Harvey was Harvey: Remembering Harvey Pekar

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Steve Presser — July 13th, 2010

What immediately comes to my mind and everyone else that "knew" Harvey was that—"Harvey was Harvey"…

Michael Ruhlman introduces Harvey Pekar to Anthony Bourdain

Does that make sense? Harvey was a man who told it like it is. There was no "fluff", just straight ahead. Harvey said what was on his mind…no filters. It was refreshing! Harvey was unique and I say that in a very complimentary tone.

He was true to his roots and examined life as an archaelogist would examine a dig. Harvey was a friend…a personal one and more importantly, a friend to the common person in Cleveland.

Harvey loved Coventry. He lived here, talked about it and wrote about Coventry in his many comic and graphic novels. Many prolific writers use a community as their base. Harvey was comfortable and at home in Coventry Village. Harvey was a renaissance man of sorts…at least a working man one.

Harvey's knowledge of jazz was incredible. His tastes and commentary in this indigenous music genre were top shelf and very well appreciated among those who "understood" this often misunderstood musical form. Harvey's vast jazz record collection was eclectic to say the least. Many of Harvey's jazz record purchases were made on Coventry at Record Revolution and Game Exchange.

Harvey was often mislabeled as being "not cooperative"—To that I say BS! Harvey always made himself available to Suzanne for book signings at Mac's Backs. I wish I had a nickel for every time Harvey mentioned Tommys or featured our beloved "King Of Coventry" or his restaurant in one of Harvey's comics or graphic novels.

For me, Harvey always let me know how proud he was of Big Fun. Harvey wrote an entire graphic novel about my saga with the diners. I covet those wonderful encounters and sessions with Harvey, one on one with a man that many claim to be a genius. Harvey was a "Buy Local" pioneer, supporting so many independent "Mom and Pop" shops.

So Coventry, Cleveland and the rest of the world, we say thanks to a one of a kind guy, Harvey Pekar, a true Cleveland legend. They truly broke the mold…You will be missed! - Steve Presser