Celebrating the life of Doug Harvey

The University of Manitoba joins the Winnipeg community in mourning the loss of Doug Harvey [BComm(Hons)/75], a distinguished alum, philanthropist and community builder who dedicated much of his life to making his hometown and the lives of others better. Harvey died September 16, 2026, at the age of 72.

Harvey was a proud graduate of the Asper School of Business and was honoured with the university’s 2021 Distinguished Alumni Award for Community Service, recognizing his significant contributions to the community.

His connection to the university extended beyond his degree and recognition. Harvey and his wife, Jan Shute, were generous UM donors, supporting students and the university through their philanthropy. 

“Doug Harvey embodied the very best of what it means to be a University of Manitoba alum,” said UM President and Vice-Chancellor Michael Benarroch. “He was an accomplished business leader who understood that success carries with it an opportunity and a responsibility to give back. Through his generosity, leadership and deep commitment to Winnipeg, Doug made a lasting difference to our university and to our community. We extend our deepest condolences to Jan, his family and all those who knew and loved him.”

Harvey’s approach to philanthropy was rooted in a belief that success was measured not simply by what a person achieved or accumulated, but by what they gave to others.

“I don’t measure people’s success in what they have. I measure it in what they gave to others,” he told UM Today in 2021.

That philosophy was reflected in a lifetime of service to Winnipeg. Harvey helped bring major projects including the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, the Assiniboine Park Conservatory and Qaumajuq at the Winnipeg Art Gallery to fruition. He was also deeply involved with CancerCare Manitoba Foundation, served on numerous community boards and supported organizations and initiatives across the city.

A successful businessman, Harvey took over Maxim Truck & Trailer in 1981, helping transform the company from a business facing significant losses into a nationwide operation. He later became CEO of DLH Group.

But it was his commitment to giving back that became a defining part of his legacy. In his 2021 UM Today profile, Harvey shared, “I grew up in a family where there was an expectation to give back. I believe everybody has a responsibility to give some time if they can give time. Some can give money. Some are lucky enough to be able to give both...and, you know, we're born with nothing we die with nothing. So how do you want to live your life in between?”

Harvey brought that spirit to his leadership at CancerCare Manitoba Foundation. He served on its board for more than 15 years, including five years as chair. Diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2014, he remained an outspoken advocate for cancer research and care.

Harvey’s contributions were recognized through numerous honours, including the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce Lieutenant-Governor’s Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Community, the Association of Fundraising Professionals of Manitoba’s Outstanding Philanthropist Award and the Order of Manitoba in 2022.

At UM, his legacy will be remembered especially through the people and communities he supported, the students whose education he helped advance and the example he set for generations of alumni.