My heartache is overwhelming. I can’t possibly distill a 50 year old friendship that was cut too short into a single paragraph.
I met Steve in preschool. The teacher was holding up his bumble bee picture he colored remarking on his talent and his staying within the lines! I knew I wanted to be his friend at that moment and went to sit next to him and we were best of friends since. We had so many antics from grade school onward—from piano to disco lessons, enacting original SNL skits, laughing and playing jokes on people incessantly and driving our families crazy! Oh Snuffy, there is a weiner dog comb waiting for you.
Every time we got together, we were 12 again, laughing non-stop, singing and joking. We progressed along our life journeys with a deep connection. Steve was always there for me through everything. He had my back without question, and I his. He was loyal, witty, sarcastic, funny, had an infectious laugh and was just passionate about life. He loved kids, animals, the ocean, the environment and we experienced the wonder of nature together on many trips. He was an artist, a linguist, a dog dad and a true adventurer. He was always looking out for those who needed help and lifted them up to heal and see the good in themselves. Did I mention laughter???!!!
My heart goes out to all his many friends and his family. He was one of a kind with an unparalleled sense of humor and knowing he was so well loved brings me comfort. The world will miss his light, but I know he will still be present for us. He was my dear friend, my partner in crime and my soulmate.
Steve---my Cheetah,
May your freezer runneth over with popsicles now. I will forever love you! I know you will still be by my side and I will be listening and talking with you for the rest of my days.
