Honoring a Legacy Through Philanthropy

Throughout his life, Harvey Schnell never met a stranger. Friendly, warm, and quick with a smile—often followed by a perfectly timed joke—he had a gift for making people feel at ease. His wife of nearly 50 years, Linda, lovingly calls him her “idol” and remembers not only the grace with which he lived but the joy he brought into every room.

A Brooklyn native, Harvey built a life grounded in connection and kindness. Over the years, he and Linda, a lifelong Bergen County resident, turned to The Valley Hospital for their healthcare needs. But it was the care Harvey received from Valley Home Care and Hospice during the final 11 months of his life that meant the most.

“Angels really do walk this earth, and the team at Valley Home Care and Valley Hospice were our angels,” Linda said. “I am so grateful for the way they took care of Harvey.”

Even in his final months, Harvey remained unmistakably himself—learning his caregivers’ names, asking about their families, and lifting spirits with gentle humor. Linda recalls that more than once, a nurse left the room smiling, uplifted by the very person they were there to comfort.

In gratitude for the compassionate care Harvey received, Linda honored his memory with a $500,000 gift supporting Valley Hospice and the Butterflies pediatric palliative care and hospice program. She also established a charitable remainder trust naming both programs as beneficiaries.

“The hospice team touched my heart on such a personal level,” Linda said. “I want other families to feel the same love and support we did.”

Through her generosity, Harvey’s legacy of warmth, compassion, and laughter will continue to comfort families for years to come.

Back