I began to miss Donald, my friend, neighbor and with Joan's blessing, sometimes "boyfriend," several years ago as that horrible disease began to take him away from us. Little by little gone were the in depth conversations about books that he'd read (and he could devour a book!); the humorous give and take across the fence of our yards, the discussions of sports and world events. For awhile after Alzheimer's took hold, he still could be engaged in reminiscing about his very early years - family, sports, life guarding, walking with his dog, serving at St. Bridget's "across the street" as an alter boy, and, of course, about golf. He could bring the past to life with his tales.

I know he is in a better place now but there will always be an empty spot in my heart that was Donald's. Rest in Peace!