Our Family's Story

Our Family's Story

Sunday, February 17, 2013

A Day At Work




I believe there are angels among us. We were able to spend time with some of them last Wednesday at the Idaho State Tax Commission.



Our good friends Carol & Linda
Glenn went to Boise State University and majored in Information Science. While a student, he worked as an intern for Senator Mike Mitchell of the Legislature. He graduated from college in 3 1/2 years in the Honors Program and continued working for the State of Idaho. He has been a true Public Servant to the state for 35 years, and since May 1981 it has been with the Tax Commission.


Certificate from the Commissioners
To honor Glenn, the Tax Commission had a retirement party on February 6th. Glenn had been apprehensive about having a get-together for several reasons. We had met with the doctor a few days before and she told Glenn one of the greatest blessings was that he would be able to say good bye to those he cares about. With that, he was ready to make it happen. A huge thanks to Roxanne for organizing it with such short time frames!

We love the amazing Roxanne!

One of the hardest things for Glenn since he was diagnosed was leaving work. It was a big motivator while in the Rehabilitation Unit to regain his strength and mobility so he could get back to work. He loves his job and the people he works with. He knew it would be very hard to say those good byes.


Some of the amazing IT staff!
The night before he was wondering what he would wear. After four months of living in sweat pants, I thought Dockers might be going all out! The next morning however he went into his closet and instead of getting what I had suggested, he chose his dress slacks, shirt and tie and his suit coat.  When I looked at him with that “Are you sure?” look, he simply said, “Well, I am going to work!”  I’m pretty sure Glenn has worn a tie and suit coat to work for the past 35 years. This day would be no exception.

The party was just what the doctor ordered! Although the steroids are doing an incredible job relieving the swelling in the brain, they are havoc on his emotions. It was so good for Glenn to visit with his friends and co-workers and he was deeply touched and appreciative of everyone’s kind words and expressions. I must admit, it was very emotional for me, and still is, (which is why this post has been so hard to finish!) that I was wishing I could blame my tears on steroids too!


Mark with the "Cliff Notes" version of Glenn's proposal
Thank you seems inadequate and too simple for all of the kindness shown to us. When Roxanne told Glenn that the day she sent out the email, the maximum hours of leave were donated immediately. When those from other agencies arrived at the party with leave slips of donated time from people at their various State agencies she told them thank you, but they would not be able to use them. We are so grateful for your generosity and appreciate this beyond words.




Brandon Woolf, State Controller
Siroos, IT at Tax
Steve Wilson, Controller's Office
Glenn received a sledgehammer award from his co-workers. The certificate says, “For his service, example, and dominating spirit at the Idaho State Tax Commission on this day, February 6, 2013. “There are two types of people in this world, there’s hammers and there’s nails,”—Jeff Choate, Special Teams and linebackers coach for the Boise State Broncos.  This hammer represents hard-nosed work ethic and domination. As a tradition, the Boise State Bronco with the biggest hit gets to proudly lead the rest of the team onto the field carrying a sledgehammer. We recognize Glenn Haar as a leader and an example for his years of hard work and dedication as a co-worker, a manager, and a friend.”  The sledgehammer was signed by his friends. This has meant so much to him. What a creative and thoughtful gift. It’s easy to see why he loved his job and his co-workers so much. You are an amazing group of people.

The Sledgehammer Award

Thank you wonderful co-workers!
We are touched daily by thoughtful acts from the many connections Glenn has made through the years with so many at the Tax Commission and others throughout the state. The thoughtful cards from vendors he has worked with, emails from many he may not have ever met face to face, cards and visits from so many that were not just co-workers but are friends. Our hearts are so full of gratitude. Our tears are tears of joy. It is truly a blessing and a gift to be able to meet and say “See ya later!” one more time. It has given us a source of strength and peacefulness we had not known. Thank you.

Thanks for the ride Cisco!

Linda