The past few days have been rather rough for me as I found out Saturday afternoon that my friend and officiating partner for the last two years passed away on Wednesday. I saw him just a week before I left for England and upon hearing the news I am feeling a real void in my life. He seemed to be doing well as I was busy replying to an e-mail he sent me just last Sunday.
I have never met someone who loved life more than he. His laugh was in one word: contagious. He became so animated and loud when he laughed that you couldn't help but feel good inside as you watched literal 'happiness' emanate from his body. For me, he made officiating at Westridge something to look forward to, and for those of you that don't know, that was almost impossible to do.
What I respected the most about him was his strive to do the right thing despite how trivial others may view it. And I think what I will miss most about him is the respect he had for me. He always told me that he had my back in every decision I made on or off the ice and he would never defame me. I couldn't ask for a better partner, much less friend.
He came to me on countless occasions to discuss everything from the game of hockey to the game of life. But what I find more amazing is that I sought to model my actions and intentions after this man as he exuded a demeanor that was righteous.
I just pray that as his family and friends mourn the loss of this precious individual, you all would please keep me and everyone that knew him in your prayers. May we all find solace in the passing of my dear friend and partner, Tony.
Later man.
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