Friends,
I am very sad to let you guys know that Larry, part of our Cafe gang is not doing well.
He was diagnosed with cancer in March. Apparently it was already at an advanced stage and he has gone downhill very rapidly since.
Larry has become a good friend - we talked often about photography and everything else. He is a very intelligent, compassionate, and kind man. He has extensively traveled, having been to potentially every country on the planet. He had great stories to tell from his travels and his experiences. He visited us in Michigan and my wife and I had a chance to meet and spend time with him and his wife. Truly two wonderful human beings.
I have been in touch with him regularly and am very sad about his rapid decline. Last week I spoke with him and he requested that I visit him, if possible. His wife also called to request the same. I am driving to Chicago on Sunday to spend some time with him. He is under Hospice care and they are doing their best to keep him comfortable.
Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers. I am deeply saddened by the fact that he may not be with us too much longer.
Also, please remind yourselves that life is a gift. That every day is a gift that should never be taken for granted. That living in the past and/or future is stealing from oneself. That deferring the things we desire to do by saying "someday I'll do that" is a mistake. Carpe Diem, as the man once said.
Hope all of you are well and staying safe.
Sincerely,
-raaj
Friends,
I am very sorry to let you know that Larry passed away this morning. I had a text from him wife at 5:30 a.m. that he had passed away in the night. My trip to see him today was not to be.
Larry was a passionate photographer and painter, a man with a zest for life. Truly a terrific human being and a great friend.
Rest in Peace, Larry. You are missed.
Sincerely,
-raaj
Thanks, Ulana. It's tough losing friends...
Hope you and family are well and staying safe.
Friends,
For those of you that didn't get a chance to meet with Larry, here is an image of his that his family are using in his Obituary:
To me this image is a terrific representation of Larry - he was always smiling, loved to travel and generally exuded joy at all times.
Cheers,
-raaj
Indeed a sad news to know.
Thanks for writing that last paragraph, Raj. Very important reminder.
Also, please remind yourselves that life is a gift. That every day is a gift that should never be taken for granted. That living in the past and/or future is stealing from oneself. That deferring the things we desire to do by saying "someday I'll do that" is a mistake. Carpe Diem, as the man once said.