“Sam Has Left The Building” copyright 2008 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

Losing a dear friend is always a very sad thing; having that lost happen during the Christmas season is especially sad (Sam passed away on December 15th, 2008).  To me, Sam Shields was a very special individual, and I will miss him very much.  

Sam was a beautiful man.

A man of presence

standing six foot five

at over two hundred and fifty pounds.

 

He had the gentle qualities of a Teddy Bear.

I never remember Sam being anything but

warm, generous, with words of kindness

on every occasion we were together.

 

If I could have had someone to pick

as an older brother

I would have picked Sam.

 

Sam died suddenly from a massive stroke.

The doctors said his life could have been saved

but he would have been a total vegetable.

 

I know Sam would not have wanted that. 

Sam had been an engineer with Boeing

for forty-six years.

 

He never spoke of what kind of work he did.

He would laughingly say, “If I told you, I then

would have to kill you.”

 

I am going to miss Sam terribly.

They do not make men

like him

anymore.

 

 

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