I first met Harvey in the summer of 1960. We had moved from New Jersey and lived across from the Sergio's on 58th street. I have so many memories of our growing up together, playing baseball and football down the street on an empty lot ,going to high school and working with him. We were Ironworkers and I remember the many nights tending bar at the Faucet Bar in Redfield with him. We lived together in several places in Des Moines. I still remember Harvey, Don & Larry Langholz, and myself going out at night having a great time. I moved from Des Moines in the mid 1980's. I last saw Harvey at our High School reunion in 2014. We had a few beers and talked about the times we shared long ago. I will never forget Harvey. Rest in peace my old friend.
Allyson Stepanek Gries
09/05/2025
Harvey was such a great friend to my dad Bill, I remember his company even sponsored me when I played softball back in middle school. I'm sorry for your family's loss.
Rick Mace
09/05/2025
RIP Harvey
Bill Whitham
09/05/2025
Harv was the only person from the south side that stayed in touch with me when we moved. That’s the type of person he was and I’ll never forget it. He would drive to waukee on the weekend to get breakfast and a drink. All my love to you and your family. I will miss my friend
Carmie Tursi Hobbins
09/04/2025
I am so sorry for your loss Mary Jo. Harvey sounds like he was a terrific guy. May he rest in peace. And may God give you the strength to carry on. Sending you big hugs and love.
Mikki Jo Maynard
09/03/2025
Mary Jo and family,
I am so sorry to hear of Harvey's passing. Hugs to you all.