Welcome
Over the last few days, people who knew Scott have shared words and phrases that describe him:
PASSIONATE – Authentic – Colleague – Friend – Courageous – Humorous – Dedicated – Innovative – Generous – Creatively Committed – Irreverent – Brave – Unconventional – Bulldog – Challenging – Sweetheart – Encouraging Friend – Deep with Love – Intelligent – Overachiever – Larger than life – Thoughtful – Caring – My Highest Head Honcho – Honest – Untamed – Truthful – Realistic – Protector – A fine friend.
Scott’s nature and his ability to touch people’s lives cannot be expressed in a few words alone. We have created this space so that people can share thoughts and memories of the ways that they are forever changed by the blessing of Scott’s time on this earth.
Please post a comment to share. Thank you for visiting Scott’s Memorial Blog.
For funeral arrangement information, visit: http://concordia.csp.edu/
Please contact our campus chaplain, Steve Arnold, if you would like additional support or prayer: http://www.csp.edu/CampusMinistry/
Entries
October 13th, 2008 at 4:23 pm
I’m still in a state of shock — Scott was as reliable and certain as the rising sun; his passing I’m sure caused and eclipse in the lives of many and most assuredly his beloved family. At the start of each new class he was always just an e-mail or call away; always with a quick solution to minor or major issues. Despite his busy schedule and efforts to keep Concordia’s criminal justice program among the best, he always had time to inquire about your needs and family. His caring advocacy for professionalism and academic excellency caused both students and teachers to strive to meet his expectations. It is hard to express how much he will be missed.
October 7th, 2008 at 7:20 pm
Like everyone else I have no idea how to write words on how much Scott meant to me. I first met him when I started my BA Degree as a distant learner. I emailed him often and he always responded to my questions often late at night and even weekends. Often my questions were stupid to me, but he always said no question is a stupid one. He believed in my abilities more than I did myself. I was so honored when he nominated me for class Valedictorian. He encouraged and pushed me to continue my education beyond my own expectations. He helped encourage me to continue with my Masters Degree. Not only did I continue, but with his guidance I was still finishing up my BA Degree when I started the MA program. Let’s just say that was a rough month or so. I remember Scott and I had long talks about if I should start one program while I am finishing the other. It was a difficult decision because the next cohort didn’t start for another six months. I remember Scott saying; “well Deb, just think if you wait, you will see this class graduate six months before your class will”. That is all it took, he was right, so onward I continued. He often would ask about how my family was doing and always ended our emails or calls by telling me to tell my husband Jim hello for him.
He has been a huge part on my professional success. He always believed in my abilities, but he had the ability to help me believe as well.
We had a common interest, our Harley’s. He always ended our emails by saying, stay on the right side of the pavement and ride safe.
Scott I will always remember you and how you helped change my life for the better. I will never forget your everlasting smile and your true love for life. I was so proud to call you my friend. As you said many times, we are all LIFE LEARNERS. Thank you for sharing your life experiences, knowledge and love for life with all of us.
Miss you my friend
Deb Thalison
Lyons, MI
October 7th, 2008 at 11:17 am
Although I only knew Scott for a brief time while working at Concordia, I will always remember his huge heart, his laugh, his genuine caring and gentle spirit…truly, an amazing man.
October 6th, 2008 at 3:57 pm
Everyday I keep reading the words of those that loved Scott and I agree with his sister it is somehow a comfort. Just to know that there are so many people lives that Scott was able to touch and mean something to speaks in volume!
I can not imagine how Diane, Kelsey and Ricky are doing. Scott selected Diane to marry and call his wife. I’m sure she is a tough one that can manage and get through the worst of times and then there is Kelsey and Ricky. Kelsey, I am so very proud of you for running the marathon on Sunday! Either way you would have had the support from your family and friends but I’m sure your Dad is in heaven smiling down upon you. Ricky-I am not sure what you have been up to but I want you to know that my two little ones Dad is in heaven as well. I’m sure that your Dad is chatting away with him. I know how he enjoyed watching your juggling and just laying around watching movies and taking it easy with you.
With each new day I hope you are able to read something new about how wonderful your Dad is.
Keep your head up knowing that he raised you to be the very best and to overcome what life throws at you.
The Harr family is truly an inspiration to us all!
Diane you have done a wonderful job at holding your family together and are a true gift from God.
My thoughts are with you and my family prays for your well being.
With lots of Love and heartfelt tears.
October 6th, 2008 at 3:07 pm
Here is the link to Caroline’s blog with the pictures of Kelsey as she nears the finish line: http://cbslocalblogs.prospero.com/n/blogs/blog.aspx?webtag=WCCO_crimescene
Onward Kelsey Harr! (more pictures coming soon)
October 5th, 2008 at 8:40 pm
Scott’s daughter Kelsey made it across the finish line
at the Twin Cities marathon in St.Paul today–the day after hundreds gathered in Minneapolis for her dad’s funeral. She was literally following in Scott’s footsteps since he also ran that marathon seven years ago. Kelsey, your dad is so proud of you!
I have posted a photo on my blog of Kelsey running just past mile 23 on Summit Avenue in St.Paul -the same place I watched Scott running to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s blood cancer research. (See Kelsey at http://www.com/crimesceneblog).
You can still make a donation in Kelsey’s name. Her webpage is at http://pages.teamintraining.org:80/mn/twin08/kharr
Thanks, Kelsey, for showing us all how to keep pushing the boundaries as your dad did for us for so many years.
October 5th, 2008 at 3:58 pm
It will be some time before I can fully comprehend the enormous contribution Scott has made to make our society a better place. I have known Scott for over three decades and I thought I had him pretty well figured out. After his passing and the powerful funeral this past weekend, I realize that I am just beginning to know and APPRECIATE Scott Harr. I have shared with some the fact that I was a young teacher at Edina West High School when Scott began chasing his DREAMS, sometimes in the classroom and sometimes at the infamous Door Nine where students tested the school rules. While he was serving in active law enforcement, he would often call to compare notes on some pattern of gang or cult activity that he was facing. He would sometimes join us on surveillance details to see firsthand what was happening in Minneapolis. When he needed some photos for one of his textbooks, he would call and we would set something up for him. When he needed someone to make a guest presentation for one of his criminal justice classes, we were all glad to oblige. When he called in 2002 to see if I wanted to teach an orphan research methods course (online), I was skeptical but I agree to try it. Since I was about to retire, he convinced me to try other online courses and I was hooked. Scott’s philosophy for his instructors and students always centered on balance: family, work, and school. In the past year, Scott took dramatic steps to address student writing issues. It was typical of Scott to hit the tough issues head on. He was thoughtful but he was not afraid to make a decision. I respect him for that rare ability. In the 36 years that our paths have crossed in law enforcement and education circles, we often spoke of our DREAMS for our families, our jobs, our communities, our schools, and for the larger society. Over the years, Scott allowed and encouraged everyone to DREAM. Clearly, Scott was passionate about his mission to provide educational opportunities for criminal justice professionals. I will be forever indebted to Scott for allowing me to join his teaching team at Concordia University. My thoughts and prayers are with Diane, Kelsey, and Ricky today and always.
October 5th, 2008 at 12:32 pm
Oh my — this blog makes my heart swell with pride and wince with pain. That is ok. Love to all of you for your sharing. It helps somehow. – Scott’s sister
October 5th, 2008 at 9:23 am
I keep thinking “I wish I would have done this” or “I wish I would have done that.” I lost a dear friend who became a “constant” in my life. He was my anchor, my life preserver, my crutch, and now he is gone. I will no longer see the pop up on the corner of my computer “Scott Harr” email incoming. I hate that idea with a passion. You take certain things in life for granted and I was guilty of taking Scott for granted. I took for granted that he would always be there for me, well, because he always was. I took for granted that when I needed a kind word or advice he would give them to me.
I took for granted the annual emails with pictures of his latest trip, car, family event, old picture, or new one. I took for granted his bullet phone conversations that always lifted my mood yet felt like it was a form of a race. Scott was so busy trying to make contact with everyone he possibly could in this world and I believe he almost made it. He touched more lives than anyone I had ever known before or probably ever will. I wish I would have been more demanding when it came to those lunch plans or riding the harleys to another “new” dealership. I wish I wouldn’t have kept thinking there will be another day or another opportunity to do this or that. See, even in death Scott continues to teach us all that life is too short to put those things off till tomorrow. I do wish I would have told him more what he meant to me. I wish I would have taken the time to ride the rides and talk the talk. My friend has taught me to cherish every day and everyone so that you wont have to say “I wish I would have done this” or ” I wish I would have done that.” Love you “bro”
October 4th, 2008 at 6:09 pm
Scott Harr was one of the first employees at Concordia to welcome me to my new job. He was also the first to send me a note that I was doing a great job. I came to find that was a common occurrence. If Scott thought that you need a word or a thought he was the first to give you an email. If he thought that you needed a joke or a thought he was the first to give it.
For Christmas last year he gave me a package with a smile on his face. It was post it notes that had a message on it. it said “Don’t make me release my flying monkeys….. Thank you Donna J. Olson” I laughed so hard. He also proceeded to send me various emails with that message on it.. when I asked him why he always just smiled and said well, what do you think.
He also had a thing for sending emails.. seriously did the man sleep? His emails on Friday would always end with ”Call if you need bail” Now, for some people I would know it was a joke. With Scott he was serious. He was kind, generous, funny and a great man. The world and Concordia have lost a great man.
God Speed Scott you are one of the greatest!
October 3rd, 2008 at 11:09 pm
Scott had such compassion for people combined with a “we can do anything” attitude. His care, openess, and dedication to all students showed the true depth to his character. I learned so much from Scott about seeing the possibility in every situation and working to make it happen.
Even after leaving Concordia, Scott and I continued to keep in touch. He will always hold a special place in my heart for helping with the adoption of my son. He would share words of wisdom and encouragement as I learned to be a first time mom and it became very evident through our discussions how devoted he was to his family and proud he was of his kids. They definitely learned from his influence and will continue to do amazing things.
Since we met with Kirk as our common bond, it was only fitting that Kirk be the one to share the sad news of his death. Scott, I will miss you. I promise to continue to look for the possibilities.
October 3rd, 2008 at 10:12 pm
I do not know where to begin when it comes to putting into words the influence that this man had on me. When I first began the process to complete the Masters program, I had to write an essay about myself and why I wanted to take on this challenge. I enjoy new challenges, and to me that is the way I approached writing the essay and my approach to completing a Masters degree. I also hold things pretty close to the cuff. Scott called me and encouraged me to spill the beans and get to the heart of the matter….why I wanted to be in the Masters program. From that point on, he challenged me, chided me, pushed me, and made me want to go for the WOW factor. For the first time ever I obtained and held a perfect GPA….all this at the tender age of 51. After the program Scott encouraged and allowed me the extreme privilege of becoming an adjunct faculty member. His passion encouraged my passion. Scott was never afraid to go the extra mile for anyone. He also would let you know if you were moving to fast….but in a manner that made you examine what you wanted as your end result. Then proceed, make it your own….and make it good!
ONWARD!
Scott and I shared not only a passion for education, but for motorcycling. Considering that I live in the NW corner of MN, and he in the metro, it was not possible to just go for an afternoon ride. But we talked about it, and that kept the dreams alive. I am sad to say that we never got a chance to link up for a ride, but we shared experiences, and pictures via email. When we spoke of taking a trip somewhere we always talked about riding safe and I always ended my email with “stay between the ditches”. I will miss those memories of the ride and the sharing of pictures.
Most of all I will miss the man; his encouragement, drive, tenacity, boldness, and his kindness.
Our time on earth is not measured by the dash between birth and death. Our time is measured by how that time, that dash, was spent. If it is possible to judge his time by what has been said….Scott spent every minute influencing, encouraging and shaping the lives of all who he came in conatact with. That is some kind of measure!
I will miss you my friend and may GOD’s gentle touch be on the hearts of all those that are struggling with your untimely loss.
October 3rd, 2008 at 3:35 pm
There are no words to describe what I felt when I saw Scott’s face on the home page. Somehow, the smiling face, along with the words of death didn’t fit. I don’t even remember the words I shouted, but it brought everyone into the room.
Scott was the main reason I came to Concordia to complete my BA and shortly after went on with my MA. A personal memory was when I was 10 minutes late for chat. I had been at my daughter’s Christmas concert and apologized to him privately. He sent me back a scolding message back, telling me to sign off right away, and take her out for hot chocolate. Family first.
I also remember during my MA residency when he talked about how he would always take phone calls from family members during meetings, and yes, even residency. I remember he spoke of a call from Kelsey, which I believe was regarding her first biology final. Wow, was he proud! He taught us that family is ALWAYS positioned on the front burner! As others have said, he was able to talk with anyone, and even shared a few of his own life stuggles. I don’t know how he did it, but he always answered my e-mails the same day. Did he ever sleep?! I will also miss the Christmas letter and the list of radio stations from around the world! I will miss his smile and hug when I graduate in May.
My prayer is that time will ease the pain and memories will keep his spirit alive. Whenever I hear the words, Onward!,juggling, pinball, paradigm, Harley,(and yes, even Constitution) I will think of Scott!
October 3rd, 2008 at 2:01 pm
Scott was my boss, he was my mentor, and he was my friend. He had an uncanny ability to personally connect with everyone he dealt with, and this is obvious to anyone reading this blog!! He was a true leader in every sense of the word. He knew how to motivate and bring out the very best in everyone with whom he worked with. He achieved this level of leadership because he truly believed in us — faculty and students. Yet with all of his professional accomplishments, degrees and titles and his leadership abilities, he was the most down to earth and family oriented person I’ve ever known. His passion for the Concordia University Criminal Justice Program and for education was contagious to anyone who got near him. I know that his passing will not diminish what he has achieved, and I am encouraged to see CSP is still considering Scott’s “CJ Institute” concept. Scott’s passing will not get us off the course he has established; and I will never forget the inspirational and friendly advice he so graciously bestowed to me over these past several years.
October 3rd, 2008 at 9:29 am
What…is it Kisha Roberts…Gosh, I thought I had done something to make you made at me. I haven’t heard from you in awhile. Hey how’s my Redneck Street Corner Bookseller doing?
This is how Scott and I would communicate. I always thought of him and I know he thought of many people on a daily basis, but we would not communicate daily, weekly or even monthly. When we did chat we caught up on family and personal stuff. Scott as many have mentioned was so very fond of his family. For one to speak with such admiration to make you feel as if you know someone without actually meeting them is a true gift and one that Scott has shared with many of his students and fellow online colleagues. For it is being able to bring that human spirit alive and really relate to those around us. Scott defined that.
On Sept. 30th I had actually sent an email to him and a few others. I received a response from another Professor informing me about the terrible news. I was in total disbelief, like so many others. So, I now will no longer receive an email asking me if I was mad at him, nor will I be called his Redneck Bookseller ever again. I will not forget. So, I have to say I have learned a very valuable life lesson and that is to make sure that you do in fact reach out to your friends and family more often. Tell them how you feel about them and give more love than you have received. It was the hetic life of being a single mom, which Scott always admired, that kept me from reaching out more often. But when I did he always had the time to respond with something even if he was busy. Just thinking about someone is not enough, we need to act and do instead of having the wishful thoughts at a later time.
Scott and I met gosh in 1999. I was working at Thomson Learning/Cengage and received a call from one of our textbook authors. I felt like I was talking to a movie star. He was unlike what I had already imagined an author being…Scott was pleasant, witty, charming, down to earth. It was a few years that passed and I can still remember that day that we first spoke in 1999. In 2002, I became a sales rep and supported the sales of Scott’s textbooks and faith would have it that I covered the grand state of MN. I called upon Scott and again he was as friendly as all get out. We didn’t just talk work stuff for who really wants to do that. We talked about whatever floated our boats. We chatted about Family, Vacations(Disney World and the Fireworks he LOVED them), Alison Krauss(Scott says,”Ah she has the voice of an Angel), Prince and his mansion that he was in charge of security, Thoroughbred Race Tracks and then the most important stuff like Sturgis, Harley’s, Tattoos, Beer, Pinball and his family room downstairs that is his away from it all retreat. Scott was simply stated the BEST PERSON I have ever had the pleasure of having in my life. He was so very intelligent but hated the way most acted that were. He always said, “In order to get people to learn you have to be willing to listen and talk to their level.” WOW…what a concept more people needed to hear him say that. I’m sorry that I’m babbling but this is good stuff. We had always talked about meeting in person one day to have a cold beer and talk country music. I love country music and Scott actually made me a CD and sent it to me by surprise. It was a combination of Redneck Country Women singers. I in return sent him one with some of my favorite Redneck Country Guy Singers. At Christmas he would always send out the Night Before Christmas thing and man I wish I still had a copy for I was expecting to receive it yet again this year. See what you get for expecting. I have learned not to take things for granted. I am in KY and have never had the chance to meet Scott in person but I can tell you that I know more about him and his family and friends b/c he spoke of you very often and when Scott spoke I listened like so many others. The reason that I listend wasn’t always because of what he was saying but rather how he said it and it was with real compassion and truth. He would rejoice with you and celebrate and he would cry right beside you as well. He was a true friend and even if you did not agree with him nor his ideas he respected your opinion and never made you feel bad. For instance when I was awarded the inside sales rep of the year Scott sent me a handcuff belt buckle. He sent it along with a card that stated…”A CJ belt buckle for a Redneck belt” Just b/c I’m from KY I would say doesn’t mean I’m a Redneck. He would ask do you drive a truck, “YES” Do you have horses, “YES” Do you know how to shoot a gun, “YES” OK then your a Redneck. Then when I had a terrible tragedy occur to my family in 2004 Scott was right there to console me. He would call to check in and if I didn’t sound like my cheery self he would take the time to listen and just support me. I am so going to miss him and his passion for life. I am so incredibly sorry that he is no longer here with us. Scott loved life and I’ve said it before he was so very proud of his two children, Kelsey and Ricky. Kelsey he was so worried about you at St. Olaf. He would call and speak with me about some issues and after your 1st year you took the bull by the horns and acted no longer like a rookie on campus. He was very proud of you. Gotta say all the runs that you and your Dad trained for were a GREAT bonding time. Boulder, Boulder and the St. Patrick’s Day and then your Marathon! WOW!! These are the good things in life that no one will be able to take away. Ricky…I must say no one was more proud of you when you organized the Hurricane Katrina aid than Scott. He was so very proud and sent pictures to me. He has provided you with the same giving spirit that he had. If you are able to help others do what you can and share. Going on vacation together just the two of you. He was so glad to be able to spend time with you. I can remember a story he told me once about how you were running late to school and he was going to be late to class but he told you to calm down and we will get you there. Just take your time because it was time he got to spend with you driving you to school. It was the little things that he held dear to his heart and all the rest just happened and fell into place. He has a WONDERFUL family to keep his spirit alive with all the values he has instilled within you.
Scott, you are so loved by so many people and it is through all of us that your memory will live on forever. Keep those angels on their toes up there with your witt and smiles.
October 3rd, 2008 at 6:39 am
How do you begin to write all of the thoughts, phrases and words that capture everything you would like say to and about Scott? Capture everything and it would probably be one of the greatest books ever written. A best-seller, just as Scott Harr was!
Thank you Scott for your life altering words of wisdom, dedication, passion and support! My life took a dynamic turn the moment I met you. My tribute to you is to “pay it forward.” Onward!
October 3rd, 2008 at 4:12 am
When I heard the news of Scott passing, I too was very saddened. I was part of MO 57 and I graduated from Concordia in May 2005 with my Masters’ degree. Scott Harr was one of many who assured me that things would work out fine when it came to a job change and how it related to school. I was stressed and very anxious. But I clearly remember his email in a sense saying “don’t worry it will all work out.This program is for you”. I will never forget him nor have I ever forgotten the experience I had at Concordia Univerisity. My sympathies, thoughts and prayers go out to Scott’s family and the students and faculty of Concordia University.
Terry McFarland
October 2nd, 2008 at 8:50 pm
Heather: What special memories.. Thank you – Sue (Scott’s sister)
October 2nd, 2008 at 6:55 pm
If only Scott could see the community he has created in the last few days! I am moved by the many gatherings on campus in his honor, as well as the “virtual” care and concern expressed through e-mails, guest books, and now–blogs.
Scott was a wonderful leader, boss, and friend. His creativity, innovation, and pioneering spirit allowed our program to push those boundaries that Heather mentions. His connectedness to people built so many strong relationships, I cannot even imagine the span of his influence in the lives of others.
I see Scott’s influence in us–in his family, colleagues, friends, and students. We are community reaching out with heartfelt support and making new connections, re-establishing old connections, or making existing ones stronger.
Thank you Scott–for stories, memories, lessons, and community.
October 2nd, 2008 at 5:23 pm
What I can I say that has not been said. I was one of Scott’s hand picked adjunct professors 6 years ago, and I will continue to work with the CSP family out of respect for him.
Scott and I would share laughs and complaints about our individual university administrators and long for the good ol’ days of driving a squad car.
Scott was my personal job coach, mentor, advisor, and friend. I am forever grateful for his wisdom and spirit.
October 2nd, 2008 at 4:53 pm
To my friend and colleague,
You were respected and admired by many. Two lasting memories I have of you is seeing you near the stage during two recent graduation ceremonies. You were instrumental in helping two commencement speakers complete their degrees with style and in grace. You were proud them and we were proud of you and them. Thank you for your love and commitment to student learning and well being.
You will be missed.
Your friend,
Steve
October 2nd, 2008 at 4:46 pm
I am deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of my friend Scott. At the same time I am grateful and blessed for having known him during the time he was here. He has made such an enormous impact on me. Scott is one of two people who I aspire to model myself after as a person and as a leader. Scott had integrity and character that is rare, with a larger than life personality. He is my teacher, my friend, and mentor. I will miss him. I will remember his great sense of humor, and all of the opportunities and support he has provided for me and my wife. He would often comment on the bond between law enforcement officers, and it feels like I have lost my partner. He was always excited to share his love for my Korean culture and diversity. I take comfort in knowing that he is in heaven watching over us now, and that he continues to live through his family, colleagues, friends and students. Scott would tell us there is tomorrow, and he would let us all know, ONWARD! I will never forget J. Scott Harr. God Bless you my friend.
October 2nd, 2008 at 4:44 pm
Scott put me where I am today. I would not be in this program at Concordia with out him]. I will always think of him especially when I graduate and take the LSAT’s. Peace be with you and your family Scott.
October 2nd, 2008 at 3:49 pm
I only knew Scott through my Master’s program at Concordia (MA251),but felt as though I knew him well. He was a fantasic instructor with a laid back demeanor that was contagious.
I had the opportunity to speak with Scott a couple months back over the telephone about a promotional process I was going through. He took the time to speak with me for almost an hour, even though we had never met in person!
Scott’s attitude towards life is something I will strive to emulate as we all move forward.
“Onward!”
October 2nd, 2008 at 3:03 pm
http://pages.teamintraining.org:80/mn/twin08/kharr
is the webpage for the run that Kelsy was doing on Sunday Oct 5th. Just wanted everyone to know.
Information on memorials have not been shared with us yet at this point.
October 2nd, 2008 at 1:49 pm
“No, Scott is fine…I just talked to him.” I am among many who responded this way when they received the news of Scott’s passing this week. Perhaps part of the inability to comprehend is because of the multiple roles he played in everyone’s lives. For me he was my colleague, my bulldog legal advisor, my mentor, my friend, #7 on my speed dial. He always said “call me anytime of the day or night”. And I did. And he was always there for me. I also always knew that when he called me and started with “you know that I value you as a colleague and friend…” that we were either in for a really spirited debate, or an innovative brainstorm (I preferred the latter!).
One such brainstorm led us to devise a way for a student to complete their capstone dialogue in a new way. At the end of it, the faculty, the student and I were all in tears. I remember Mike Conner saying “and they say you can’t connect in distance learning”. It was easily the most moving and meaningful experience of my career. That is what Scott did. He pushed boundaries and anything else he had to, all in the interest of the people he cared about. I will miss you Chief, and I will never forget you.