In Memory of Rob Hiaasen

Hiaasen, 59, celebrated his 33rd wedding anniversary last week with Maria Hiaasen, a former journalist who teaches English at Dulaney High School. Thursday was her 58th birthday.

I’m so, so sad. Upset. Heartbroken. Sick to my stomach.

Journalists perform a public service on a daily basis. They tell us what’s going on in our communities. They live in our communities. They are our neighbors and friends. They love their communities.

My heart will always be with newsrooms. I’ve got a whole family of journalists — a family that includes my own talented brother. I’m thinking of you all so much.

I can’t stop reading the horrific stories, and I’ll read every devastating obituary. Here’s one of Rob Hiaasen. He was born in South Florida and worked at the Palm Beach Post in the 90s. You might have heard of his brother. Take a few minutes to read about his life and career. This one is from Baltimore; the Miami Herald has a touching obituary too.

And to my brothers and sisters in journalism — thank you. I’m so proud of the hard work you do day in and day out. I’ll keep wishing and praying for your safety always