It came to my attention that one of CelticsBlog's members, kgiessler, passed away last Saturday. While we generally don't reveal the identity of our members or give details about their personal lives, I wanted to allow other members to pay their respects.
Here's a story on Kurt's passing:
http://www.wickedlocal.com/plymouth/features/x866122488/THE-GOOD-FIGHT-Kurt-Giessler-settles-final-battle-on-his-own-terms#axzz234XeWtN2kgiessler has been a member here since at least early 2007. He was always one of our most articulate and thoughtful members. Most of us had no idea what he was going through, or what struggles he had conquered. I didn't know Kurt personally, but he seems like a remarkable man.
Reading through some of his final posts, this one struck me:
Seriously though, how great of a kid is he. Most kids (and adults?) after watching their team lose are pouty and tantrum-ish.
He keeps his own spirits up and is thoughtful enough to cheer up his players.
It is easy for us to take the facetious interpretation of it, but there is nothing but innocence and goodwill there.
He was talking about the "good job, good effort" kid, cheering on his Heat team after their Game 5 loss. Rather than venting in frustration or resorting to mockery, Kurt focused on the good in humanity, and the innocence of youth. While he loved the Celtics, Kurt's first passion seems to have been education and the children he taught. I know this sounds trite, but I will miss him.
If you're interested in making a donation in Kurt's memory, you can contact the Kurt Giessler Foundation for Youth Achievement, c/o P.O. Box 860, Plymouth, MA 02362.