Hardman/Watson Memorial to be built at Wills Point Baseball Fields
By Jami Johnson
On Nov, 19, 2014, my boys joined their dad and stepmother to travel to Disney World.
Within hours, they experienced tragedy. My 16-year-old, Andrew Hardman, was driving and the only person wearing his seat belt. Everyone else was thrown from the vehicle as it spun and rolled.
Michael and Trudi Hardman were both killed, along with my 7-year-old, Adam Hardman; Trudi’s 15-year-old son, Dakota Watson; and their 4-year-old daughter, Kaci Hardman. Trudi’s 12-year-old, Hunter Watson, suffered minor injuries. My 12-year-old, Aaron Hardman, had severe injuries.
The physical injuries continue to heal, but the horrors of that night will haunt the three surviving children forever.
To honor the five lives lost, the Hardman/Watson Memorial Playground will be built at the Wills Point Baseball Fields.
Michael coached many baseball teams, and he was well known in the baseball community and greatly missed.
In the most recent seasons, he had formed the Texas Shockers teams. Dakota was #13 on the “big” Shockers, and Adam was #7 on the “little” Shockers. Hunter, #24, and Aaron, #20, also played on the Texas Shockers with Michael as their coach. Because of their love of the sport, a memorial to honor them at the baseball fields is appropriate. And, we wanted the community to benefit with a playground to serve our families for years to come.
To read the full article, subscribe to the Van Zandt News or pick up a copy from one of our vendors.
Rate this article: