I am crushed at the news of Bernie's death. One of my oldest friends, dating back to Cooper Union in 1953 and continuing in various iterations during those 67 years.  Mostly phone calls, an occasional email, but we always communicated because we loved and respected each other and our life's work. 
We shared many ideas, political (how could you not), social, professional, and I always loved hearing his graspy, Bronx confected voice.....and I am so sad knowing that I will never again hear him say "hello, Bennie, this is Bernie, how ya doing"
Lots more in the memory storehouse which I would love to share with family and friends. I dreaded the day I would lose my friend Bernie.  He will have to watch the demise of Donald Trump from the other side, and he will be joyful.
Love you buddy, and I send my warmest condolences to Vickie, Michael, Denis, Amy and the grandchildren.