Hello Michael -
When I logged on this morning, I was excited that my beloved Patriots were once again world champions. I looked forward to tweaking you about the SuperBowl, you know, the usual "where did you watch it, how did you like the first TD?" sort of stuff. (Of course, everyone knows you don't do sports!) By now, you're used to my ribbing you about sports stuff, yet you always reply with an innocent courtesy, typical of your honest and open demeanor. I was looking forward to that conversation this morning.
Then I got a PM from our friend John, telling me that you are gone. Gone from SI, gone from your family, gone from this earth forever. The Lord has taken you and your gifts from our community. I cannot express the sadness I feel right now. You are an institution of courtesy, intellect, culture, generosity and friendship here on SI. You set an example for all.
You were well-schooled at St. John’s on the great books of the western tradition, able to easily converse on Plato, Euclid, Jane Austen, or Tocqueville. I'll never forget our chats about movies, politics, philosophy, books, food, comedians, wars, morality, religion, education, chess, history, travel, TV, science and many other topics (but not sports!). You taught me a lot and I thank you. I'll miss you. God bless your wife and son, your pride and joy. And may God have mercy on your soul.
Your friend,
Bill
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