Eleven years ago today, I lost my best friend

[WRGA Dog]

I still miss him and love him like a brother.   I first met Norm when my job took me to Florida and I purchased the house across the street from him.   We were both young, Army veterans, and just starting our careers, and families.  He was originally from PA and I from Georgia.  He was an avid Gator fan, just out of law school, and I an avid Dawg fan.  He was a disabled veteran, having been seriously wounded in Viet Nam.  Although I served in the Army, all  of my time was spent stateside on an Air Force base.  Despite our background differences, we held lots of values and attitudes in common, along with a strong desire to succeed in our chosen careers. So, we quickly bonded and grew into lifelong friends.

Today, on the eleventh anniversary of his death, his wife shared a letter he wrote shortly before passing. The letter reflects upon the totality of their life together, and the people who were important to them during the journey.  My wife and I read the letter together and a flood of emotions, cherished memories, and profound sadness overwhelmed us. We both cried as we read his words reflecting upon the many good times our families had as our children grew.  Despite the sadness., we both know Norm is in heaven and that gives us comfort.  Rest in peace my dear friend until we meet again.

Sorry guys, but it has been an emotional day around here.

[gulfportdawg]

I still miss him and love him like a brother.   I first met Norm when my job took me to Florida and I purchased the house across the street from him.   We were both young, Army veterans, and just starting our careers, and families.  He was originally from PA and I from Georgia.  He was an avid Gator fan, just out of law school, and I an avid Dawg fan.  He was a disabled veteran, having been seriously wounded in Viet Nam.  Although I served in the Army, all  of my time was spent stateside on an Air Force base.  Despite our background differences, we held lots of values and attitudes in common, along with a strong desire to succeed in our chosen careers. So, we quickly bonded and grew into lifelong friends.

Today, on the eleventh anniversary of his death, his wife shared a letter he wrote shortly before passing. The letter reflects upon the totality of their life together, and the people who were important to them during the journey.  My wife and I read the letter together and a flood of emotions, cherished memories, and profound sadness overwhelmed us. We both cried as we read his words reflecting upon the many good times our families had as our children grew.  Despite the sadness., we both know Norm is in heaven and that gives us comfort.  Rest in peace my dear friend until we meet again.

Sorry guys, but it has been an emotional day around here.

No apology needed. Sounds like he was a great friend.

[Top Row Dawg]

Bless him and you and all your families.

[E.CobbDawg]

We should all hope for and cherish friendships like that.  Thanks for sharing.

[ToccoaDog]

True friends are hard to find, sounds like you had a good one.