Longtime Maplewood resident Bob Harsh, a man of whom it could be said without reservation was a friend to everyone he met, passed away last week from complications from a serious injury.
Everyone has their own memories of Bob. One of mine, which I’m sure can’t be unique, are his smiling greeting, possibly at a city council meeting, and he’d continue, “And how is Nancy?” (my wife) — always interested in a friend’s well being.
We’re both bikers, which was something we would chat about. I’ve always liked his license plate — Merckx — for the Belgian bicycle racer Eddy Merckx.
According to the family’s obituary of Mr. Harsh, he retired after more than 35 years with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, where he was proud to serve his country with integrity and commitment.
According to a Maplewood city email, Mr. Harsh was a Maplewood resident since the early 1960s. He served the City for many years on the Tax Increment Financing, Civil Service and Parks & Recreation commissions. He also served on the MRH school board and was an active member of the Maplewood United Methodist Church, regularly attending City Council meetings to keep fellow parishioners informed about community developments.
Visitation will be on Friday, June 20 from 4-8pm at Kutis Funeral Home, 10151 Gravois Rd. in Affton. The funeral is on Saturday, June 21 at 10am, also at Kutis.
I first met Bob when I did a piece on backyard chickens in Maplewood for Patch.com in 2011.
I’m likely one of many who only knew Bob as “the church guy”. He was always doing something around and in the church at the corner of Flora and Sutton. And he always had a warm greeting and smile for me (and for my little dog). It was obvious that he was one of those big hearted people who makes the world better by sharing it with us.
I’m sorry for your loss
Just heartbroken about this. Bob was such a wonderful human and his passing is a huge loss for our community.
I loved working at the Fox with both Jan and Bob. This breaks my heart. He will be sorely missed. Condolences to all.
Bob didn’t know a stranger. The smile was infectious and a permanent part of his face. He will be greatly missed. RIP Bob.
This is so good!!! Bob was my brother-in-law!! Been in our family for so many years!!! We are heartbroken!!!