Sunday, September 13, 2009

An Everyday Hero of Whom You've Never Heard

Yesterday I received news that my friend, mentor, and a hero to countless others across the country passed away. Whether Jeff was launching yet another non-profit organization to help people in need, drumming up support for a cause with me by poking his finger into the chest of a corporate bigwig, asking his son Jarrod about the lessons learned in school that day, or letting loose with me for some well-deserved fun in Las Vegas or at an Ohio State football game amongst a throng of a hundred thousand college students ... Jeff did everything at 110%. Everything. That was Jeff in a nutshell. He was either sleeping or was full speed ahead.

He and I had many adventures together both in business and regular life. I miss him already. Godspeed, friend.

Jeff Hay
1961 - 2009


1 comment:

Barnaby said...

I guess this is a little late...I just heard of Jeff's passing today. I had the honor of working with him through a class project for Otterbein College. I had to do a presentation in front of the MAP Board & Jeff knew I was nervous. He told me to find a pair of crazy, funny socks and wear them to take my mind off of the anxiety of presenting. I put on my socks that day and headed to the meeting. To my surprise, Jeff lifted his pant leg and showed me that he too was wearing a pair of crazy socks. I will never forget Jeff and his 'sage advice'. I know it has been a year since his passing, but I am sure his friends and family are still missing him dearly. Every time I put on a pair of crazy socks I will think of Jeff, a good man, gone too soon. RIP Jeff