Time's up for the Fossil

One of the great ones in my life passed away monday morning.

The "Fossil" was born in Ireland and brought with him the strong work ethic of an immigrant determined to make a better life in America. He brought old-school family values, where parents take responsibility for their children. He brought a sense of family to the community as well. He also brought the legendary wit of an Irishman. I could tell him a one-line joke one day, and three weeks later I would catch him telling a hilarious story 5 minutes long ending in my punch line. Despite several tragedies in his life, he continually lifted smiles and laughter out of anyone he spoke to. He especially loved to flirt with the older ladies, the ones that might not have had anyone flirt with them in 40 or 50 years. They just ate it all up. He could make anyone's day.

Battling cancer and its "treatments" for several years, we could all see it happening. We could see him gradually leaving us. He could, too. Finally it was time, and he bowed out a champion. Thank you for one more lesson in what's really important in life.

So long my friend, so long.