I remember meeting John for the first time at Ellen's home in Berkeley. Ellen and I met as teachers at Bay School. She was a great moral support to me when I had kids and I was thrilled when I learned about this great guy she was seeing. But I didn't know he'd be joining us that day in Berkeley. The plan was for me and my spouse to bring our kids, then 3 and 5, to Ellen's house to pick lemons and then ride the steam train in Tilden Park. When I expressed my delight and surprise to John at his being present, he smiled his twinkly-mischievous smile and said, "What, you think I'd miss this?" That pretty much cemented my affection for him. He was clearly not there just to watch and be entertained. He lifted my kids up to find lemons, helped them add sugar to their too-tart drinks, and then, later, he climbed into the little steam train with them and laughed as they munched on the treats Ellen brought them. I wasn't expecting to meet someone new that day and I wasn't expecting to get to know someone I'd like so much. More importantly, it was soul-warming to know that my friend, Ellen, had a guy who was such a great match for all her wonderful qualities. We had at least one other family outing together, a year or so later. We went to Chez Panisse cafe. Both Ellen and John were so patient with my kids - and with us, the rookie parents, who let them order way too much food. I was looking forward to more get-togethers with Ellen and John. It is a gift to have friends in your life who delight in your children. And John and Ellen always shared that gift with us. Too much time had passed since we'd all seen each other when we heard the sad news that John was gone. We will miss you John and we are so glad we got to know you just a bit. We send our condolences to all John's family and loved ones who mourn his loss. And Ellen, you are especially in our hearts.