During our American Graffiti High School years we both had classic cars. I had a bright red 48 Ford convertible and later a 50 Ford. John had a 40 Ford and later a classic blue 49-50 Oldsmobile with black and white tuck & roll upholstery. In fact, we were admiring my car one day in front of my home in Arcadia when two young ladies walked by admiring us! John married one of them, Stephanie, and I was his best man at a beautiful Christmas wedding in December 1963. They were together for almost 53 years. I just can't believe how fast a lifetime passes.

After college we both became teachers. I moved to Escondido in 1966 and started my career at Palomar College. John started his career at a middle school in Pasadena. For more than 40 years I made my traditional New Year's Eve visit to John and Stephanie's lovely home in Sierra Madre. We always had delicious food, marvelous discussions and beautiful walks into the nearby foothills.

It is difficult to say goodbye to a lifelong friend like John. He was truly one of the nicest persons I ever met in my life. New Year's will never be the same without this kind and gentle man. I will miss him very much and I will never forget him.