Michael Harris’s legacy is remembered by family friend Maudie Frye. Photo courtesy of Larry Frye.

Maudie Frye | Staff Reporter

“The more opportunity we are gifted to reflect on my older brother’s graciousness and character, the more we’ll uncover the legacy he leaves,” David Harris, Michael’s brother, said. Having been well loved in the Menlo community, many mourn the loss of Michael Harris and cherish the memories they had with him.

Trying to articulate the pain of the situation seems so insignificant, but through these words I am able to grieve. Michael has been apart of my family for as long as I can remember. Having been near the delivery room on the day I was born, he always treated me like the younger sister he never had. Michael had been my brothers’ best friend since preschool. Having gone to Phillips Brooks grammar school, and Menlo Middle and Upper School together, they continued to develop their everlasting friendship. He always offered a helping hand, an uplifting piece of advice, or a smile when I was down. One of his closest friends, Jack Mosbacher, will always remember Michael by his endless kindness. “Kindness flowed out of Michael like a rushing river and swept up anyone lucky enough to cross his path,” Mosbacher said.

Michael’s playful nature was what I admired the most, as he teased me as much as my real brother did. He would always pick on me about having a “crush” on many of their friends. In my younger years, I was known for throwing a good tantrum, many due to his playful harassment. “Maude, you’re not the sun, the whole world doesn’t revolve around you,” Michael would tell me. Although, this didn’t stop me from butting in where I was wasn’t wanted, including their weekly sleepovers.

I remember each Christmas, my family and I would go to the Harris’ house for Christmas sing-alongs and a good game of White Elephant gift exchange. No matter how embarrassing it might have been, Michael would always sing the loudest, trying to encourage others to have as much fun as he was having. It brings me comfort to know that on the eve of his death, Michael was living life to the fullest, waiting two hours at a bar to sing his favorite karaoke song. “Michael was doing what he always did, living life to the fullest and making everyone around him smile” Max Frye, his best friend, said. I know while watching over us he is continuing to sing his loudest and wishes for us to celebrate his wonderful, although short life. We love you, Michael.