To My Friend, My Hawkeye, My Cubbie!

To My Friend, My Hawkeye, My Cubbie
a loyal friend you will be
for all eternity...

Our time began in a place we all belonged
A circle of friendships
that mean the world to me

We were a band of brothers
that gave me strength and unity.

We would talk sports,
we would share dreams,
and quote movies all the while

You made me laugh,
made me smile,
and forget about my worries for a while.

The times we had were spirited
and nothing short of great!

I wish I could turn the hands of time
before it was too late.

We will never say goodbye,
for I am confident you know how I feel.

Today is a difficult day
because sadness and grieving
was not a part of our deal.

Instead we will celebrate your life
and what you taught us during
your short time here.

That is to LOVE what you BELIEVE IN
and BELIEVE IN WHO YOU HOLD NEAR.

Thank you to my friend, my Hawkeye, my Cubbie
a loyal friend you will be
for all eternity!


I wrote this poem in remembrance to my friend Zach Harsch who passed away last Friday. Zach was the biggest Hawkeye and Cubs fan, if you can believe it, he was even more passionate than I am. At the age of two Zach made the cover of Newsweek for being a Cello prodigy. He was diagnosed with Juvenile Diabetes at the age of seven and his dreams of being a professional baseball player would soon diminish. He never let any road block stop his zest for life though, when challenged he worked hard to overcome any obstacle. The diabetes didn't stop him from being active and enjoying sports, when he wasn't accepted the first time at the University of Iowa, he went to a smaller school and was accepted the following year. It was here at Iowa where I met Zach through a mutual friend of ours, Brad Steeves. Then soon after Zach and I shared five or six Psychology and General Ed courses. He always attended class and saved me many times when my alarm clock didn't work. I became an expert at deciphering his messy notes.
Zach loved life and made friends wherever he went. He settled down in Kansas City with his wife, Bobbie. He became a teacher and taught seventh grade Social Studies while he persued his Masters in Counseling. He made so many connections during his four years at the Middle School he taught. His mentor said he was a Natural and I don't doubt that a bit.
At his viewing last night the huge room was standing room only and it was impressive to see the hundreds of people that Zach touched in the short 28 years with us. Even more impressive were the dozens of seventh graders that had the courage to go up to podium and share their great memories about "Mr. Harsch". I am convinced that he had found his calling and made a huge impact on those children's lives. I am so honored to have known such a wonderful teacher, friend, and good man. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and many friends. Zach's wife Bobbie is due in March with their first child, he was already a wonderful father and he will live on in all that knew him. Please pray for a healthy delivery, thank you...Nick