August 12, 2004

Dear Edna,

The news of Don’s passing has caused me to stop and savor the influence your husband, lover and friend has had on me.

Our 20 year plus friendship was not intertwined that either of us took each other for granted.

Blocks of time could pass all too quickly like they do, yet we could pick up our friendship as though there was never a second lost.

We most often found ourselves teamed up on projects that allowed us both to indulge in a passion we each deeply enjoyed and perused as our life’s vocations...building.

I watched him deal with decisions by committee that could "drive a man to drink". As irritated as I might have gotten at the situation, I never saw him provoked enough to speak words that can never be taken back.

He told me that patience can never be possessed, it can only be practiced. The kindness in his eyes was never a cover for a harsh word from his mouth.

It was never necessary for him that I believe exactly as he did on important topics of life. His spirit was solid and secure and not threatened by the questions and ideas of others.

His love of family, friends and life was deep. His style was smooth, easy, honest and genuine.

Edna, I cherish these things that I have learned and now try to practice, from the life example of Don, and I promise to greet the people in my world in the same spirit that Don always greeted me with......................................."Well, hello FRIEND!". I will miss my friend, and I send you my love.

Greg Dunbar