Sweet Caroline,

As you know, I write better than I talk. And right now, words fail me.

I really hate the thought of losing you, but I’m glad you won’t have to keep struggling anymore.

You were a part of so many of my “Firsts” during all the memorable times in our early life. You were my first serious relationship; you never forget your first. You made my first and only “girlfriend made” Birthday cake I (wanna say chocolate). You were my Senior Prom date, my Graduation date, we stayed up until about daylight and went to the Senior Breakfast. We were there for each other when JFK died. Pretty sure you broke speed records going from Hayden Lake to your house so we could watch the Beatles for the first time. First time I ever missed a gig, you were there. Lost as hell in the hills above Millwood. You were the Subject of one of my few attempts to write a song. (Country!) Someone outside the family to talk/vent to when my dad passed away. Thank you for that. I always thought it was cool that we were friends in our twenties, our forties. And seventies. To this day, every time I drive past Park Road, or across the river on Upriver Drive, I smile to myself.

Thank you for all the wonderful memories.

You’re someone who has used your life to touch so many others.

I’ll always feel incredibly lucky that mine was one of them.

Love ‘n Hugs my dear friend, Dave