It was summertime, the mid seventies at Aunt Ola and Uncle Lee's camp. Bob rolled into Tilden Lake on his BMW (leather jacket and helmet in hand) to woo the love of his life and my cousin, Shari. He was the coolest dude. His kindness, easygoing nature, and sense of humor immediately won the family over.
Bob could fix anything, tinkered with everything, and was eager to pass the knowledge on. He handed down his Popular Science Magazines to me and a power transformer that he had built, it was a high school project. I used it for my CB radio. Inspiration was the other gift Bob left me with that day.
In the early eighties, he brought me to the Toronto Stock Exchange to show me the computers used to run the place (he worked there as a computer technician). They were huge, standing from floor to ceiling with big data reels spinning round. The system spanned over two floors. I was in awe. I wanted to become a computer technician, just like Bob.
We visited Peter (his boss and friend), who was "think about it: building a round house with straight materials and straight tools." It was tricky, now that I've thought about it.
Bob introduced me to Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, and good sound from the most amazing stereo system - some of which eventually ended up in my room.
This is the part of the story that becomes difficult. When and how to finish. There aren't enough words, nor is there enough space to fully express my memories and appreciation from those days. But one thing is important to note: This is only half of the story. Because for me, from that summer day on in the early 70s, It was always "Bob and Shari."
So, I'll finish with: It's an honour and a pivilliege to hold these memories.