There’s a funeral service Tuesday in Athens, Ga., for Ted Hafer, known for his vegetarian restaurant the Grit and for his love of his community. Hafer, 42, apparently committed suicide over the weekend. His death has shocked and saddened the Athens community, where he’s been active in food and music and more since 1985.
So sad.
Here’s a tidbit from an Atlanta Journal Constitution story:
Friends said Mr. Hafer had for months been coping with a variety of health issues, including the effects of being hit by a truck in September. He suffered a concussion, “and really screwed up his back,” Maj. Greene said.
The Hafer whom people recall and loved “was energetic, egoless, artistic, vivacious and very strong physically,” said Five and Ten chef and owner Hugh Acheson, a resident of the same Boulevard neighborhood.
“He was the quintessential community-minded Athens person,” said Mr. Acheson.
Mr. Hafer gave his time, energy and restaurant resources to myriad charities and causes.
Former Mayor Gwen O’Looney, who is involved in various nonprofits, said Mr. Hafer donated gift certificates to silent auctions and was “a very strong supporter of all parts of the community.”
David Barbe, owner of Chase Park Transduction Co., recorded an album for Porn Orchard, the band that Mr. Hafer came with to Athens in 1985.
After that group disbanded, Mr. Hafer was in various bands, making music, Mr. Barbe said, and was “somebody who got things done.”
Loved by locals and University of Georgia students, the Grit achieved even wider fame in 2001 after Hill Street Press, an Athens company, published “The Grit Cookbook.” Throughout it are endorsements from musicians and Athens residents.
Bertis Downs, manager of R.E.M., said “the band is very sad.” Records show R.E.M. lead singer Michael Stipe owns the building where the Grit is located. “His death has affected a lot of people in the community,” Mr. Downs said.