Laura Lee Harvey

Laura Lee Harvey, of Manhattan, Montana, passed away peacefully at the age of 66 on Monday, May 12, 2025, after a courageous fight with an extended illness.

Laura Lee was the third child of Lloyd and Caroline Bergen and was raised in the close-knit community of Dutton, Montana. She deeply cherished both of her parents. Her strong work ethic was a direct reflection of her father’s influence as a farmer, while her love for cooking and caregiving was nurtured by her mother. From a young age, Laura Lee was actively involved in 4-H, a program that became a lifelong passion. In high school, she was awarded a trip to the National 4-H Congress in Chicago and later became an outstanding 4-H leader, passing on its values and spirit to her own children. She graduated from Dutton High School in 1977.

After high school, Laura Lee earned degrees in Home Economics and Business Education from the University of Montana. She later obtained an Extension Agent certification from Montana State University.

Throughout her life, Laura Lee wore many hats, each one a testament of her unwavering dedication and strong work ethic. Her career started off working at Allen-Bradley in Bozeman until the company moved. She then worked alongside family for many years at Matt’s Saw Shop in Belgrade and later held clerical roles at Montana State University, serving in the dormitory offices, the Air Force ROTC, and the Registrar’s Office. Dry Creek Bible Church was especially meaningful to Laura Lee; she served faithfully as a custodian there for 24 years and taught Sunday school classes in the children’s ministry that consistently went above and beyond expectations. Laura Lee also made a lasting impression through her work in various classrooms at Manhattan Elementary School, where her care and commitment were always evident. No matter the role, Laura Lee approached every task with diligence, precision, and heart.

Laura Lee’s greatest accomplishments, however, were the love and dedication she gave to her family and her community in Manhattan. Her deep affection for children was evident in the many years she provided daycare in her home where each child was treated like one of her own. She was proud to be part of the Manhattan community and was actively involved in school activities, including managing the sports concession stand for several years. A devoted wife and mother, she attended countless school events, music concerts, and sporting activities in support of her children.

Laura Lee had two great passions - cooking and spending time on the waters of Flathead Lake. She was an exceptional cook who generously shared her talents, whether she was bringing homemade treats to the school’s teacher lounge or preparing meals for family gatherings. Her chocolate chip cookies were legendary, and while many tried to recreate them, no one could quite capture her special touch. Some of her happiest moments were spent at Flathead Lake, where she found peace, joy, and time with those she loved most.

Laura Lee was preceded in death by her father, Lloyd Bergen; her mother-in-law, Betty Harvey; and her sister-in-law, Dorothy Bunting. She is survived by her mother, Caroline Bergen; her husband, Neil Harvey; daughter, Mariah Harvey; son, Jess Harvey; brother, Dexter Bergen; sisters, Riscilla (Matthew) Grimshaw and Polly (Gary) Carlstad; brothers-in-law, Ken (Liz) Harvey, Tom (Joan) Harvey, and Bob Bunting; nieces, Amy (Nick) McKethen, and Annie (Shawn) Bos; and many other extended family members and friends.

A service to honor Laura Lee’s life will be held Saturday, May 17, 2025, 3:30 p.m., at Dry Creek Bible Church, 8465 Dry Creek Road, Belgrade, MT. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that donations be made to the Montana 4-H Foundation, PO Box 173580, Bozeman, MT 59717, or to a local 4-H club of your choice.