Hi folks, what’s shakin’? Not much here…HA!  I am crazy busy, and lovin’ it. But this isn’t about me, This is a goodbye.

    Monday, May 11, We lost a great man. His name was Robert Williams. I cannot say, that I am sad, although, I am saddened. I will miss Bob, because Bob was… just Bob. Let me clearly state, that, Bob would kick my behind, if he knew that I referred to him as “Great”, but, that was what made him so worthy of that adjective. He was, and will remain a hero to generations of people, from, soldiers, to transplant recipients, to his students and mentee’s, and most importantly to his wife and children.

    If you Mayo nurses recall, Bob was the guy who would call me up, day or night, and make me laugh, during some of the most scary, painful moments imaginable.  He was the alter ego to Sherrell, as they would collaborate, and implement the “good cop, bad cop” routine on me. Sherrell and I have shed many tears, in the last several days. Speaking for myself, though, they are mostly tears of rejoicing.

     Bob is home. He and I had a conversation, days before he died. He told me, that he is where he wanted to be spiritually, and, that his soul would be in heaven. I knew, that day, that, when we said goodbye, and hung up the phone, that, we had just had our final conversation. Typical Bob. I had called to offer comfort and support, and he did all of the talking, and I ended up being the one who was comforted.

    I am honored, that Bob, took such pleasure in knowing me. I don’t know what he saw in me, that peaked his interest, but I would imagine, that everyone who ever met him, felt special. That was his way. He would tell some incredible stories. Somehow, the listener would lose track of time and space. I read the commentary on his CaringBridge site, and the theme was repeated frequently…the stories he would tell.

    Now, Bob is sitting at the feet of the best storyteller ever. Bob, save me a seat. I pray it is a long time before we meet, but to you, now, it will be but a blink of an eye. I love you, Bob. You know that. Your family, even now, is drawing closer, to Sara. You have raised some beautiful children, and left a legacy, of family, friends, smiles, and of organ donation awareness. It is time to rest, now, Bob. Rest in Peace.

     Folks, please continue to pray, for Bob’s family.  I will visit again, soon. Much has happened since last time. I love you all.