John was a close friend for fully 50 years, from the time we entered eighth grade until he suffered a fatal heart attack in September 2011. Smart, independent-minded, sensitive and fundamentally decent, he was a careful observer who sought true meaning in his life. When he dropped out of college at 20, he told me he would never again do anything he wasn't fully committed to. He returned to school almost a decade later, when he knew what he wanted to study and really wanted to go back. He was a supportive and loyal friend always. When I came out to family and friends in 1974, John's response was one of the most reassuring, affectionate and unconditionally supportive reactions I got - by no means assured in those days. I miss him a great deal and think of him often. The attached photo shows John with his first child, circa 1977.
How fortunate you are to have such beautiful memories. I barely knew John in Roslyn, but at our 45th we had a long conversation at the picnic, followed by some emails focused on his writing. I am grateful I got to know him a bit before he passed.
Daniel, thanks so much for sharing your memories of John. I was so sad to see that he passed away. I knew him at East Hills School when he was suffering from asthma and he was always sweet and brave. He clearly often had trouble breathing but never let that affect his good nature.
What an incredibly moving tribute to John. I never knew John in high school but, like Glenna I had the opportunity to speak with him at the reunion. We talked about our younger days as I too had dropped out of college and returned when I was older. I am glad I had the opportunity to know him a bit. John was so fortunate to have you as a friend Daniel.
Daniel Lyons
John was a close friend for fully 50 years, from the time we entered eighth grade until he suffered a fatal heart attack in September 2011. Smart, independent-minded, sensitive and fundamentally decent, he was a careful observer who sought true meaning in his life. When he dropped out of college at 20, he told me he would never again do anything he wasn't fully committed to. He returned to school almost a decade later, when he knew what he wanted to study and really wanted to go back. He was a supportive and loyal friend always. When I came out to family and friends in 1974, John's response was one of the most reassuring, affectionate and unconditionally supportive reactions I got - by no means assured in those days. I miss him a great deal and think of him often. The attached photo shows John with his first child, circa 1977.
Mark Liss
What a wonderful picture and what wonderful words. Thank you for sharing both.
Glenna Dumey
How fortunate you are to have such beautiful memories. I barely knew John in Roslyn, but at our 45th we had a long conversation at the picnic, followed by some emails focused on his writing. I am grateful I got to know him a bit before he passed.
Laurie Klinger (Brandt)
Daniel, thanks so much for sharing your memories of John. I was so sad to see that he passed away. I knew him at East Hills School when he was suffering from asthma and he was always sweet and brave. He clearly often had trouble breathing but never let that affect his good nature.
Isabel Tiffen
What an incredibly moving tribute to John. I never knew John in high school but, like Glenna I had the opportunity to speak with him at the reunion. We talked about our younger days as I too had dropped out of college and returned when I was older. I am glad I had the opportunity to know him a bit. John was so fortunate to have you as a friend Daniel.