My heartache is overwhelming. I can’t possibly distill a nearly 50-year friendship that was cut too short into a single paragraph.
I met Steve in preschool. Ms. Jackson was holding up his bumble bee picture he colored remarking on his talent and his staying within the lines! I knew I wanted to be his friend at that moment and went to sit next to him and we were best of friends since. We had so many antics from grade school onward—from piano to disco lessons, enacting original SNL skits, laughing and playing jokes on people incessantly and driving our families crazy! We convinced people in our class that we were siblings because we were the same person!
Every time we got together over the years, we were 12 again; laughing non-stop, singing and joking. We progressed along our life journeys with a deep and constant connection. Steve was always there for me through everything. He had my back without question, and I his. He was loyal, witty, sarcastic, funny, had an infectious laugh and was just passionate about life. He loved kids, animals, the ocean, the environment and we experienced the wonder of nature together on many trips. He was an artist, a linguist, a dog dad and a true adventurer. He was always looking out for those who needed help and lifted them up to heal and see the good in themselves. He knew me like no one else and he met all of the important people in my life and was a part of me. We had movie marathons for hours while we drank champagne and wine to celebrate life.
My heart goes out to his many friends and family. He was one of a kind with an unparalleled sense of humor and knowing he was so well loved brings me comfort. The world will miss his light, but I know he will still be present for us. He was my dear friend, a brother, my partner in crime and my soulmate.
When you come to the edge of all that you know, you must believe in one of two things: there will be earth upon which to stand or you will be given wings. (Author unknown) This quote seems to encompass our discussions at times. It is rare to find an individual that knows you so well and that you can rely on and connect with throughout all the instances in your life. I was his family.
Steve---Stephanopoulos, Cheetah,
I will forever love you! I know you will still be by my side and I will be listening and talking with you for the rest of my days.
Michelle—Chimpy, Daktari,