Harry Gieg

HARRY ALLAN GIEG, 77, passed away in Columbus, OH on December 29, 2017. Born in North Philadelphia to Marie and Allan Gieg, he was a wonderful, devoted father and a lifelong, versatile singer and writer. His poems and articles are published in many journals and anthologies—when asked about the inspiration for his poetry, he often referred to the artistic joy of his life, saying, “Mostly, I’m just singing.” He also authored a textbook on technical writing based on his 26 years at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and received a Fellowship for poetry from the Commission for the Arts of West Virginia, where he had lived since 1979. He is survived by his son Nicholas Fox-Gieg, daughter-in-law Meagan Williams, and daughter Rebecca Fox-Gieg; partner Edwina Pendarvis; sister Joan Smith and brother-in-law Steve Smith; niece Claudia Frost and family; nephew Noah Smith; and dear friend—and mother to Nicholas and Rebecca—Ronni Fox Glaser. A memorial and celebration of his life will be held on his birthday in 2018. Harry’s family would like to offer profound thanks to the staff at Columbus Alzheimer Care Center for their incredible kindness and care. Through his singing, poetry, and lifelong dedication to social and economic equality, he showed his love of life and humanity; he leaves a legacy that will inspire new audiences and continue to inspire those who knew him. Harry is deeply loved, and he will be be greatly missed. Donations can be made to Project HOME—a Philadelphia-based nonprofit that works to break the cycle of homelessness and poverty—at projecthome.org.