Our beloved leader, mentor, friend, and man with the biggest heart we've ever met passed away on Thanksgiving.  He died of stomach cancer, though he only let very few people know, so it came as quite a shock to everyone at the firm and almost everyone (other than close family and one or two business associates).  I thought we were handling it pretty well, save for a lot of tears on Monday when we were given the news.  He was just 36 years old.  He leaves a hole in the lives of many, many people, though I guess fortunately no children - but he would have been such a great dad.  I'm sorry he never knew that joy.  But on three separate occasions today we went to pick up the phone to call him - and realized he wasn't there to answer anymore.  Gary, in particular, is not handling this very well because they were very close.  He was one of the three partners of our firm, but he was the driving force of the small firm.  We don't know what happens from here, though everyone bravely continues on.

His passing leaves a hole in our hearts as big as an iceberg - and just as cold.  We have the warmth of our memories, but on days like today it provides little comfort.

At our Christmas party last year, I couldn't tell anything was wrong.  But Gary knew, somehow, that something was wrong.  I thought he was nuts.  But because he only let so few people in on his fight, it came as a shock to so many of us.  Perhaps that's what is making it so much harder. 

Len - you were very loved, and we miss you like crazy.

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I wouldn't expect any of you to write anything in his guestbook, not having known him and not really knowing us yet.  But I'd really appreciate a few vibes or prayers for his family, friends, and co-workers - so many for whom this came as a total shock, because Len didn't want anyone to know he was battling that illness.  It's just so "him" to be so brave.   

Thanksgiving will never be the same.

Thanks for listening,

Laurie      

So sorry.

Laurie, People from up here in the Midwest have a lot of heart! Leonard C. Demers from Woodbury (only a 20 min drive from my home) is a prime example of selflessness that all of us should and could take a lesson from. Rolo...

Sometimes fate has it's own agenda unknown to us.  Believe that.

And try to find hope that this is a message that is meant to teach, rather than a loss to be mourned.

My instict tells me this, and there is a lesson in this that must be passed on.

I just had to say what this said to me, and please forgive me if I'm out of place.

I'm so sorry, Laurie. My deepest sympathies to you, Gary,  Len's family and all those who knew and loved him.

Loss is difficult....may your fond memories ease some of the pain.  He will live in your hearts forever.

Much Love,
Jackie

It hurts like heck to lose friends but I am so glad to know you had such a special person like this in your life....even if it was for a short time.

Celebrate his life and smile when you think of him.  He seems like the kind of man that would have wanted it this way.

My thoughts are with you.

BTW, crying doesn't help Gary's clusters at all. !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 

Laurie

so sorry for your loss... this young man definately died too young.  He was lucky to have you as friends...

love ree

Len, ya big lug, we really miss you. 

Thank you all again and again.  It feels better "talking" about it and knowing there are so many people out there thinkin' about him and his family.

Laurie

So sorry for your and Gary's loss, Laurie.    I will you keep you both and Len's family in my prayers.

Hugs,

Jeannie