Sadness

Today was a sad day and my heart feels raw & my eyes continue to leak tears.

Our good friend & business partner, Jim Walton, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer 20 months ago. As often seems to happen, Jim had finally retired and was looking forward to puttering around his newly built dream home in Lewis County & taking time to fish and hunt and camp; many of the activities we put off until 'we have the time'. That time never materialized for Jimmy as his illness quickly forced itself into the center of his existence. Throughout his illness, Jimmy would tell us,with no complaint, that he had lived a full life and 'when the contract is up, it's up'. He bore his illness with typical Jimmy stoicism.

If Jimmy were a dog breed he would be a Newfoundland - big and 'in-your-face' but as loyal and steady as they come. He was well loved by people from all walks of life and his celebration of life potluck was well attended by family, former Army buddies, ex-employees, fellow contractors, countless friends, and friends of friends and friends of relatives. There was laughter and tears as folks shared their stories of his bluster and his gentleness.

I'd be a little less of a person today if I had never met Jimmy. He added texture to my life.

I miss him....