Duck Ponderings: Untimely death reveals the heart of Hope

All of us remember hearing and reading the shocking and sad news about Trevor “T.J.” Frazee, a Hauser senior, dying suddenly of a blood clot at the beginning of this school year. Even though I did not have Trevor as a student in fifth grade due to my retirement, I was fortunate to have his dad, Brad.

I attended Trevor's funeral. Norman's Funeral Home was full. I was one of several standing. Many Hauser students were there. Pastors Andy Kilps and Dennis Chasteen, and parents too, did an outstanding job in officiating Trevor's Celebration of Life.

His obituary stated: “Trevor was a member of the Hauser FFA and a previous member of the Young Marines and 4-H. He worked for some local farmers. Trevor loved hunting, fishing, and the outdoors. He always had a smile and was loved by all his friends and family.”

While talking with his friends, I also found out that Trevor loved diesel trucks. During the service, I got the sense he would have used his truck to help me or another person in a difficult situation.

One comment that struck me was hearing how Trevor would act as a protector and be a true friend to those who felt like they were being bullied by others.

Another one was how Trevor would often go to the cemetery to visit his mom, Tanya Covert Frazee, after her fight with cancer.

I was touched by Trevor's obviously good heart and the heart of the community, and I can understand why his grandmother, Teresa Covert, wishes to thank the community in a letter from her heart:

“I was lucky enough to be born in Bartholomew County. I graduated from Hauser High School in 1968. I have been proud of my school always. The community has always been good to me. But this year, I saw and experienced a new side of Hope.

“My grandson, Trevor Frazee, died August 23, 2018 of a massive blood clot. The Hope Fire Department and others were quick to respond to Trevor's problems. A counselor from the high school came to the hospital to check on the situation. Officials wanted to give the students true information about his death. They made sure that every student at the school knew what was going on. Thank you Hauser High School!

“Then, the community made sure that we had everything that we needed for his burial. The community raised money for his gravestone. They made sure that we were fed after the funeral. Hope Moravian and Petersville United Methodist churches deserve thanks. We were prayed over, visited, and showered with cards of sympathy. They provided counselors for the students.

“The Hope FFA came to the funeral in dress uniforms. The members stayed after the funeral meal, cleaned up, and put the Moravian Church back in order.

“These past months have been very difficult. But thankfully we live in Hope. An amazing, surprising and wonderful little town. Hope's generosity and outpouring of love are appreciated.”

As someone who attempts to write now and then about the specialness of Hope, I really can't think of a better ending!