Festus R-VI Hall of Fame Inductee - Dr. Harry J. Bahr
2007 Festus R-VI Hall of Fame Recipient
Dr. Harry J. Bahr
Harry Bahr is a remarkable individual. His leadership and character exemplify why he deserves to be in the Festus Hall of Fame. He believes in living his life by example, and he has been a role model for many people in his family as well as in the community.
Harry has had many achievements during his lifetime. He attended Festus High School from 1958-1962. He continued his education by receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in deaf education from Washington University in 1967. He went on to receive his Master of Science degree from the University of Kansas in 1968. He finished his education by attaining his doctorate in educational administration from Saint Louis University in 1982.
Harry served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, where he received a Purple Heart and two Bronze Stars with “V” for valor. Upon returning from Vietnam, Harry went to work for the Saint Louis County Special School District where he served as a teacher and director of special education from 1970-1999. He presently serves as a Senior Lecturer at Fontbonne University.
Because Harry leads his life by example, he is also very active in the community. For the last twenty-five years he has served on the Board of Directors of two non-profit agencies providing employment services for individuals with disabilities. He has participated in building projects for Habitat for Humanity. He has chaired his parish’s efforts to help its “twin” parish in Haiti, including organizing and accompanying a medical mission to Haiti for the last three years. He has opened his home to foster children and to foreign exchange students. He has been involved in the Boy Scouts and as coach for children’s sporting activities. He has volunteered at church groups, the Mothers of Twins club, inner-city schools, and many other community and professional organizations.
Harry Bahr is the ideal candidate for the Festus Hall of Fame. He serves his community and his family. Throughout his life, he has achieved many great things, and the people around him have benefited from his spirit of generosity.