My amazing young friend

I first met David not long after he was out of college.  During the early years we developed a friendship that had a mentoring component.  David would often seek out my opinion on different issues and use me a sounding board for some of his ideas.  As he matured in both his personal and professional life, he displayed leadership skills and business acumen that soon surpassed mine and our discussions soon became those of peers and I often found myself seeking his opinion.  David had an amazing ability to get along with just about anyone while maintaining an extraordinary level of personal integrity.  On hunting and fishing trips with a group of curmudgeons old enough to be his parent, he always earned their respect and an invititation to return.  Those same curmudgeons were always wanting to know how David was doing and sending their warmest regards.

David and I had lunch together not long after his first diagnosis when he knew that his time was likely to be limited.  He was able to clearly recognize the risks he faced and expressed a determination to make the rest of his time worthwhile and focused on the important things in life.  To David those important things were Angie, Kelsey and Malia.  While I know that he hoped for a cure and for the possiblity of a long life, he was determined to be as good a husband and father as his time on earth would allow.  In that first meeting he reviewed a few of thethings he wished to accomplish with his family while he still could.  In subsequent meetings over time as his illness ebbed and flowed, those initial goals changed because he was actually able to accomplish them.  I know that one of the things he had hoped for was to see Kelsey and Malia mature into the wonderful young women they have become.   While I believe David would have been a great father and husband had he not become ill, there is little doubt that the outstanding husband and father he became was due partly to his recognition that he may not have as much time as he wanted. 

David, my friend, I shall miss you and always have you in my thoughts.  Your strength and determination, your personal integrity and your friendhip shall inspire me forever.

Gordy