The death of staff writer Karl Pearson late Saturday or early Sunday morning is affecting the entire Ashtabula Star Beacon staff.

Pearson, 58, had worked for the company since 1974. He was formerly the paper's sports editor.

He finished his stories for the Star Beacon's football tab last Friday. He was quite proud of the section and commended sports editor Dom McCormack.

"He was so proud of that thing," McCormack said. "He came over and shook my hand."

As Pearson was leaving the office in Ashtabula, he said to McCormack, "I love you, buddy."

That was the last time McCormack saw his friend of more than 25 years.

"I have no idea what I'm going to do without him as a worker or a friend," McCormack said. "I'm in shock."

McCormack found Pearson at his house in Ashtabula.

"He hired me 26 years ago," he said.

Pearson, who graduated from Madison High School, loved to sing the national anthem at high school games.

"Karl treated everybody better than he did himself," McCormack said. "He loved singing the national anthem. That was his life."

Few, if any, would have a bad thing to say about Pearson. He was well-liked by the coaches and athletes.

"That was his professional beat," McCormack said.

There's been a Facebook page set up, "In Memory of Karl E. Pearson."

Services are incomplete. But they are expected to be held at Behm Funeral Home in Madison.