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Certainly to me, and pretty much anyone else who knows him, he is a most rare, once in a lifetime type fellow. With few exceptions, a life touched by his, however briefly, can’t help but be instantly enriched.  It’s hard to imagine anyone could be larger than life in such a way, but that is what makes him so unique, and such a great treasure.

Before I knew him, by all accounts he had led an outstanding life of service. It was a career that by itself was extraordinary enough, spent in public safety and the service of others. Yet despite his many years of community service, he is always quick to intimate that he wasted a great deal of his life before finding his way. That is where his story picks up for me.  

 I couldn’t see him because he was at a far table, in a crowded room one Sunday school morning. I remember my introduction to him was by way of hearing this funny voice asking questions. His was anything but the usual voice in the crowd, it was so much more entertaining. So much so, that immediate notice of the contents and phrasing of his intoxicatingly captivating comments and questions was inescapable. Usually in the form of a quick whited query, and as comical and they were direct, his queries and input were always simple and direct, to the point, apropos, were  generally spot on, and always left an indelible mark where their rubber met the road.

He is genuinely equipped with a filter that has holes in it an oversized school bus could pass through with ease. His lack of filter, combined with a comedic quick wit that could go toe to toe with the great headliners of our times, makes conversations with him always so very entertaining and enlightening. Anyone exposed is naturally left wanting to hear more.

In unique combination with his rapier wit, he also employs a self- deprecating style as one of his alluring hallmark traits. Despite his obvious talents and graces, he gives full credit to others as being so much more deserving than himself, and credits them for helping him find his way. He is AD defined, and employs that trait in always doing what he can to assist those who are most in need. If you need a door opened, your car pulled up, to be taken shopping, visited for moral support, you name it, that is where his heart and helping hands can be found.   

Unfortunately, my dear friend is dealing with some health issues of late. Given his uniqueness, it is hard to imagine him as being impaired. So, I remember him as I know him to be, one of the funniest, wittiest, kindest, and most giving spirited persons that God has given to this world. I am deeply honored to know him and continue to find inspiration in remembering his character, his wit, and his service and grace to others!

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Please share your true to life stories of those who have been an inspiration in your life. 

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