Dear family,
We are saddened to hear of your loss, and grateful that you shared your father with us for all these years. Your father was universally respected and liked on this forum, both for his thoughtful subjects of conversation, and for his respectful and gracious nature which transcended the boundaries of our internet format. He will be missed, but remembered fondly.
Dan and I exchanged a good many late night or early morning conversations about a broad variety of subjects, all thoughtful and sincere. I still have one message he sent me over three years ago; where out of the blue, Dan offered a compliment that is still meaningful to me, and for which I will remember him always.
Perhaps the most meaningful record we have of your father's character, is the thoughtful and courageous way he dealt with his health and considered your future without him. Rest assured, you all meant the world to your father, your well-being was foremost in his mind. And while you are undoubtedly suffering great sadness as you move through this difficult time, search thoroughly for the fondest and most cherished memories you can muster, and seal them now in your heart. And that will see you through this time in a way that will honor him and all he meant to each of you.
Fondly and in Dan's memory,
Charles Russell--Corky