Justin was both the bright spark and the slow burning ember of humor and intelligence to me. He left behind so much, thankfully. Even more a part of everything now. 

Julien - you dad was a huge influence on me. I am truly sorry for your loss - heck for the world's loss.

He will live on in the song lyrics that I use to start every blog post, newsletter post, etc., something that i borrowed (ok stole) from Justin.

On the morning of December 9,  1980,  Justin came over to the Lincoln Journal copy desk and stood at my computer terminal for the longest time without saying a word.  He looked confused and upset.    Finally,  he said to me:  Did you read about what happened last night? Someone shot and killed John Lenon."  I looked at him astonished.  "You can't be serious."  "It's true, "   he said.  "Someone shot him outside his apartment last night in New York and he died enroute to a hospital."   He looked at me as if the whole world had vanished  and we both stood there for the longest time not saying anything, trying to fight back tears.  "Why him?"  Justin asked.  "He never did anything to anybody but sing about love and peace. "  "God It doesn't make sense."  That morning I bonded with Justin Mitchell like a brother.  I  knew his heart was big and he cared about what the things I care about.  I  will remember him until my heart stops beating.  Peace my friend.  I could not be at your celebration but am making a shrine and burning sage in your honor.

I was briefly acquainted with Justin, due in part to our mutual appreciation of musician Warren Zevon.  I enjoyed Justin's wry humor, eloquence, and breadth of musical knowledge. Sending heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.