Gonzaga

Just a few minutes ago, my husband, Bake, and I learned of our dear friend Gonzaga's passing, and only because he was surfing around the internet and looking up Gonz' name to see what our ever active friend (!) has been up to. It is a testament to the memory of Gonzaga that he sometimes seemed bigger than life, seeming to make time for everyone in his life in some way, and remembering to keep in touch with everyone he knew~including us, even when we failed to do so, such as this summer when we awaited news of your return (hence, hubby's searching on the web for his latest activity). And as much as I'm on Facebook, I hadn't even bothered to look on his page, either.

Ever since we met him in '91 in church (which none of us attend now), he has given us countless hours of laughter, deep (and not-so-deep!) discussions, challenges to our thinking and goals and everything in between. He affected our lives in a BIG way, as he had a VERY BIG heart, as anyone who knew him can attest to. Both our extended families welcomed him into their lives, especially my in-laws. Who could NOT be touched by Gonzaga?!

Gonzaga was our best buddy. He was often like a big brother to me, as well as best friend. He ALWAYS made me laugh because his laugh was so contagious! I think that is what I will miss about him most: his hearty laugh. :-) His annual visits to the east coast to visit us. When he was in grad school at U of M, he used to tell us the only time he got sleep was when he came to visit Jennifer and Bake! And indeed, he did spend the majority of time sleeping during his stay with us! But that was fine, because he was our dear friend and we wanted to look after him, as he looked after us.

I have a smiling Gonzaga photo taken during his last visit, last fall, sitting on our bookshelf. Looking at his smiling photo reminds us of his ceaseless drive for justice and human rights for the disabled and forgotten members of our society (abused and foster children). He definitely inspired Bake and I to become advocates for human rights issues and supported our causes.

We will miss him sorely. His presence. His laughter. His annual visits. His phone calls. For nearly two decades he enriched our lives immeasurably. He had SO much love to spread around! I can't believe you're gone, my friend. My heart aches for you, Gonz...you left us way too soon.

Jennifer J. L. Timmons
Princess Anne, MD