Carl Richard Harvey, 80, formerly of Decatur, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2026.

Carl was born on June 21, 1946, in Decatur, Illinois, to Margaret Louise Shadow and Carl Wilson. He graduated from Eisenhower High School in Decatur in 1965. On May 5, 1969, he married Paulette Nash in Decatur, and together they shared many happy years of marriage until her passing.

Carl began his career with Burks Pumps in Decatur before retiring from Mitsubishi Motor Manufacturing in Bloomington. He was known for his strong work ethic, generous spirit, and willingness to go above and beyond to help others.

Coaching was Carl's lifelong passion. He was the founder of both the Mt. Zion Wrestling Club and the Decatur Wrestling Club, where he introduced countless young athletes to the sport. He also coached Decatur Junior Football League (JFL) football for more than 20 years. Carl later coached wrestling at Millikin University and both football and wrestling at Rochelle Township High School. One of his greatest joys was coaching his grandsons in wrestling and football alongside his son, Richard. In recognition of his dedication and commitment to the sport, Carl was named the Class 2A Wrestling Assistant Coach of the Year for the 2017–2018 season.

Above all, Carl was devoted to his family. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who never missed an opportunity to support those he loved. Whether attending a sporting event, school activity, or family gathering, Carl could always be found cheering from the stands, on the sidelines, or beside the mat. His greatest pride was watching his children and grandchildren grow, compete, and succeed.

Carl is survived by his sons: Richard (Staci) Harvey of Rochelle and Mark (Lisa) Harvey of Huntley, Illinois; his beloved grandchildren: Alex, Ben, Anna, Hailey, and Avery Harvey; his stepmother, Gena Harvey of Decatur, Illinois; his sisters: Tammy Beck, Tracy (Dale) Loftland, Donna (Todd) Reed, Joanna (Craig) Fletcher, Roberta Monson and Anne Challis; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, church family, dear friends, former players, and fellow coaches.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Paulette Harvey; his parents; stepfather, William Harvey; his brothers: Billy Harvey and Terry Harvey; and his sisters: Virginia Reynolds and Patricia Perry.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026 from 9:00 to 10:45 A.M., at the Unger-Horner Funeral Home, 400 N. 6th Street, Rochelle. The funeral service will immediately follow at 11:00 A.M., Saturday. Burial will take place at Fairlawn Cemetery in Decatur, Illinois, on Monday, July 27, 2026 at 1:00 P.M.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to establish a scholarship in Carl's honor are welcomed.

Carl's greatest legacy lives on through the family he loved, the athletes he mentored, and the countless lives he influenced with his encouragement, generosity, and unwavering belief in others. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.