This came as quite the shock, Bill has been my friend since the 5th grade. We were Boy Scouts, motorcycle riders and school bad boys together. We stayed in touch and always met up when he came back to Maryland to visit. My real name is Joe Howell, not Blackie Katt

I had Bill as a supervisor right after spending several years in a very toxic work environment. He was unfailingly helpful and supportive to everyone who worked for him, making us feel valuable and appreciated! He accepted people's differences instead of using them to distinguish between the "ins" and the "outs."  After I moved on to other jobs and we saw each other at various events, Bill made a point of complimenting me on the job that I did for him and how highly he'd always thought of me. I'm sorry that I won't be able to attend the funeral to show the huge respect that I've always had for him.

Sometimes a person enters your life that you know is totally honest, and unique. Today I want to pay tribute to my friend. He always showed up for me, as well as others he cared about. Even when there were years in between. The last time was for my mother's funeral. He was there when I went through rough patches, he was there for my wedding. He was a photographer who made black and whites every shade of grey in between. His photos reflected life. A true artist. He was always for the underdog. He was brilliant. And like so many brilliant people many thought he was strange. Rest in peace Bill. You served the world well. You left your mark. I will miss your presence here on earth. You will always live on in the hearts of your friends left behind.