The Dixon community was shocked and saddened by the death of Harry Ulferts while on vacation in Germany. Harry was retired from a career as a dedicated, outstanding law enforcement officer. He was admired, respected, and loved by family, co-workers and countless friends.
In a special Sauk Valley Media article, Police Chief Danny Langloss did an excellent job telling Harry’s special attributes as a mentor, coach and leader.
One could easily see the admiration and love that police officers had for Harry.
Death has a terrible sting, but death will not end cherished memories. I have many cherished and fun memories with Harry Ulferts.
I first met Harry when I was the manager of the Parkway Drive-in. Harry’s best friend, Harry LaBar, worked for me, so Harry Ulferts would be there quite often. I often think about the fun times we had just joking around. I can still see that ear-to-ear grin, whether the joke/teasing was on him or someone else.
He was a pleasure to have around. Even as a teenager, his friendliness, positive attitude, and love for others was already in place. Later, LaBar moved from Dixon, but the two Harrys remained lifetime friends; they actually were like brothers.
After Harry became a policeman, he coached in my girls softball program at Ballou Park. His partner was fellow police officer Bill Walls. One player was a lovely young lady named Peggy Gabany. It appeared that Harry took notice of her, as they fell in love and later married.
I always teased him that he coached only to look for and find a wife.
His response was always the same – that big Harry Ulferts grin.
Harry was so unique; he holds a record as being the only person to bring a bugle to the games. When their team would have runners on the bases, he’d get out the bugle and play “Charge.” Needless to say, the fans loved it. Harry always expressed to me that Bill Walls really helped him to develop as a police officer and coach.
My last time with Harry was last year when his daughter, Elise, was married. He was totally ecstatic that night and extremely proud. It was a large wedding, but Harry personally thanked everyone for attending. Needless to say, that is the kind of person he was, and his kids were everything to him.
The dictionary states that champion means “a winner.” Harry Ulferts was always a champion husband, father, police officer and public servant. He lived the “American dream.”
Harry Ulferts was the best of the best. We are a better community because he lived among us. We love you, Harry.
Note to readers – Ted Trulock coached many years at Dixon High School until his retirement.