Obituary — Harvey Wall,
September 19, 1928 – October 20, 2023

CLAYTON, CA (Nov. 12, 2023) — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of husband, father and longtime Clayton resident Dr. Harvey R. Wall, 95, on Oct. 20, surrounded by family.

Harvey was born in Mountain Lake, Minn., where he was an athlete, musician and nature photographer, all of which stayed a vital part of him throughout his long life. He began his career in Topeka, Kan., as principal at the Boys Industrial School, where he worked with emotionally disturbed young men.

Education was important to Harvey, as he viewed it as a gateway to opportunity. Therefore, he took his work with the Mt. Diablo Unified School District seriously, first, as an educational psychologist and later as director of research and development. During his tenure at the district, he implemented a thriving program for gifted and talented students, oversaw the state testing program and created opportunities for college-bound students.

At the same time, he worked as an adjunct professor by night at Cal State Hayward, presently known as Cal State East Bay.

In his off time, Harvey enjoyed spending time with family, often in British Columbia, where he captured his love of nature through breathtaking photos. A strong proponent of giving back to one’s community, he shared his gift with others, displaying his photos in the Clayton Library, local banks, museums and through online photography platforms.

In addition to sharing his craft, he also gave back through volunteer work with the Contra Costa Food Bank and Shelter Inc.

In lieu of a memorial or flowers, the family wishes to honor Harvey’s commitment to service by requesting donations in his name to one of his favorite charitable organizations: the California Retired Teachers Association Scholarship Fund (calrta.org, scholarships section), Save Mount Diablo (savemountdiablo.org) or American Friends Service Committee (secure.afsc.org, make a tribute section).

Harvey leaves behind his devoted wife, Louise, 90; loyal son, Bryan, 69; and two loving daughters, Teresa, 64, and Marguerite, 59; along with his many grandchildren and great grandchildren.