When I was in fourth grade at St Sebastian's grade school in Pittsburgh, I won a reading contest. The prize was a party aboard The Good Ship Lollipop with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Each of us had our own Steeler host, and mine was Franco Harris. I remember that he was incredibly kind and soft-spoken and very interested in talking about books. I've carried that memory with me forever, and am so sad to hear that my "friend" has passed away. May God bless and keep his memory and may his family find comfort in their grief.
What a sweet memory!
ReplyDeleteIf he could be so kind to a random child at the height of his career, he must have continued like that all his life. I'm sure you are not alone in sending loving memories to him and his family. Until now I'd never even heard of the Steelers, and now I'll never forget them!
ReplyDeleteWe remember that great moment.. My husband was a great fan
ReplyDeleteas many who vicariously were members of the "Italian Army" Franco was a handsome and good man. Gone too soon.
What a beautiful memory to have and to treasure, Coni!
ReplyDeleteOne of the great players and good men in pro football back then. It's so cool you got to meet him.
ReplyDeleteHow am I only now realizing you at least partially grew up in Pgh?! Wish you were still out this way! Although I read you posts regularly, I don’t comment very often…but, I still feel like we’re friends and I’d like it if you lived nearby. -NerdGirl Nicole
ReplyDeleteAbout Franco…that’s an awesome memory!!!! Happy for you and jealous too…they can coexist, right? Lol. As I read your “soft-spoken” part, I can totally hear his voice…very true.
Delete👆also from NG Nicole
ReplyDeleteWow!!! What a terrific memory. With the passing of Franco Harris may we all be reminded the difference care, compassion and kindness make in this world
ReplyDeleteAmy in NJ …I grew up near Pittsburgh
I live about 9 miles from St Sebastian school and my son graduated from ND in 1995. So I think we have a tiny connection. But your comment about Franco being soft spoken sealed it. I literally ran into him at the corner of LibertyAve and 7th St. and we each said Hi and smiled. You ok he asked gently. I sure was. Now sad that this great man is gone.
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