Thursday, March 9, 2017
On a snowy day in March of 1963 , John and I boarded a plane bound for Delaware where we were transferred to an Air Force plane that landed at Lackland Air Force Base . Thus began a life-long friendship that ended yesterday. I missed him when he went to Saudi Arabia and I will continue to miss him . Our time together in the Air Guard was always exciting , especially our two weeks of active duty each Summer .
As John moved up in the banking world and became the Manager of the First Trust in Camillus I would frequently stop in with my daughter and John always made sure she left with something sweet . John also was very helpful to my Family and I in business affairs as well . As what happens too often today ,we moved , John went to the Middle East and I went to the Far West , Texas . Our friendship only suffered by not being together , but the friendship never faded and we kept in touch via phone and letters.
I was so happy that we got together last Fall and spent an afternoon together with another former Guardsman . I thoroughly enjoyed our long telephone call last month and even more so today . knowing now that would be our last conversation.
New York City was always a very special place for us . We did not get to visit there often enough , but when we were there we so enjoyed it . I was glad John got to make it his home . As I used to tell him , he was MR. NYC to me .
As I write this , I realize that I could write so much more , but instead I will go into another room and look at the large photo of John shaking hands with Nancy Reagan . It is a picture that was taken many years ago , but we have always had it in a place of honor and even more so today .
I can never forget John since we share a special date : his birthday and my wedding date . Neither one of us ever missed a card no matter where we lived .
John , knowing you are in a pain-free place is helpful , but we shall all miss you . Sleep warm , John .
Your friend , NEIL
