Addendum

John: I hope you are sitting down. . . the Giants won the pennant and then the World Series. What a wacky year you missed. Despite what I said in earlier posts, the Giants are great and the 49'er suck. Go figure. I completely missed my call on each. Luv you mon, swjr

Thanksgiving 2010

John: We continue to remember you and the way in which you touched our lives--legions of us whom you recruited and mentored in the business world as well as those of us whom you embraced as friends. You challenged us and you complimented us. Your steady hand is sorely missed as is your sense of humor. When I gave thanks today, I gave thanks for the indelible imprint you left. We miss you so much, Stryker

John: While we all continue to satisfy daily responsibilities, it is impossible to ignore your absence. Bryce has just reminded all of us to reflect on your birthday--and to do so in a fashion consistent with your preferences and behaviors. I did not wait until your September birthday. You taught me how to live years ago, so much of the behaviours have become involuntary reflexes.

The seasons change, we grow older and hopefully wiser, and we count our blessings. A week does not pass without my seeing something that reminds me of you. You have left an indelible print on so many.

I trust you spend your afternoons in meanignful discussions with Janet and Kit. I have attempted to be a frequent visitor to Ross Street where I can ply my gardening prowess, but I have rather been infrequent.

The Oakland A's are awful, the Giants ambivalent about first place, but the expectations sky-high for your 49'ers. Since last there with you, I have not returned to Ft. Ross to dive for abalone. We toasted you at Harlan Mathews' games dinner two weeks ago. Governor McWhorter was effusive in his comments about "Dr. John". Phil, Pete, Harry Lee, Harlan and I all shared a toast to our dear friend, "Dr. John".

Most importantly, please know Jacqui has been remarkably strong and focused. How she misses you. You were always so proud of her; she has outdone you this time.

John, we miss you so much, Stryker

From Bryce, on your birthday

Hope everyone will raise a glass of good wine today, or possibly repair a broken pipe, change a flat tire, read a good book, drink a strong cup of coffee, pet a friendly dog, work hard at the office, weed a while in the garden, take a brief nap, tell a clever joke, and cook a fine meal with someone you love before a bowl of ice cream and falling asleep in front of a movie.

Happy Birthday, Uncle John.  I miss you.