I was saddened to hear of Top’s passing. What an amazing person and what a remarkable life. I feel so lucky that I had the pleasure of meeting him.

I met Top through Steven Guthrie. Steven was one of the Marine Security Guards stationed in Cairo, Egypt. When Steven first introduced me, I felt intimidated and was worried he would not care much for the girlfriend of one of the Marines, but that was not the case here. From the first moment I met Top you could sense what a good and generous person he was. He was very welcoming and funny. On numerous occasions he would say to me (even in front of Steven) that I could do better. What did I know I was in love.

When Steven and I decided to get married in Cairo I was sad since my dad died and I would not have my dad to walk me down the aisle. Steven suggested I should ask Top. I told him I couldn’t and would he even want to. Once I got the nerve to ask Top, I was pleasantly surprised that without any hesitation he said yes, absolutely would be my honor!!

I was so glad to have reconnected in 2016 with Bill and Sharon. When I asked him if he remembered me (it had been 28 years later), he said my wedding was one of the best memories of Cairo.

I will never forget his kindness and how such a little act meant the world to me, and I will always be grateful.

May God give him eternal rest and the family the strength to bear the great pain.