Dr. da Gama

Dr. da Gama, I called him and he would say "GONZZAGA!." I loved him so much that one day I asked him to marry me. And yesterday, hearing of his passing wished I had tried harder to talk him into it. He just smiled that broad smile that covered his whole face and didn't even answer. As I read the blogs, I tear up realizing that his life was not all about me. In a sense you may think I am being egotistical, but the truth is as you all know, when Gonzaga was with you, you were the only one and it was all about you. He was so engaged in the moment and if you were ever lucky enough to be in his moment you were pulled into the very essence of the now. I love Gonzaga and I cannot feel bad that he has left us since I am so grateful for the time he gave to me. And to his friends, students, coworkers and family, I promise you I will only remember his time here as precious and loving, engaging, humanitarian, joyful and strong~~a great friend, a great mentor. What a gift we share.

Respectfully,

Karon Fleming, Office Coordinator

Department of Physics and Astronomy

San Jose State University