At the time it absolutely stunned the media community in Kansas City and beyond.
The news spread like wild-fire that respected Fox 4 meteorologist Don Harman had committed suicide one year ago on Thursday (11/29).
He was just 41 and had worked on the morning news show since April 1999. He had replaced Gary Lezak, who had moved to KSHB-TV.
The news of Harman’s death sent ripples of shock throughout Kansas City. Viewers—who had come to enjoy his wild antics on the morning show—felt they had lost a close friend. They only later learned Harman had suffered from depression.
He left a wife, Monica, and daughter, Avery. Reportedly, there was a mention of the anniversary on Thursday’s show.
Fox employees refused to comment on the anniversary of his death, but Toby Cook, who worked with Harman before joining the Kansas City Royals, posted his thoughts on Facebook.
“Last night - out of the blue, really - Don popped into my head and I thought about his life,” wrote Cook. “A good friend to me. An hour later, it was a viewer who told me we were at the day. I don’t think it was a coincidence. Like a year ago, minutes later, I was laughing and the many great memories. Love you and yours, MJH.”
Here was a tribute video of Don Harman put together by Fox 4 producer Rob Zerwekh:
IRONIC
It’s ironic in a sense, but Jim Fitzpatrick, formerly of The Star, posted something on his blog Thursday: the death by suicide of a friend of his daughter. The girl, whose obituary appeared in the paper on Wednesday, was only 20. How sad!
ANOTHER SUICIDE
Now one year later, we’re just getting news of another suicide, by Chiefs player Jovan Belcher
KNOWS THE FEELING
I know the feeling like Don had… Broke, son who will not allow me to see my grandchildren,
no job for four years, having to sell prized collection just to live and make ends meet and no no money until disability payment 12/26… Not a happy time and life for me, But with few friends, out there it is awful, and the fact is nobody cares one bit… Not one single bit. I have had about enough, believe me !
Thanks
BOTELLO FAN?
I’ll never forget the disgusting display Tony Botello put on over Don’s death.
Botello is an embarrassment to humanity.
DO NOT ABANDON HOPE
Dear LAC: I am deeply saddened by the painful situation you appear to be in. But, please do not abandon hope. People do care, it is just that they often don’t know how bad things are going for you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help-it will be provided if you ask for it. Take care-May God bless you. Sincerely, Respectfully and In Christ, Ernest Evans