“GOOD MORNING”

A Tribute to Prof. John C. Sieg, Jr.

March 10, 1952 – December 30, 2005

Jesse M. Heines

January 3, 2006
I wrote this poem for John’s memorial service as I contemplated how difficult it would be to carry on at the university without John as our colleague, and for his family to carry on without his presence.

Good morning, class, I’m here to say
There won’t be a database lesson today.
The professor got called to catch an early train,
Yet how this can be I could never explain.

Good morning, students, I’m here to advise
Though none of us would claim to be wise
Or to know all the shoals of the university’s seas
Like the man on the train that slowly recedes.

Good morning, colleagues, I’m here to convene
A discussion on courses and requirements lean.
But trying to go on without John’s guiding hand
Is like taking a train through an uncharted land.

Good morning, Linda, I’m here to console
The loss of the mate who so captured your soul.
A man known by many, but special to you so
May you be warmed by the memories that only you know.

Good morning, Megan, I’m here ... to be here.
Would we could bring back what you held so dear.
We know how John loved you, no one has to guess
That having you as his daughter made him feel truly blessed.

Good morning, John, I’m here to grieve
As the train blows its last whistle and you have to leave.
The years were too short, the days were too few,
We’ve a hole in our hearts that a train could drive through.

John Sieg


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