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Brian Harris Obituary
Hilton: Suddenly, Oct. 17, 2007, Brian E. Harris, Jr., 31. He is survived by his beloved wife, Meagan (Knapp); Daddy of Maura J. Also survived by his parents, Brian E. Sr. & Sandra (Steinmetz) Harris; his sisters, Jennifer (Paul) Blackwell & Christine (Matthew) Schnackenberg; 3 nieces, father and mother-in-law, Theadore & Joanne Knapp; brother-in-law, Ted Knapp; grandparents, Margaret Harris, Theadore & Norma Knapp, Paul & Helen Mahaney, Gabe & Barbara Borrelli; many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Brian was a highly respected health education teacher at Greece Central School.
Brian's family will receive friends Sun. from 5-9 at the Thomas E. Burger Funeral Home, Inc., 735 East Ave, Hilton. Memorial Service Mon. Eve. at 7pm at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Hilton. PLEASE NOTE: A concurrent Televised Service will be held at 7pm at Arcadia High School auditorium, 120 Island Cotttage Rd. Memorial contributions may be made to Brian's family for an Educ. Fund for his daughter, Maura, PO Box 745, Hilton, NY 14468.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Brian Harris
Molly Penrose
November 17, 2007
I will forever remember Brian and the heart as well as passion he exposed towards others. With his sincere and caring personality, he is a man we will never forget. Brian has touched numerous lives with his free spirit and pure heart he had within. He was such a lively man with interest in even your own personal life. At family gatherings he always asked me how my soccer team was doing for Olympia. Just this past year he was telling me about how he thought the Arcadia girls varsity soccer team was going to have a good season. Looking as how that the team has just won states; I believe that Brian would be extremely proud of them. Brian will most certainly be missed and we will always love him with all of our hearts.
Adam Rutz
November 17, 2007
Brian was such a great person. I can remember waking up at 5am to go fishing in the 1000 islands. None of us really seemed to have the luck that he did. He would always catch the biggest fish. Brian made the boresom wait for the fish to bite fun. He always knew how to make you smile or laugh. I love you and miss you Brian.
Alison Rutz
November 17, 2007
Meagan and Maura,
My heart goes out to you in such a sad and tragic time in your lives. Brian was an amazing person who never missed the opportunity to teach whatever he could to whomever he could. Even if it wasn't academically related. I remember when he tried to teach me to Wakeboard one year at the 1000 Islands and I just couldn't get the hang of it; he never got impatient nor gave up. Maura, your dad was like one of the best water skiers this family has ever seen! He had some serious skills out on the water! He would do anything he could to make us all laugh, the jokes were so horribly corny but they always worked...
Brian's compassion and warmth will be dearly missed by all who were blessed to know him. My thoughts and prayers go out to you.
We love and miss you Brian!
Tim Penrose
November 15, 2007
Just as my dad said, I will soon be entering into the teaching profession and I can only hope that I am capable of achieving half of what Brian has done. It was quite evident that Brian was extremely proud of his profession. He would often give me great advice on many aspects of becoming a teacher, even if I didn’t ask. He definitely had a set of teaching ears. Anytime he heard anything related to a teaching method or question he perked up, stopped his current conversation just to help me out or ask me what I’ve been up to at Geneseo. That’s the kind of guy he was, always offering guidance or support. That’s why so many of his previous students turned out to offer their prayers. That’s why, when I graduate Geneseo and get in to the teaching field, I want nothing more than to be like Brian. I love you cousin. GO SABRES!
Kathy & Howie Rutz
November 14, 2007
Meagan & Maura, We can't image the heartache you are experiencing with the loss of Brian. He truly made a difference in so many of our lives and he will be missed by us all. He made each and everyone feel so special. He became part of the family from the moment we met him. Please know we are here for you always. Aunt Kathy & Uncle Howie
Kelly Cary
November 14, 2007
Brian you made such a difference in so many peoples lives, you were a great friend, and you will be missed dearly.
Becca Cary
November 14, 2007
Brian was one of the most entertaining people I have ever met. He always knew when to make you laugh.There was something about him that just made you trust him even if you just met him. You knew that he would always be there for you and if you ever needed someone, he someone you could turn to. Brian taught me how to water ski and I'm glad he did because I wouldn't have been able to do it without him, everytime I fell he would get me right back up. He ended up in the middle of the river just so that I could get up on those water ski,even though he didn't even know how to swim! Brian just knew how to make things better and I will really miss that about him and i will really miss him. R.I.P Brian
Kara Alphonse
November 13, 2007
Meagan and Maura~ Our hearts are heavy with grief and sadness. Brian loved you both so much. He was a PROUD husband and father. It showed in so much of what he did. Even in his smile as he looked at you both. He brought so much into all our lives. I'll remember him for so many things but most of all I'll remember and admire him for his true sense of family. He knew how important family and friends were and ALWAYS made time for them. Brian was a great part of our family and so easy to be around. He will be truly truly missed.
We wish and pray for strength and healing for you.
With All Our Love,
Aunt Kara and Uncle Rick
Dominick Penrose
November 13, 2007
There is little to take from this tragedy except the realization that a good man was taken from us. My son is going to be a teacher and I thought he was in for a life of low pay and indifference to his profession, but after viewing the massive turnout at Brian's funeral, I am very pleased to know my son has taken this course of work. If he can affect only a small percentage of people Brian has, I will be a proud father.
Sue Penrose
November 12, 2007
Meagan & Maura~
While our hearts will never truly mend, we will take one day at a time and try to live as Brian would have wanted us to. His selflessness was undeniable. He was such a sincere and honest person. He was always interested in whatever you had to say and whenever he inquired about yourself or the family you knew he truly cared.
I will remember Brian for his genuine love of his family and friends – not to mention his wonderful sense of humor. I will forever continue to search for Abe Lincoln riding in a taxi on the back of the $5 bill.
He is so dearly missed.
With all my love,
Aunt Sue
Helen Mahoney
November 9, 2007
Dear Meg and Maura,
Our hearts are so heavy, and still when we think of Brian we can't help but smile cause he always seemed to have a smile for everyone. The wonderful vacations at 1000 Islands will always remain special in our hearts. Our love to you both always.
Nana & Papa Mahoney
Christine Harris Schnackenberg
November 6, 2007
I am proud that Brian was a dynamic teacher and had touched so many lives. To all of his students: keep making healthy decisions and help Mr. Harris's dream of a better world live on. To my whole family: let us all walk together reflecting on the many memories of Brian; a great husband, father, son, brother, and uncle. He will forever live on within our hearts.
Lisa Kitchen
November 6, 2007
Meagan & Maura,
Brian was a truely amazing man and we are all so fortunate to have had the opportunity for him to touch our lives. May your memories bring you comfort. I love you both so much and think of you constantly.
Renee & Paul Mahoney
November 5, 2007
Brian you were part of a very special family. You were loved by many for who you were. No one expected you to be any more or any less than what you were...a husband, a father, a brother-in-law, a son-in-law, a cousin, a nephew. You will be thought of fondly and you will be missed sorely. Every family gathering will be a reminder to us of what we had and we will treasure what we remember. We will see you again some day when we are all together in heaven.
Maureen Mancuso
November 5, 2007
Meagan and Maura: I wish you great strenghth and healing in all the days ahead. Brian(Daddy) was truly a very amazing man. He brougt so much to all our lives in so many ways. I love you both tons A. Mo
Jason Kitchen
November 4, 2007
No one can explain the way life plays out..however, we must focus on the memories and continue to take steps foward. That is what Brain would have wanted. We are all here for you. A families love has no boundries. I wish I could be there. You're in my thoughts and prayers...
David Mancuso
November 2, 2007
Brian, Your final lesson as a teacher was your most important! "NEVER TAKE LIFE FOR GRANTED"
You'll always be in our hearts and in our thoughts. We miss you terribly. Uncle David
diane hofman
October 30, 2007
i will never forget mr.harris. he was the best teacher i ever could've asked for.
debbie breeze
October 30, 2007
Megan and Maura,
Forever you will be in our loving thoughts and prayers.
All our love
Aunt Debbie and family
Pat Rydzy
October 27, 2007
Dearest Brian, Sandy and Family,
Our deepest sympathy to all of you at this most difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and may the love of all your family and friends give you some measure of comfort in the weeks and months ahead. very sincerely,
Pat and Tom Rydzy
Laura Pfenninger
October 26, 2007
May God be with you in your time of need. I worked with Brian for 2-1/2 years. Brian touched so many peoples hearts. The impressions he left were always positive and every lasting. I can not say I know how you feel, but I hope this will help knowing how much he made a difference in everyones lives. I remember one time I was in the break room pregnant with my twins. I was going through the phone book looking for daycare. He came in an asked what the matter was. I mentioned I was trying to find a daycare facility and was not doing well. People seem to be scared off as soon as you mention you are having twins. He said, let me get the number of the daycare he uses and try them. And within a few days he handed me the number. They were more than willing, except they did not have enough room for the twins. But it was the act of kindness that has stayed with me from your husband. It was a small gesture, but one well remembered and will always be. My twins are now 19 months old.
May God Bless you and your family. May thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Mrs.Laura Pfenninger
(Mrs. P.)
Martha (Schillaci) Conrad
October 25, 2007
Meagan,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your daughter.
May God give you comfort and peace at this difficult time.
Nicole Tuttobene
October 23, 2007
I had the pleasure of having Mr. Harris for health (and advisement) in 2005 (my sophomore year). I have many wonderful memories from health class, and I can honestly say I laughed just about everyday from something Mr. Harris taught, did, or said. When we weren't laughing at one of his jokes, we were learning about "making healthy decisions" or hearing about the upcoming arrival of his daughter, Maura - he was so excited! Mr. Harris was one of a kind - funny, helpful, and well respected. He was one of the few teachers who was able to genuinely relate to his students, and everyone loved him for it! My most sincere condolences go out to your family - you are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless.
Kayleigh Lee
October 23, 2007
I had the opportunity to be one of his students in High School. I cannot put into words how sorry I am for your loss. Mr. Harris was one of a kind and went above and beyond for the Arcadia community. He is the reason I decided to become a teacher. My thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless.
Laura Bartolotti
October 23, 2007
Meagan,
We are terribly sorry for the loss of your beloved husband. It was such sad and shocking news. It's touching to hear what a tremendous impact Brian had in the community. It makes us very sorry that we never had the opportunity to meet him.
We wish you and Maura the best.
Laura, Nick & Kaila Bartolotti
Rita Kearney
October 22, 2007
Meagan, Maura, Joan and Ted...I am at a loss as to what to say. Please know that you all have our heartfelt prayers, sympathy and condolences...Brian was certainly a very special person.
We have just returned from Indiana and we had heard about the accident
on the news, but not name, prior to our leaving. When we found out that it was Brian, I was stunned! I cannot imagine how terrible this time is for all of you. Because of Brian's wonderful personality, I am sure that you will have many beautiful memories to treasure. Please know that we will be praying for you all.
Again, our sincere condolences.
Rita and Dick Kearney
Tina Smith (DiMuro)
October 22, 2007
Meagan,
I am so sorry to hear of Brian's passing. We all went to high school together and even though I haven't seen you in years, I grieve for your loss. If you ever need anything please don't hesitate to ask.
Julie Boerner
October 22, 2007
I am a senior at Greece Arcadia. I had Mr. Harris for health my sophmore year. He was the best teacher I ever had. He was always there for me, no matter what. He would give me the best advice, and when he didnt quite know what to say, he'd make me laugh instead. I always used to tell him that he was cheaper than any therapist, then he would joke that he might have to start charging. He could always make me smile, even when I really didnt want to. I'll never forget the times he let me skip class to hang out in his classroom, or when he let me borrow his Star Wars manga. He taught me so much, both in and out of class (and a lot more than I needed to know, too!). He was not only an amazing teacher, but a great friend too. I will miss him everyday. Good luck in the hard days to come. Im sure you will find plenty of support in the Greece community. Mr. Harris was loved very much by everyone.
Ray Donovan
October 22, 2007
Dear Meagan, You are in my thoughts. I am here if you wish to talk.
Al Ambroselli
October 22, 2007
Meagan,
I was very sorry to hear of your husband's accident. He sounds like he was loved by many people. May God bless you and your daughter now and in the future.
Beatrice & Devin Thomas
October 22, 2007
Our thoughts are with you and your family at this very sad time. My son Devin, 6th grader at Odyssey this year, had Mr Harris for Home and Careers. He was deeply saddened to hear about Mr. Harris. Although he only knew him for a short time, Devin thought Mr. Harris was the best, he said he was funny, but made sure they got their work done. He said he was his favorite teacher so far in 6th grade. That goes to show the impact Mr. Harris had on his students. He made an impact in a very short time. I am sure that in time Devin would have really thought even more highly of him. I had the good fortune in meeting him at open house a few weeks ago and could see what Devin meant. He will be greatly missed by many people. Ours prayers go out to all of you who loved him and we thank you for sharing him with the rest of the world. God Bless you.
Taralyn Loewenguth
October 22, 2007
Meagan,
I so deeply sorry to hear of this tragedy. It pains me to think of what you, and your family are feeling right now. Brian was a truely amazing man, and we are all so fortunate to have had the opportunity for him to touch our lives.
I am sorry that I can not be there for you during this time. However I know that your family and friends will help to provide strength and support in this difficult time.
Remember to stay true to your faith and his spirit will help to carry you through this time of grief. You and Moira will remain in my thoughts and prayers each day.
God Bless
Kristen (Baker) Natale
October 21, 2007
I am so sorry for your loss. I hope that you find comfort in your memories.
Laura (Metherell) Kemp
October 21, 2007
Meagan & Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. It's been years since I last saw Brian, but still think of him and vividly recall his bright smile. I can only imagine the incredible man that he grew to become. Your entire family will remain in my prayers...
Christina
October 21, 2007
Mr harris had an effect on many people including me he was always smiling and he may be gone BUT HE WILL NEVERRRRRRR BE FORGOTTEENN !!!!
Roger, Mona, & Misty Zehfus
October 21, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Nicole Gammariello
October 21, 2007
I had Mr.Harris my sophomore year i will never forget first period health class with him he always made being in class fun even thought it was at 7:20am i will never forget him he was one of the best and funniest teacher i ever had to Meagan and Maura iam very sorry to hear about your loss my deepest sympathy goes out to you he will be missed by many people God bless <33
Kimberly Knapp
October 21, 2007
Meagan and Maura Joanne,
We love you with all our hearts and think of you constantly. We know that Brian is watching over you and is always with you. We pray that God wraps his arms around you to give you even the smallest bit of comfort. Love to you always.
Uncle Bob, Kim and Alexa
Mr & Mrs Kent
October 21, 2007
Megan and Maura, we are so sorry for your loss. There is nothing i can say to ease your pain, just know that Brian will always be with you, he was a wonderful person and he touched the life of everyone he met. It is still a shock, and we are so so so sorry for your loss. He was a great man and he will be greatly missed.
Best wishes John and Jennifer Kent
Lauren Zacher
October 20, 2007
Dear Harris Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Mr.Harris was a great teacher and part of our community at arcadia. I may not have had him as a teacher but he was so involved in school that it was impossible not to know him.
Chris and Lisa Hutchings
October 20, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this sad time.
Timothy Cox
October 20, 2007
I am deeply saddened by your tragic loss. My heart and prayers go out to you and your family. God bless.
April Terhaar
October 20, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I am so sorry for your loss. Meagan if there is anything I can help you with please don't hesitate in calling. I will be there for you and your family. My deepest thoughts.
Jeannine Espenshade
October 20, 2007
Meagan & Maura,
I am so sorry for your loss. When I heard the terrible news late Wednesday night, I was speachless. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this sad time. I will always remember the great times we had in high school and the years after. Those who knew Brian are blessed to have had him touch their lives. He truly was an amazing man.
Love,
Jeannine Espenshade (Musson) & Family
Joan Sidles, Tulip Travel
October 20, 2007
Brian & Sandy:
Even thugh I didn't know yor son, my heart is saddened for your loss. I hope the knowledge that your friends and family's thoughts & prayers are with you will sustain you through this most difficult time.
Julie (Schroth) D'Ovidio
October 20, 2007
Chrissy and Family,
You are all in my thoughts and prayers. May your memories comfort you during this time.
The Mazzafero's
October 19, 2007
Both families are in our thoughts and prayers.
Hannah Martin Wheeler
October 19, 2007
Harris Family, I do remember Brian being such a fun and nice kid from trick or treating with him and Chris from way back. I am so sorry for your loss.
Chante Snelling
October 19, 2007
I will never forget health class sophmore year with Mr. Harris. He was so amazing and always made class so much fun. He will never be forgotten. To his family: you are in my prayers. God bless. <3
Erin (Kane) Allen
October 19, 2007
I always loved Brian, he was so much fun to grow up with at St. Paul! Pot lucks, sports, the bus rides to Buffalo (when the bus worked and when it broke down) just life in general, so many great memories! My heart grieves for all of you! I am praying for the comfort that only God can bring for you all!
Erin Allen
October 19, 2007
I always loved Brian, he was so much fun to grow up with at St. Paul! Pot lucks, sports, the bus rides to Buffalo (when the bus worked and when it broke down) just life in general, so many great memories! My heart grieves for all of you! I am praying for the comfort that only God can bring for you all!
Jean Kraemer
October 19, 2007
Meagan and Maura, My grandchildren are Maura's friends at Becky's house they really like Brian and they love Maura they hope to see her back soon. If we can help in anyway please let us know. Brian was a kind sweet man and great dad. The grandchildren loved to see him. He will be missed by us all. Love to you and Maura. ( Meah, Riley, Jason and our mommy and grandma.
Heather Young (Burch)
October 19, 2007
I am so sorry for your loss! My thoughts and prayers are with your whole family.
Linda & Eddie Messina
October 19, 2007
Dearest Jen, Paul Helena,& Cora Blackwell and Harris Family
Please know that even though we did not know Brian personally we do know what a close family you are and are hearts ache with yours. Rev 21:4 And GOD shall wipe away all tears from their eyes and there will be no more death,neither sorrow nor crying...
Carrie Milano (McPherson)
October 19, 2007
Chrissy and Family, I am so terribly sorry for your loss. Brian was such a wonderful, sweet person. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Stephanie Woodward
October 19, 2007
Mr. Harris was the epitome of everything that is right and good. Even more so, he was incredibly entertaining with all of his corny jokes that never failed to make the students of Arcadia smile. Meagan and Maura, please know that you are in many prayers.
Michelle Greco
October 19, 2007
I met Brian, Meagan, and Maura doing an evaluation for early intervention. What a terrific family! My heart goes out to your family and for Maura. God Bless-
Michelle Greco
Laurie Dingman
October 19, 2007
Brian and Sandy...my thoughts and prayers are with you...I know how much you love your kids and family...my heart is so sad...your Brian was a wonderful person...may peace be with you at this difficult time.
Love always...Laurie
TULIP TRAVEL
VICKI PASTERNAK
October 19, 2007
DEAR SANDY,BRIAN,CHRISIE,JENNIFER,
PLEASE KNOW THAT YOU ARE IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS. NO ONE CAN UNDERSTAND THE DEPTH OF YOUR LOSS, OR THE PAIN THAT YOU FEEL, BUT KNOW THAT YOU ARE NOT ALONE. WE ARE FAMILY AND WILL BE THERE FOR ALL OF YOU THROUGH THIS HORRIBLE TRAGEDY.BRIAN WAS AN AMAZING YOUNG MAN, FULL OF LIFE AND LOVE. HOLD TIGHT TO ALL THE MEMORIES THAT YOU ALL MADE TOGETHER AS A FAMILY THROUGH OUT THE YEARS. AND FEEL HIS LOVE EACH AND EVERY DAY AS YOU WATCH HIS BEAUTIFUL DAUGHTER GROW AND CARRY ON,FOR SHE IS HIS LEGACY.
LOVE
VICKI
Mike Crandall
October 19, 2007
I am saddened to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Tim & Emmy Carpenter
October 19, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Allison Hoff
October 19, 2007
Dear Meagan and Maura,
I was so upset to hear of Brian's passing. He was such a funny wonderful guy. We were friends in highschool. My family and I will pray for you and know that our thoughts are with you.
Jenna Parisi
October 19, 2007
I am a junior at Arcadia and Mr.Harris was my health teacher my sophomore year. That one semester I had with him meant more to me than any class I've ever taken. I looked forward to it everyday. I can still hear his voice and laughter, see his smile, and feel the joy he inspired in me and everyone who knew him. I will never let those memories fade. I can only imagine what else he brought to the life of his family and friends. He was truly an extraordinary man. My thoughts and prayers are with you and always will be.
lynne
October 19, 2007
Be Still
Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.
Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.
If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.
Katie Apton
October 19, 2007
Meagan,
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Brenda Ward
October 19, 2007
I grew up across the street from Brian my whole life and every memory that I have of him included a smile. He was always a bright spot in a dark day! To his parents: as a parent myself, I can't imagine the grief you are feeling, but know that Brian is safe and looking down at all of you and still smiling. To Meagan: Every time you look at your beautiful daughter remember that daddy will always be there in her heart and yours. Much love and prayers are here for you.
Barb & Tom Coyle
October 19, 2007
Dear Brian, Sandy, Jenny & Chris,
Tom & I were stunned and deeply saddened at the sudden loss of Brian. He was one of my favorite kids when I was working with the youth at St. Paul's. He obviously took all that he learned and all that he was and used it greatly in his short life. We also know the pain of losing a son, brother, grandson well. Please accept our most heartfelt sympathy at this time.
We are out of state at this time and unable to pay our respects personally but know you are all in our prayers including his wife, child and extended family.
Love in Jesus,
Barb & Tom Coyle
John & Jeanne Reis
October 19, 2007
We are saddened to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Rebecca P.
October 19, 2007
To Brian's entire family, especially Meagan and Maura,
May you find all the comfort you possibly can in each other as well as your memories of everything you shared with Brian.
You are all in my thoughts and blessings.
Deanna & Christina Rodriguez
October 19, 2007
I did not know Mr.Harris personally, but my daughter Christine did. She loved him so much and was so grateful that he cared. I am thankful that God has put such a wonderful person in this place, who was awesome and blessed us with his grace. Thank you Mr. Harris for all you have done. Our prayers and love go to your family.
Wendy
October 19, 2007
So very sorry for your loss.
Scott & Christine Provost (Barham)
October 19, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Debbie & Bob Hampton
October 19, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Luanne Hershey
October 19, 2007
We are so sorry for your loss. Know many people from PA are holding you in prayer as you grieve the loss of a wonderful husband, father, son, and brother. Our hearts are with you.
Kristin Wojtylak
October 19, 2007
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I lost my husband 2 years ago to a motorcycle accident and when they go so suddenly, it is very hard to comprehend. He was only 30 years old and it can make you so angry to wonder why they are taken when they have so much more to give. You are in my thoughts and prayers. As a song said once..."only the good die young"
Erin & Steve Megalo
October 19, 2007
We feel fortunate to have known Brian and our hearts ache for you. You will forever be in our hearts and prayers.
Michele & Mark Kimmel
October 19, 2007
We send our prayers and love to the family and friends of Brian.
The Diedrich Family
October 19, 2007
We are very saddened by your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time.
John & Jolene Oister
October 19, 2007
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Stephanie & Timothy Duemmel
October 19, 2007
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2007
Jolene Oister
October 19, 2007
The loss of someone so close is difficult to bear. We share your grief.
Eva
October 19, 2007
So sorry for your loss
Jim Metherell
October 18, 2007
My thoughts and prayers go out to Meagan, Maura, and the Harris and Knapp families. I have known Brian as long as I can remember; from growing up in the St. Paul Lutheran community, to visiting with Brian, Meagan, and Maura at the Knapp houshold in Hilton. Brian was a man who carried himself, and treated those around him, with dignity and respect. He was always kind and considerate in both his words and actions. Brian will be sorely missed by everyone that knew him. May he live on in our hearts forever.
SANDRA HANSON
October 18, 2007
I AM SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR LOSS. I HAD NEVER MET BRIAN BUT KNOW JUST FROM READING WHAT HIS STUDENTS SAID THAT HE WAS A REMARKABLE PERSON. YOU ARE ALL IN MY PRAYERS. I AM EX MOTHER-IN-LAW OF ROBERT KNAPP, UNCLE
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How to support Brian's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Brian Harris's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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