In 1962 my father, the handsome fellow to the bride’s right, served as best man to the other handsome fellow pictured here. The groom, Bob Muthig and his wife Darlene, remained close friends of my parents through the end of their lives. Yesterday on the fourth anniversary of my Mom’s passing, Darlene lost her husband of 58 years.

I’m personally not much of believer in the afterlife, but if you are, then you and I can enjoy the thought that these three are sitting at the pearly gates right now sharing a heavenly beer and reminiscing about the “good ole days”.

I didn’t really think that my heart could hurt more yesterday, but I was wrong. As much as such a reunion might sound appealing, it comes as pain and heartache to those that loved him here on Earth. I send you my most sincere sympathy. I know the sadness and loss that you are experiencing. I think it is a badge of love that we wear forever. A scar of a life lived fully with love and memories that cannot help themselves but to float up to the surface when you least expect it.

Darlene, Tracy, Kim and all that loved Bob find peace and healing soon.