I just learned of Dr. Harwood's passing yesterday, and I must say I'm in a state of shock as well as mourning, because I had no idea he'd been ill. "Dr. Bob", as I called him, was my veterinarian for 17 years. I'll always remember his gentleness with each one of my cats, no matter what was wrong with them. I'll always remember him for saving the life of my "Katie" when she needed an operation to remove some unborn kittens that were causing her to be very ill. His knowledge of what was wrong with my girl "Tobi" (anemia) gave her four months of life that she wouldn't have had otherwise. I'll also always, always remember his friendly smile, not only there at the hospital but whenever I would see him at the grocery store. He was one of the kindest, most gentle people I've ever met, and I will miss him very much. Patty Ungles is a great veterinarian in her own right and I love her dearly as a friend, but Harwood Animal Hospital just won't be the same without Dr. Bob. Thank you so much, Dr. Harwood, for the friendship you gave me as well as the care and lovingkindness you gave my babies. You will be missed, my friend.
~ Jeri Wyatt
- March 6, 2013
Susan and family. All of Bob's brothers in Delta Chi will truly miss Bob and our hearts go out to you. God broke the mold when he made Bob. He was a leader in the fraternity as he was a leader his entire life. If I had to describe the perfect friend who was smart, loyal, kind, and caring it would be Bob. God Bless you and your family.
Tom Haney
~ Tom Haney
- December 26, 2012
Dr. Harwood was a very good vet. he was my pets vet for years while I lived in Chanute. He will be missed by many. So sorry for your loss.
~ Janice Haynes Jones
- November 20, 2012
Dear Susan,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss.He was such a wonderful, nurturing person. We will be praying for you and your family.
Your friend always.
~ Jim and Patricia Sainer
- November 8, 2012
I am sincerely sad to hear about your loss. I have always enjoyed seeing Bob in church and his always positive personality. Bob will be missed by all who knew him.
Erik Zimmerman
~ Erik Zimmerman
- November 3, 2012
Dear Susan and family,
I am so sorry to hear of Bob's passing away. I remember when we were in band at good ole Humboldt High School and the fun that we had on band trips. He was always so kind and caring. He cared for our cat and dog. He was so great with them and very patient. He will be missed by so many people. My heart and sympathy goes out to you. God bless you.
~ Joyce Howell Kilpatrick
- October 31, 2012
Gary and Nancy Criser were Dr. Harwoods neighbors for 18 years on Larson. We always enjoyed visiting his animal clinic with our animals. Our Daughter Lynette use to babysit Mark and Ellen when they were little ones. She still remembers that also. He will be missed greatly as a friend.
His family will be in our prayers. My God Bless you all
~ Gary and Nancy Criser
- October 30, 2012
I lived in Chanute for just two short years but during that time, Dr. Harwood became my vet to my then cat and dog and I also got to know him through our association with Kiwanis. What a kind, loving, gentle man he was. I am so sorry for your loss.
~ Kim Tomlinson
- October 30, 2012
Susan, Mark & Ellen,
I have two searing memories of Bob that I feel that I need to share with you. They both exemplified the care and concern he felt for animals, as well as people. The first one was when the kids were young and the Coxes we staying @ our house also. Matt V and Mandy Cox were probably in the 4th & 5th grades respectively and the girls and Matt Cox were 4 years younger than them, respectively. It was a Saturday, and I had gone to some all-day meeting in Ft. Scott and Bill had left, temporarily, to run to the post office. Of course, with the Vietti's flare for bad luck, disaster would pick that moment to strike. The neighbor's basenji dogs chose that moment to get out. They came over to our house & the kids & dogs were all outside. They attacked Bogey (our mini doxie @ the time.) She fought viscously to protect the kids, but eventually was losing the fight. Each big dog had hold of an end of her & they were fighting against each other for her. The kids, somehow, got the attacking dogs distracted and managed to get Bogey inside before the dogs went after the kids also, because they were holding Bogey. Our dog was torn to bits & bleeding profusely. Matt C called Bob and said "Ya gotta' come quick, Bogey's hurt bad." That was all it took and Bob rushed over to get her. No questions asked. He walking into a house with 4 hysterical kids and a dog bleeding from every spot on her body. He took her and told Bill and I later, that he had no idea if he could get that done or not, she was torn up so badly. But he did get 'er done and she healed fabulously. If I remember, it took over 250 stitches to accomplish the task @ hand. But it was done and Bogey lived until the ripe old age of 13. What a guy!! Talented, compassionate & caring.
The other occurrence was about 9 years later. By then we had acquired another Doxie, Ralph, and Bogey had lived her life to the fullest and the time had come to put her down. I asked Bob if there was any chance he could come to our house to do the procedure. He said that definitely that possible. The designated day arrived and Bob was coming after work. Upon arrival Ralph and I were waiting with Bogey to meet her fate and Bill was gone. We all sat on the couch for a bit and Bob just stroked Bogey's head and talked to her in that low comfortable voice he used with the dogs. It was like he had just dropped in to visit the 3 of us. He soon picked up Bogey's front paw and tied the tourniquet on her and administered the serum, just as though he was putting her down for surgery, talking to her all the time. Very soon she was gone. I just sat on the couch with Ralph and Bogey for the last time and cried. I was just immobile. I thanked Bob. It was SO sad, but he knew we needed our time to grieve with Bogey and gently got up and let himself out. He understood we had lost a valuable family member and acknowledged that gracefully. It brings tears to my eyes reliving this again.
But this was another, in a multitude of examples, of how caring and compassionate he was. He was OUR vet and we we will ALL miss him!!
~ Suzi Vietti
- October 30, 2012
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Harwood family. Although we only met Bob briefly last summer in Montana - his kindness showed through. We feel blessed to have known him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Cherish the memories.
~ Rick, Gail, Morgan & Jace Kuntz
- October 29, 2012
To the Harwood Family, My first meeting with Dr. Harwood was when I brought in a little white dog that I had found trotting along the side of the old 169 Hwy between Humboldt and Chanute. I wanted to get him to a vet and to find out his breed. When I asked for suggestions, everyone recommended "Bob." It turned out that I had found a 10 month old Maltese. Dr. Harwood gently added, "He's not a show dog." I often thank God for allowing me to care for this little guy. If not for him and Him, I would have never met Dr. Harwood. He had such a unique way of expressing himself and would always take time, like you were the only one who mattered. Every time I left after a vet visit, I would ask if he would be my doctor as I'm sure many others did, too. What a great guy! He used the many God-given gifts that were bestowed upon him to touch the hearts of those who had the blessing of knowing him.
~ Milada Klimes and Phoo
- October 29, 2012
Our deepest sympathy to you, Susan, Mark and Ellen. The memories of all that he did will give you comfort. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
~ Don and Mary Ann Kjellerson and family
- October 29, 2012
Fun memories of Dr. Bob was asking him to be a judge in an Ugly Dog Contest 30 years ago. He had the funniest way of judging them without "judging" them! Even tho folks entered them in hopes to win, he just couldn't tell them they were ugly! He would say "Well, this one is certainly interesting looking". Ha! Then asked him to be a judge at my work place's Halloween Pumpkin Decorating Contest. He was equally as charming! We loved how he talked to our dogs during visits to his office, as if they were going to answer his questions. "Now Rosie, what seems to be the problem today?" He just had a way of making your life a little sweeter just by knowing him. We will miss him and we send his family our love and support.
~ Mike, Karry and Megan Reeves
- October 29, 2012
We will miss Bob. He was there for us with all of our pets and my parents pets. I remember calling the on call number one night several months ago about 10:00 pm. Our cat had suffered a stroke. I knew Bob was ill and I was surprised when he answered the phone. He knew when I told him the symptoms that there was'nt much he could do but he made me feel better by telling me it was a wait and see but he still offered to meet me at the hospital. We did'nt go but he made me feel that I had done the best I could do under the circumstances. He was such a great guy and we will miss Dr. Bob. Our thoughts go out to you Susan and your family.
~ Judy and Jerry Walters
- October 28, 2012
Dear Susan and family,
I was sorry to hear of Bob's passing this last week. I have such fond memories of working with him at the AMC. He demonstrated such a kindness and compassion for all of his patients. What a wonderful lesson for a young person who was interested in the field! One of the things that I remember is his love for pecan pie and egg nog! I could never understand that one but he did enjoy that egg nog. Take comfort in knowing that he loved, lived and enjoyed a very full life and he will be missed by all whose lives he touched.
Cheri
~ Cheri Beech Berg
- October 28, 2012
Bob always had time to talk about Kansas State sports no matter how busy he was. He was a one of a kind man that we always looked forward to seeing no matter the circumstance. His kind heart and gentle, friendly manner will be missed by many. K-State will be missing one of it's most faithful fans. May God bless your family.
~ Crab & Peggy Lundine, Humboldt
- October 28, 2012
Susan, Mark and Ellen, Bob has been in our prayers for a long time now. We will miss his humor and caring. Just recently he came to our home to assist our elderly cat in passing. He came because he knew how stressful it would be for Mookie to be taken to the office. That was the kind of person he was. He cared for Mookie and all of his health problems for 15 years. Bob was so knowledgeable and used that knowledge for the benefit of all. He will be missed by all. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Larry and Linda Tiemann
~ Linda and Larry Tiemann
- October 28, 2012
Our hearts and prayers go out to Dr Harwood's family during this time. Though we moved from Chanute 16 years ago, we always remember the wonderful care our dog Spunky received from Dr. Harwood and his staff. At appointments he always took the time to answer all our questions and made us feel we were the only patients he had to see that day...though the waiting room told otherwise! When it came time to say goodbye to our furry family member, the compassion and care Dr Harwood gave our family..and Spunky.. meant so very much. How thankful we are to have known such a tenderhearted and caring vet!
~ Gary and Jeannine Royse
- October 27, 2012
We have known the Harwoods for a very long time. Dr. Harwood is a wonderful man. He loved his family with all of his heart. We were honored to have known him. Prayers go out to his loved ones . May God be with you through this time of need.
Love,
Garrett, Channing , and Holly Umbarger Miller
~ Holly Miller
- October 27, 2012
We are so sorry for your loss. He was a great man. He always took great care of our cats. He will be missed very much. Thinking of all of you.
~ Stan & Francie Simmons
- October 27, 2012
I am very saddened at his passing, and am sending my condolence's to his family. Bob worked with me in the early 1980's, when I was rehabilitating raptors, and has alway's treated our dogs and cats. He was very kind and loving toward our animals, wearing his heart on his sleeve, and to the "parents" of the patients, he was extremely compassionate. He saved the life of our Siberian at least twice, not having any worries that we called and woke his wife and him early one morning, due to an overdose of Dilantin. I called poison control and was told to get her to a vet. If an animal needed help, Bob was there. He will be sorely missed by 2 and4 legged, alike. Once again our condolence's, and thoughts for the family.
~ Patt and John Hutchison
- October 26, 2012
To the Harwood Family,
What a gift that Dr. Bob was to the world for humans and animals! Leading with his kind heart and gentle smile, he will always be remembered. May his memory always warm your heart, his love make you thankful and his fight make you proud. Rest in Heavenly Peace!
Janele (Huelat) Roche & Family
~ Janele Roche
- October 26, 2012
Susan and Family,
I am deeply sorry to hear of Bob's passing. My parents spoke so highly of him and the entire Harwood family. I know you all have wonderful memories that will give you great comfort.
~ Terri (Dayhoff) Sanchez
- October 26, 2012
We are so very, very sorry about the passing of Dr. Bob. Susan, you couldn't have married a more remarkable man and Mark and Ellen, how lucky you were to have had him for a father. As a lot of people have said Bob was the kindest, most gentle, caring person we have ever met. He also had the best personality ever and was always playing tricks on me. He took care of our horses, dogs, cats, whatever we had, he was always there for us. Lisa, our daughter, worked for Bob when she was in high school and in the summers between college years, he taught her so much and treated her so good. We will forever be thankful for his kindness and caring for Lisa. I could go on and on about how much we thought of Bob but I will close for now. He is in God's hands now where he will not have anymore pain and God will take care of all of you as well. Please let us know if there is anything we can do for you. Love to you Susan, Mark and Ellen.
Bill and Jean Armstrong
~ Bill and Jean Armstrong
- October 26, 2012
Dr. Harwood has been our family Vet since I can remember as a small child. I will never forget his kindness when he had to help us with the loss of a family pet. He was a great man and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. We loved to go by in the morning and see Dr. Harwood and Snowball coming to work. Our thoughts are with you.
Tom, Becci & Olivia Wheatley
~ Becci Wheatley
- October 26, 2012
Dear Susan,
Our hearts go out to you and your family at hearing of Bob's passing. With you by his side, he fought his illness with so much courage and strength. Keep all of the wonderful times that you shared with Bob in your heart and may they bring you comfort and peace in the days ahead.
Alpha Chi Love,
Marcia and Jack
~ Marcia Bowerman
- October 26, 2012
My deepest sympathy to you all; this community lost a great gentle man, and he will be missed greatly.
I'm so very sorry,
Stacy Henson
~ Stacy Henson
- October 26, 2012
Our heartfelt sympathy to you all. Prayers to give you strength during your loss.
What a wonderful Vet. When we first moved to Chanute about 3 yrs ago, we needed a vet and many said go to Dr. Harwood he is the best there is. And friendly too. They were so right and we are still at the same place today. What a wonderful caring man he is with animals and the cares of the owners as well. He will be sadly missed. God Bless each of you
~ Herb and Sherry Runer
- October 26, 2012
Dear Susan,
I want you to know how truly sorry I am for you and your children at Bob's passing. I know that you had a loving marriage and it was wonderful that the two of you made such a terrific couple. I know you treasure every moment. Love to you always, Valerie and Jim
~ Valerie Craig
- October 26, 2012
I will remember Dr. Bob for the nurturing and loving care he provided our dear childhood pet, Rocky. In my opinion, that is a tremendous legacy to leave behind. I know he will be greatly missed by many in the Chanute community and beyond. My thoughts are with the Harwood family during this difficult time.
~ Joy (Robbins) Kozar
- October 26, 2012
Dear Susan, Mark, and Ellen,
Our hearts and prayers go out to you all. Bob was a true friend to all and a beautiful example of Love. His family was his passion and you were ever faithful to his needs. Please know we Love You Much and are with you in Spirit. We were so Blessed for your family to be a part of ours.
Gil, Linda, Molly, and Jennifer Rumsey
~ Linda Rumsey
- October 26, 2012
It was a pleasure to take care of Bob. My deepest sympathies to Susan, Mark and Ellen
God Bless
~ Heather Webber
- October 26, 2012
OUR CONDOLENCES TO YOUR FAMILY - BOB WAS OUR VET FOR MAN YEARS AND WE WILL MISS HIM.
JIM AND ANDE STOVER
~ JIM STOVER
- October 26, 2012
Susan, Mark, and Family:
I was always impressed with Bob's constantly-positive demeanor, friendliness, patience, and humor. For a man to be such a great caring friend to humans and to animals is an eternal tribute to his honor. I had great admiration for him. I extend my sincerest sympathy and may God bless all of you, giving you strength, comfort, and peace as you cope with Bob's passing. For us believers in Christ, we can look forward to being reunited with Bob in heaven.
~ Bruce Keeton
- October 26, 2012
I always remember the kindness Bob extended to us when we took our
cocker "Buffy" to him for help. She was not his patient, but he was there
when we needed him in our time of sorrow.
Thanks Dr.!!
~ Glenda Getchell
- October 25, 2012
I first met Bob at the Animal Clinic, before he built his own practice. Then I got to know him much better when he volunteered as a 4-H leader and parent. He gave such interesting programs, sharing his experiences in Alaska and other destinations. His contributions to his family and the community are numerous and he will be greatly missed by many. May God give him rest and peace.
Our heartfelt sympathy go out to you, Susan, as well as Mark and Ellen and the rest of the family. We so wish we could attend the services but we will be out of town and unable to attend. Would really enjoy seeing your family since it has been a long time since we have seen Ellen and Mark.
~ Jim and Lois Carlson
- October 25, 2012
A genuinely kind and caring man who was our doggies vet for many years. He will certainly be missed by many.
~ Bobby Huffman
- October 25, 2012
Dear Susan and family,
Bob was a wonderful person and a very caring vet....from the moment we met him we knew he was a friend and one who really cared about animals. We had a horse he cared for and then afterwards, he would call to check on her.
May God wrap his arms around the whole family during this time of healing. God Bless you all.
~ Jeanette Spilman
- October 25, 2012
Mark - I've been thinking a lot about your dad lately. I have nothing but positive and warm memories from the time spent at your house and with your dad. I remember him taking us to Top Gun at the theater (a mind blowing experience at the time), a rare ride in the Daytona, and just how nice he always was. He always made me feel welcome at your house. I don't remember ever hearing an unkind word from your your dad. He was a class act in the purest sense, and I am sure a positive influence to all that he met. Very sad to hear this news.
~ Mark Keeton
- October 25, 2012
Dear Mark:
Thinking of your family at this time. Just by reading your Dad's obituary we can tell that he was an amazing man that meant so much to so many. He had to be a great guy with a son like you. Prayers for you & your family at this difficult time.
Hang in there friend,
Dr. Kevin & Hilary Austin
~ Dr. Kevin Austin
- October 25, 2012
God bless you with all your wonderful memories to comfort you now. He was needed in heaven to take care of all the animals there. Know he will always watch over you. Love, Becky and Steve
~ Becky Barr & Steve Stichman
- October 25, 2012
Bob was a very caring and humble person. Every time we saw him he had a way of making us feel like we were best friends. He had to be a wonderful person for Susan to have found and married. He was a great husband to Susan and father to his children and we know they will miss him. May happy memories of time spent with Bob help his family and friends through these difficult days without him. Our prayers are with all the family. We hope you will call on us to help in any way we can!
~ Don and Becky Reynolds
- October 25, 2012
Bob was a wonderful person. His skills as a veternarian were greatly appreciated by my family. Our heartfelt sympathy and prayers go out to Susand and his children.
Jane & Skip Ingram
~ Jane Ingram
- October 25, 2012
Dearest Susan and family,
My sincerest and loving condolences to you, Susan, and your family. Bob was one of the kindest and gentlest men that I ever knew. Just having him walk up with that sweet smile created calm. Actually, yesterday I was in Manitou Springs playing with some bunnies at a hotel and mentioning how I know a vet in Chanute who kept bunnies at his home. Also, this morning I was thinking of the notes I received for Phil and remembering the very thoughtful and loving note from Bob. We all are better for knowing the sweetness and love of Bob. Please take care of yourselves and come see me in Colorado if you want.
Love and prayers to you,
Becce Brazil
~ Becce Brazil
- October 25, 2012
Susan, Mark and Ellen,
I have so many memories over the 40 years that I've known Bob
that it would be very hard to pick a favorite one. I only know his compassion for people and animals was absolute. He will be dearly miss by us all.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
John and Patty Busse
~ Patty Busse
- October 25, 2012
Dear Susan & Family,
The world will be a poorer place without Bob among us. He had the most wonderful disposition and attitude about everything. And I loved placing my animals in his care. His gentle, caring manner always calmed the animals and their owners. A great loss to the community and to the many of us who called him friend. My prayers are with you all. Please let me know if I can do anything for you... hugs!
~ Sherri Watson
- October 25, 2012
My most vivid memory of Bob was when we had kittens on Good Friday.
By Sunday, one of them was in trouble and my daughter, Melinda, convinced me that we needed to take it to Bob. He was very gentle with Melinda and told here that the kitten wasn't going to live and she needed to leave it with him. It was Easter Sunday, but it didn't seem to bother Bob that we had come. He was a good man and will be missed.
~ Annette Condon
- October 25, 2012