I have so many cherished memories from the five years Ted and I worked together at Clark College. Today, I’m especially thinking about his love for fun and bringing people together. I remember the unforgettable Fourth of July parties he hosted at your beautiful apartment—he made sure there were seats for everyone, served incredible food, and created the perfect setting to watch the fireworks. Most of all, he ensured that everyone had a great time, radiating an infectious joy that made those gatherings truly special.
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2017, Le Sel Bistro, Saint Helens Avenue, Tacoma, WA, USA
Such a wonderful life celebration this morning! Scott and I feel so honored to have been a part of it from our living room in Tacoma. Thank you, John, for having the strength and vision to take your time to plan for today’s event so you could make it as lovely and meaningful as possible for Ted, his family, and all his beloved friends. It was beautiful, personal, and inspiring.
I am attaching a photo I came across recently when, for no particular reason, I stared going through my random saved emails. I came across one Ted sent me on March 7, 2017, a day or two after the four of us met for brunch. I didn’t know I still had this photo, buried in my google inbox, until I randomly started reviewing my saved messages..,again, no reason. I’m so grateful Ted insisted we pose for the photo, that he sent it to me, and that somewhere deep inside, I knew it was an important one to keep. If I remember correctly, the brunch was OK, but the company was better.
One other special memory I have with Ted is walking home with him one night after a Bates Technical College graduation — he was doing interim work there as an administrator after he retired from CPTC, and I was a trustee. We both took off our regalia and decided to walk home together along the waterfront, maybe a mile or so. I honestly cannot remember if I met him or John first, but that walk was the most time I spent with just Ted, and it was lovely. The May sky was clear and all was quiet as we headled home (our condo was just up the hill from Ted and John’s). What I remember is a peaceful, beautiful, interesting walk with my new best friend ( ;) ).
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Wow John, I am so sorry for your loss. He was a wonderful person, very compassionate and the most wonderful boss. A boss I could call a friend, very rare. He saw others, and truly saw them - it didn't matter who they were. I admired him as a person and as a leader. He made himself accessible and made it a point to get to know all his team, what they did, he was truly interested in their craft. People knew he cared, his team knew he cared. I shared professional moments, fun moments talking about decorating, colors and aesthetics and so much more. He was a very funny guy and made me laugh often, especially in his very anticipated Christmas letters which I enjoyed very much. I truly didn't expect to hear this news, but it does warm my heart that he lead a well lived life, very intentional and was surrounded by those he loved in his last moments. Truly my heart aches for those he leaves behind. He was and will continue to be a beautiful example to all of us.
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John, thank you for letting me know. May your treasured memories of our beloved Ted be strong and fierce, make you even as it breakes you, in days and the years ahead. Remember, nobody on this earth dies as long as they live in the heart of those who remain behind. Take care of yourself.
Love. Elisa Roe
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New Iberia Senior High (in the fall of 1974) would never be the same - Ted and I and 4or5 other "young" people were hired as teachers, which meant we were asked to chaperone most field trips and sponsor clubs, organizations, etc.
I think some of us newbies should have been the ones being chaperoned. Ted and I took a group to a camp in Leesville, LA. We had a great time, cooking, dancing, and getting "lost" in the woods, but the kids always found us ! What gave us away was Ted 's laughing. Ted always enjoyed laughing and finding joy in different ventures. I saw Ted a few years ago here in New Iberia, and we laughed constantly about our antics "back in the day." RIP Ted.
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John, I just now saw the news of Ted's passing. I am so sorry for your loss. While I didn't know Ted very well, I knew what a loving (and fun!) relationship the two of you had from listening to the way you always spoke about him.
I am sorry for the loss of your beloved husband.
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John, I am so sorry for your loss. Ted was indeed such a bright, beautiful and loving soul. He made the world a better place. I am grateful to have known him at least a little. I'm sending you love and support.
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My heart hurts for you, John, and it hurts for me as well. From the moment I met Ted a dozen years ago, I adored him. He was such a gracious, supportive spouse and always so much fun to be around. I will really treasure all the nice memories of the fun moments together. Wishing you peace and comfort and sending all my love to you and your families.
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John, there are no words. You had a special partner in your husband. My memory of the warmth of his smile and his love for you and unsentimental wry wit. May you find comfort in your grief knowing you loved and were loved. I am so very sorry.
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Hi John,
I am very sorry for your loss. There are so many of us in Washington State and beyond who are thinking about you during this time. I will pray for healing.
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John, I am so very sorry for your loss. I know how much Ted meant to you. Know that you are supported.
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Ted’s super power was his ability to connect people through humor, kindness, aesthetics, and of course, good cocktails and food! You always felt special and seen when you spent time with Ted, and you were always treated to excellent stories. It’s a magic the world will dearly miss.
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Hello John,
I am truly sorry for your loss. I am sending you love and strength. ❤
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John, I am so sorry for your tremendous loss. I can tell Ted was a priceless human that touched many lives, through professional and personal relationships. I'm sending you a virtual (((HUG))) with deep sympathy.
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John,
I am so saddened by this. You and your family are in my thoughts. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you.
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So sorry to hear this, John. Please know you are in my family's prayers. Strength and love to you.
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Dear John,
I just heard this news. I am so so very sorry. Sam and I had such a lovely time with you and Ted last summer. It was really fun getting to know him better.
His love for and devotion to you was so clear. What a wonderful life you had together.
We are sending you so much love and sharing your sorrow.
Love, Cassie Sauer
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