Monday, May 27, 2013
So sorry to hear the sad news Rhonda, Sean & Al. I feel terrible that you are having to go through this. Please know that you are in my thoughts & prayers.
Though I only got to know Gary in the last few years, I feel very fortunate to have met him, befriend him and eventually find myself calling him "my buddy Gary".
In my life, Gary happened along at the right time. He helped me get through some rough personal times, both with his counsel and his patronage of my work, for which I'm very thankful. My chats with Gary helped me stay positive, and I'll always keep his advice close to heart.
In his retirement, I was impressed by Gary's desire to learn new things and ability learn them quickly! I often had to remind myself (and occasionally him...ha!) that he hadn't noodled with guitars his whole life. If he had, I'm pretty sure he'd have been a great musician and audio technician.
On a more personal note, I was always struck by Gary's genuine interest and concern for the people he met. He seemed to draw the best out of strangers and, with a few words, put them perfectly at ease. I find myself attempting to emulate that particular trait of his now.
Most of all, I was struck by his love for his family. The way he still used pet names for his wife, who was obviously also his best friend, how he'd encourage her hobbies, and how he'd always brag about his sons and their different strengths & abilities. Please know that in this life you have been loved by a great man! Perhaps that bit of knowledge can comfort you when the waves of sorrow threaten to swamp you during this stormy time.
Jamie Wiens
