My prayer is this webpage becomes a place where you can share your favorite things about Geoff and how he & his family have touched your life. And I hope this will help us all to heal, as we grieve the loss of such an amazing individual...
Blessings on you
When I came to town in fourth grade, Geoff was assigned by our teacher to give me a tour of the campus and introduce me around. Even at that age, Geoff was a patient, caring, and soothing soul.
ReplyDeleteOur "little brothers" are the same age, and the four of us played after school.
He helped me get rides home from soccer practice when I needed it, and I covered his newspaper route when he needed it. He was a quiet and reliable friend.
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Geoff,
I know I've have been out of touch and learning of your passing has been a shock.
We all miss you and your comforting nature.
I have no doubt that upon your arrival into Heaven, you were informed that for all your love and good deeds that the rent was free.
The angels have a new role model.
Adam
I feel very fortunate to have gotten the chance to reconnect with the Haskel family when we moved to Pleasanton 4 years ago. Geoff was the youth pastor at the church were my son went to preschool (the kids LOVED him)and we share the same swim team and elementary school.
ReplyDeleteThe Haskel's are such a warm, friendly and courageous family. Geoff and Kendra always make you feel special. Geoff touched the lives of everyone he met and will be greatly missed.
Molly Falcione
When you had a conversation with Geoff, he had this amazing way of making you feel like you were the only thing in the whole world that mattered to him in that moment. His intentional eye contact and attentiveness let you know that he was listening and that he genuinely cared.
ReplyDeleteI remember doing ministry with Geoff, and often times I would look across the room to see him engaged this way with someone, and I always thought to myself, "I wonder what has Geoff so captivated over there?" The answer was quite simply the person he was talking to.
He loved to listen people tell their stories. He loved to ask questions to follow up on what was being said. He always let people finish, never hurrying or rushing them to the end. (This could be a bummer if you were waiting for a ride home :)
For me this was Geoff's most Christ-like quality. And one I hope to emulate in my own life. I will take you with me wherever I go my friend. You are an inspiration to me. See you soon.
Love, Erik
What I remember most about Geoff was his infectious energy. From sports to plays to ski trips with him he had an energy that was amazing and positive. Then he would counteract that movement with total focus on any conversation you had with him. Like Erik said it was like you were the most important person in the room right then. I'll keep that with me...thoughts and prayers to his family.
ReplyDeleteBrian Zalewski
Geoff was one of my closest friends during grade school. We used to battle all the time on the teather ball court. As we grew older, that competitiveness moved to beach volleyball. Geoff was always a competitor in everything he did. We used to collect baseball cards and played fantasy baseball. I remember receiving a box of Donruss baseball cards 7 years after I had last talked to him. He found it, got my address, and sent them to me. Geoff "Eddie" Haskell will always be a thoughtful person known for his smile and laughter. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
ReplyDeletei will always think of geoff as one of the most encouraging and EXPRESSIVE people i have ever met. everything about him - his eyes, his hands, his smile, his nodding head, his words - seemed to root others on when they were speaking, sharing, communicating. even in the last year when he was sick, he encouraged me. went out of his way to do so.
ReplyDeletelike erik said, the christlikeness of geoff enthusiastically "being for" others is something so significant...in the very image of God.
kendra, kate, matt and emily...you were geoff's treasures here on earth. his beloved. you are loved by a wonderful man.
One of the things I can remember about Geoff from an early age was his sense of humor - how Geoff, Jeff Rubenstien and I would make videos of us re-enacting our favorite SNL skits. And how much we loved laughing at all that SNL genius form that era.
ReplyDeleteMusic too - as his was my lab partner in science in 7th grade, we would talk constantly about how great David Lee Roth's 'Skyscraper' was and would be constantly singing lyrics for that.
Funny too cause just 4 months ago I was flipping through records at my local shop and found that record in vinyl, bought it, and blasted it and it totally made me think of him and smile.
People touch your life and it lasts forever.
- Andy Kahn
It is so neat to read the comments written by Geoff's friends, as I agree with so much of what was written about his personality, ability to encourage, and the joy that he expressed when talking to others. I had the opportunity to work alongside Geoff for a short season of life in the youth ministry at MVPC. We had fun! As I remember back to that time, I think of Geoff's organization, planning, and intentionality to be a blessing to those kids and families. He was so natural at making others feel special and valued. He was always kind, encouraging, and looking for the best in everyone...what a neat man. I'm so thankful to have known him.
ReplyDeleteGeoff was consistently the most positive person in my life. Always looking for the opportunity in any difficult situation, he reminded often how blessed I am and how grateful I ought to be. Never in a preachy "why don't you appreciate you have" kind of way, but rather in a gentle, encouraging reminder from a friend, who sees the joys in the life of someone he loves, and wants them to focus on those blessings instead of the troubles at hand.
ReplyDeleteDuring a recent visit, Geoff and I went to the driving range to hit some golf balls. As we swung our clubs, we talked about the simple joys in life, memories from school days and our testimonies about how we each came to faith. It was a bitter sweet moment, and I knew would most likely be our last chance to enjoy a game we had played many times during our friendship.
I had just switched clubs to a 3 iron, when Geoff headed back to the golf bag to grab his driver and watch me hit. After a couple of practice swings, I stepped up and launched a monstrous divot and the ball about ten feet. It was one of those embarrassing “OHMYGOSH WHO JUST SAW THAT!?!” moments and I whipped around frantically to see who had witnessed my duff. I looked back to Geoff, who said with perfect comedic timing, “Good Tempo...” We both burst out laughing.
This is the perfect metaphor for how Geoff encouraged me throughout our friendship. The perfect blend of humor and warmth while always looking for the positive in whatever was going down. I will always hear “good tempo” in my head every time I miss the mark in life, and certainly every time I miss the ball on the golf course.
Though the news of Geoff's passing is very sad, it doesn't take long before the thought of Geoff brings a smile to my face. Geoff will be missed by many and whether you knew him for a shorter period of time or you knew him for a longer period of time the sentiment remains the same - what a genuinely kind and caring person Geoff was. Geoff made the people around do better and that is an effect he will have for a long long time.
ReplyDeleteI hope the Carey and Haskell family can draw strength from what will surely be an abundance of support.
Thomas Lyhne
Even though we shared many experiences in class and on the baseball field throughout junior high and high school, I don't have a specific memory of Geoff - just a warm, happy feeling that resonates throughout my spirit when I think back to his constant smile and easy laugh.
ReplyDeleteHs irrepressible sense of humor, the great joy he took in life, were contagious.
In a time of awkward teenage insecurities and uncertainties amidst the fishbowl that is high school, you never wondered where you stood with Easy Eddie Haskell. He was the kind've guy you always wanted to be around - one of the happiest and most genuinely kind and authentic people i've ever come across.
Geoff is a friend I will always look up to. He has been a mentor, a brother, and a loyal friend for many years. I deeply miss his presence, his laughter and his encouragement, but I know that his legacy and impact will carry on far beyond this lifetime. I admire the way he lived his life for so many reasons. He was a person of amazing integrity - what he said and how he lived were in total agreement. He was a learner - Geoff was always learning something new about life, God, or the Bible and sharing that with others. I loved to watch how Geoff prioritized relationships with his family and friends over everything else in life. He always had time for people, to listen, to encourage, to share life together with those he loved. His faith in God is still so inspiring to me. Throughout his battle with cancer Geoff would send me a text of a lyric from a song we both enjoyed - "All of my life, in every season, you are still God, I have a reason to sing, I have a reason to worship". I loved Geoff's perspective on life and his undying hope in God's plan and God's love even through the darkest valley while at the same time being real with his feelings of disappointment and fear. Geoff could always see a reason for singing and being thankful for what God had given him.
ReplyDeleteSome of my favorite times with Geoff were had over a bottle of Chimay during our time in Seminary where we would reflect on life, ministry, and what were learning together. He helped me slow down, look around and appreciate each moment in life. There is a deep sense of loss in my life, but I am thankful for all the seasons of life and memories we were able to share together. Thank you Geoff. We will see each other soon.
I want to pass on my condolences to Kendra and the kids, along with the Haskell and Carey families.
ReplyDeleteWhen I think of Geoff I picture us on the baseball field and how happy he always was. I have never lost the memory of us as 10 year olds, and Geoff was on the Giants in mustang. It was on the pinto field and saw that smooth lefty swing hit a grand slam. I wasn't even playing that game, just hanging around the field watching, as we all did. I still see Geoff's big smile running down the third baseline knowing that he was going ot score without a play at the plate and the free ice cream at Baskins Robbins was now all his.
Keep
Blessed are they that mourn; for they shall be comforted. Matthew 5:4
ReplyDeleteGeoff was the light in my life throughout junior high and high school. The youth group he led at MVPC will forever remain some of the fondest memories I have. The friends and relationships formed through youth leadership, team building in Mexico, confirmation, etc. are ones that still remain today. The passing of Geoff was so difficult to hear and made my heart sink. He had this way about him that left you with a smile. Although I have lost touch with him and his family, his influence on my life is everlasting, and I cannot be more blessed to have had him present during those challenging adolescent years.
A million times we needed you,
A million times we cried,
If love alone would have saved you,
You would of never died.
In life we loved you dearly,
In death we love you still,
In our hearts you hold a place,
No one can ever fill.
A light from our household is gone,
A voice from our love is stilled,
A place in our vacant home,
Which never can be filled.
Some may think you are forgotten,
Though on earth you are no more,
But in our memory you are with us,
As you always were before.
It broke our hearts to lose you,
But you did not go alone,
A part of us went with you,
The day God called you home.
Your precious memories are for keepsakes,
with which we never part,
God has you safely in his keeping,
But we have you forever in our hearts
With Love,
Meredith
I didn't know Geoff in high school... more just knew of him from a distance. But as I read these comments, one thing stands out about him and that one thing is Jesus. Geoff called Jesus his Savior, his Comforter, his Friend. Jesus is the reason for Geoff's joy, his infectious smile, his undivided attention in a conversation. Jesus is the reason that Geoff could sing the song posted in a previous comment.
ReplyDeleteIf you're reading this blog, and you knew Geoff, but have never known this Jesus that Geoff called Savior, Comforter, and Friend, PLEASE contact someone that you're comfortable talking to, and ask them to share with you. Aside from Geoff's family and friends knowing how he cherished them and loved them, I know Geoff would want you to know Jesus.
I didn't grow up in a Christian family and never attended church as a child. I started attending MVPC as a sophomore in high school... primarily just to attend the trip to Mexico.
ReplyDeleteGeoff introduced me to Jesus. He prayed the Prayer that brought me into the Kingdom of Heaven. He held my hand and showed me how to walk with My Savior, which I still do in a very passionate manner.
I haven’t seen Geoff in 10 years … so the impact his death had on me was surprising. But I look back on how my life has changed since that Prayer and how much a part of my EVERY day that Jesus is, and I don’t even know how to explain the gratitude I feel towards the man who first taught me how to get there. Or the loss I feel after hearing of his death.
I can't imagine how many other high-schoolers were affected by Geoff the way I was. I hope his family knows how many kids Geoff brought to the Lord and how many lives he effected in a way that will last forever.
You’re legacy is undeniable Geoff and you’ll be greatly missed down here. Thanks for introducing me to Jesus. Tell Him I say hi.
When I think about Geoff, I remember the constant sparkle in his eyes. I also remember how that sparkle grew brighter whenever he looked at Kendra.
ReplyDeleteMany here have commented on his infectious energy and I would have to agree. It was hard being in his presence and not smile or laugh with him. He was an encouragement to all who met him and made everyone around him feel special.
My heart and prayers go out to his family. May they all feel the love and support of those of us who have been touched by Geoff in some way.
Gretchen Lee Salter
when i first met geoff i only knew him as kendra's boyfriend. but it didn't take long for me to see that she had picked a GOOD one! his eyes sparkled and his smile could light up a room. and as i got to know him more and more over the years, i grew to love and respect him like an older brother. he would encourage me, he would make me laugh until i peed in my pants, and he spoke God's truth clearly and boldly.
ReplyDeletelong before i had a husband, or even a boyfriend for that matter, i looked to geoff as a model of what to look for! kendra and geoff were always an open book with me..speaking honestly about their relationship with each other and with the Lord. i learned so much from walking alongside them. i will be eternally grateful for the time we spent together in ministry and as friends.
i pray that the Lord will cover kendra, their kids, and their families with his unending comfort, grace and love.
I remember Geoff could sing. I never could. Geoff of course was more than willing to help me find the right note. Thus is the metaphor for the way he lived. He sang his days, and for those that would sing along he would aid, until they hit the right note.
ReplyDeleteGeoff was a serious smiler. I mean that literally. He smiled even when he was serious. And I believe he took his smiling seriously, understanding it fully for the gift that it was.
I now realize that somewhere in the back of my head I've had this unarticulated idea that nothing bad would ever happen to Geoff. He was just too happy. As if bad things, understanding how impotent they would be to touch his heart, would simply somehow not bother. Such was the force of goeff's ebullience that I carried this absurdity in my unconscious the entirety of my adult life. Of course, now that I know how wrong I've been I'm sure he faced tragedy with the same courage and utter disregard for despair that inspired everyone who can brag of ever having known him.
As I've grown older I have become much more agnostic. When I was younger I had the the faith of a child, and no doubt there are those reading this who would count such faith as wisdom. They may be right for I make no claim to wisdom. But I do hold dear to hope. And I hope Geoff, to see your big goofy grin again, in an ever autumn orchard of another world after this present struggle has faded like mist from an unremembered dream.
You were a prince among men and will be remembered as such.
As I read through these comments about Geoff, I am crying -- nose bright red, tears streaming down my face. At the same time, I am laughing hearty, joyous laughs at the memories Geoff has left us with. "Good tempo." I love that! There are very few people I can think of in this world who could make me cry my worst cry and laugh my most sincere laugh all at the same time. In fact, I can think of only one other person, my little brother, who was profoundly influenced by Geoff during the most formative years of his life. I am so thankful for Geoff's influence on him.
ReplyDeleteI love Erik's tributes to Geoff. I think of Geoff in a similar way -- when you spoke with him, he made you feel like the only person who existed. Such an encourager. In fact, I use Geoff as an example when I teach Interpersonal Communication. My students and I discuss what it is that lets a person know you're listening. It's not just the mechanics: the eye contact, the not interrupting, the leaning forward. It's the smiling and understanding eyes. The sparkle. The follow up questions at that moment and days later.
Geoff's presence told us that we are loved. Geoff's words explained the mystery behind that love. Oh, the ache that his family and friends are feeling. I pray that God's hand is on them now.
My prayers are with Kendra and all of Geoff's family today. My memories of Geoff are coming alive as I think of the wonderful leadership and kindness he showed me when I was in that awkward stage of adolescence. I'm far removed physically from the Haskell's now, but my thoughts are very close to them today.
ReplyDeleteKendra and family,
ReplyDeleteTruly, Geoff was an amazing man. He had his priorities straight: God first, family second, career third. His smile revealed who he was on the inside, and never have I known someone with a more positive outlook than Geoff.
He had such a huge impact on my life, and on so many others.
As a high school student, whenever Geoff would write me or others an encouraging word, he would always include the text from Jeremiah 29:11 in his note:
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Little did any of us know that his own future on earth would be cut so short, and his future in heaven would begin so soon.
Some people need sickness to teach them how to treasure life: Geoff didn't. Geoff lived like each day was a gift from God.
I'm so thankful for the chance to know him as a friend, as I know so many are. We are praying for you and for Kate, Matthew, and Emily, and while we grieve, we know that Geoff is experiencing true freedom now.
I feel really humbled to add something to this page because there are so many people who have known Geoff for so much longer and in such a deeper way. But as so many have mentioned before, Geoff had that way of impacting people even through just one interaction.
ReplyDeleteI had the privilege to intern with Geoff one summer at MVPC when I was in college and this experience was formative in my decision to pursue youth ministry. Geoff had an infectious smile and his eyes always lit up when he talked to you. I always wondered how he could constantly have a smile on his face, even when things went wrong. I realize now that this smile came from a true and real joy that could come from no other place except from the knowledge that he is a beloved son of God.
Geoff, I'm blessed to have known you in this life and am comforted knowing your smile is still shining down upon me. :-)
-Andy Berkes
Haskell Family---
ReplyDeleteI attended Geoff's service today with my family, and after only knowing him from soccer games, swim team, and school, I felt the loss that everyone in the room also felt. The service was heartwarming for me, as I knew that Geoff had touched the hearts of many and had gone to a place where he would heal well. I felt that he as a person had made an impact on the people around him, teaching the follow the footsteps of the Lord and bring a smile to even a stranger's face. I am sad to see him go, but warmed at the heart by what he has left for everyone.
Haskell family, your courage is amazing. You have such strength and hope in this situation, and even though times may be hard, you can still smile. You are a family that I know of as one of kindness, respect, and love for your community and friends. You have touched the hearts of many.
With My Hope To You,
Sophia Holbrook
6th Grader
Harvest Park Middle School
Today's service was a wonderful tribute to an extraordinary young man. He left us all way too soon, yet his impact upon his family, friends, and community are inspiring to each of us. I rejoice that he is in heaven, singing and rejoicing. In addition to this blob and the memories that were written at the church, friends are putting together "Daddy Memories' books" for the children. If you have a special memory of Geoff please write it and email it to marthadels@aol.com. If you want to include photos, you can also mail it to Marty Stewart, 12 Bien Venida, Orinda, CA 94563. We will photocopy each email/letter so each child has his/her own book. As you can imagine, this will be very meaningful to them, especially as they get older. Please send emails/photos by July 1. Thank you for contributing to this memory book.
ReplyDeleteGeoff was a special person. He was a witness to the strength of the Lord everywhere he went. I watched him and Kendra grow up at MVPC, and I knew that there was something special about them. Later, when Geoff served as Senior High Director, he was a powerful positive influence in the lives of many students.
ReplyDeleteGeoff was an example of how we all should live. He is in his Heavenly Home now, and we all miss him. Praise God for Geoff's powerful witness.
Knowing Geoff only in high school, my first impression (critique) of him was that he didn't take anything seriously. Of course, I was in the middle of taking a lot of things (especially school) a bit TOO seriously, and in the years to come Geoff and his (my) friends taught me a lot about joy, about lightening up, and about loving the company of friends, making them part of your family. He also showed me how to be a reckless snowboarder, with his enviable Craig Kelly Mystery Air snowboard. What I didn't realize when I knew him, but learned through mutual friends in the years since, is that Geoff knew very well how to take things seriously, and exactly which things deserve to be taken seriously--namely, family and faith. The secret knowledge that Geoff was born with --that was literally written on his face in The form of that illuminating grin--is that seriousness and joy can and ought to be simultaneous. That a joyful attitude is the surest way to give anyone or anything your fullest attention and devotion. He showed that devotion to God, to his family, and through example, to all who had the good fortune of knowing him.
ReplyDeleteGeoff, you inspired me, guided me, and helped me more than you probably realized.
ReplyDeleteYou had an incredible ability to listen and help others.
I miss you Geoff, but know your in a better place now.
Geoff Haskell, i don't really know where to begin. From the short time that I knew him I was amazed at his joy for life, family and church. He has touched many with simple words of wisdom that came from the heart. He taught me to never take life for granted. While reading more about his journey through life, I have learned to trust,believe and love God. Kendra as my tennis coach has taught me many lessons that I will carry through out life. She is an amazing woman who has gone through a lot in the past year. Her strength and love for her kids is incredible. Matt Em & Kate are the sweetest kids that always have a smile no their face just like Kendra & Geoff always had. Geoff is in a better place now and we pray for his family every day.
ReplyDeleteFoothill Tennis Team will never forget the memories we have shared as a team with Geoff<3
From the bottoms of our hearts we miss you.