Harvey Guy Holtz

Harvey Guy Holtz, beloved friend to animals and local theater, passed away peacefully at home on May 25, 2020. An only child, he was born on October 7, 1939 in Oak Park, Illinois to Guy and Virginia Holtz. The family later moved to Studio City, California in 1947. Harv moved to Chico to attend Chico State College in 1965, graduating two years later with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture. Following graduation, he worked at the College Farm as Head Swine Herdsman. In 1980, he began Harv's Pest Control which continued as a successful business serving Chico and surrounding communities until just before his death. In addition to being a popular pest control man, Harv was a much-loved member of the Chico community for the more than five decades he called it home. Persuaded by his daughter to perform in a show with her at the Chico City Light Opera, Harv fell immediately in love with acting. He performed in countless shows with many local theater companies including Chico Theater Company, Theater on the Ridge and the Blue Room Theatre. A gifted storyteller always with a twinkle in his eye, Harv delighted in making his friends and customers laugh and never was so happy as when he could bellow his own laughter in return. Harv was a lifelong animal lover and was passionate about books, movies and music. He was eternally grateful to his loyal customers and their unwavering trust meant the world to him. Harv was preceded in death by his parents Guy and Virginia and son Edward Holtz. He is survived by his wife and partner of 41 years Leslie, their daughter Sarah, and her fiancé Jordan Calo who truly touched Harv's heart by loving his daughter so well. He is also survived by his son Chris Holtz (Jackie), David Holtz (Debbie), grandchildren Tyler, Natasha and Miranda Holtz and by his devoted and loving sidekick, Mia. In accordance with his wishes, no services will be held, but Harv would have been delighted with any memorial gifts in his name to the Chico Animal Shelter. Checks may be made out to NVCF/Chico Animal Shelter, and sent to North Valley Community Foundation, 240 Main Street, Suite 260 Chico, CA 95928.