This is a letter from a former student:

Mr. Haas,

When I opened up Facebook this morning and read Flyer had passed away I rose from my desk and closed the door so band students wouldn’t see me crying as they began entering for band camp (we’re at home). I will still lay claim that I was the first student of yours to meet Flyer. I don’t know why that day is still so vivid but to a 12 year old boy a puppy is still a big thing. Mom and I got to your place very early and you came rushing in from KMS [Kettering Middle School]. As we followed you inside you said you had a surprise. You went upstairs and returned with this cute little black and white puppy with big blue eyes. I was in love the minute I met her. I was pretty proud too that I got to take her outside to potty. Big responsibilities. I can also remember the caravan of cars and vans when you took about 30 students and families on the Wright Brothers tour of Dayton. When we got to the cemetery Flyer hopped out of your car and ran right to Wilbur Wright’s grave and sat down. I am still amazed at the story and at the fact I got to witness it firsthand. I got to also witness you as your sons arrived. What a great role model you’ve been as a teacher, a dad and as Flyer’s dad. And Logan’s too (I can still remember that cat stomping across the piano during my sax lessons). Thank you for always being someone I’ve looked up to and respected. You taught me so much more than just music. You demonstrated how to be a great person and how to love your students. And something else you taught me – a good director is never late. Time for me to hit the practice field. Thank you for being in my life and for sharing Flyer with me. I am sure Wilbur Wright is watching over her until you get there.

Love, Kyle