Loss

We are all affected by the loss of two teens in our community. Connor Ausland and Jack Harnsongkram’s lives were cut short by a sneaker wave on the Oregon Coast. Both seniors at South Eugene High School, they were leaders in the school and well liked by all.

There has been an outpouring of support given to the families of the boys. Within days of the tragedy, students came together to show support by wearing white t-shirts with the number 35 on the front, and Connor and Jacks’ name on the back. Connor as a member of the varsity basketball team wore the number 35. South basketball games have been overflowing in white. Not only are South students wearing the t-shirts, adults of students, and students from other high schools are wearing the shirts to pay tribute to Jack and Connor. The sea of white can leave one speechless, one of those “wow” moments.

While M Squared Printing, a company owned and operated by South student and co owner Tyler Marquardt, seems to have been instrumental in starting the white t-shirt memorial movement, Willamette Valley Screen Print and Embroidery (WVSE) helped pick up the slack due to the high demand. Missy jumped in as well and became instrumental in acquiring additional white shirts for WVSE to print so they could be sold at Sheldon for kids to wear at the Sheldon vs. South varsity basketball game, Friday, February 11. Again, another sea of white was created. It was an honor for KAP Art to be able to participate in their tribute by making shirts available to the Sheldon community. All proceeds went directly to the families.

It is amazing how we all come together in times of grief, and loss. I did not know Jack or Connor, but their loss has affected all of us at KAP Art. Their loss will continue to affect Eugene and neighboring communities for years to come, and they will forever be held in the hearts of all who knew them, and those who did not.

Continued support can be given through contributions set-up by the families:

A memorial scholarship fund has been created to honor Connor, awarded to a South Eugene High School scholar athlete who best exemplifies Connor's compassionate commitment to learning, athletics and community service. Donations can be made in his name to: The Oregon Community Foundation, 440 E. Broadway, Suite 160, Eugene, OR 97401 or on the Foundation's web site at www.oregoncf.org .

The Harnsongkram family requests donations be sent to Food for Lane County, ShelterCare or the Eugene Education Fund in Jack's name.