Among the many reasons we mourn the loss of Harry Kalas today, one should not be overlooked.

While much of the region remembers the voice of the Phillies, in Delaware County we also mourn a local treasure. In truth, Harry belonged to the entire Delaware Valley, but he lived here.

Kalas was a longtime Delaware County resident and was never shy about his feelings for his home turf.

But he didn’t just talk about it. Harry put his words – uttered in that unmistakable rich baritone – to work.

For years Kalas emceed the annual Veterans Day Parade in Media. So great were his ties to Media – which he proudly proclaimed as his home town – that they held a parade in his honor.

Every Christmas, Kalas would pay a visit to Fair Acres, the county’s home for the aged, and regale the residents with Christmas Carols. Sure to be included was Kalas’ signature tune, “High Hopes.”

There will be something missing next year when they assemble in Media on Veterans Day to honor those who served this country so well.

Harry will not be there.

As his famous sidekick Whitey Ashburn would no doubt agree: Hard to believe, Harry.