ForeverMissed
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This memorial website was created to hold the memories we share of  Dr. John Whitney.

The quote above is from Winnie the Pooh... John added "Believe It" and it was in a last words folder for those of us left behind. 

John has touched, changed and enriched so many of our lives and careers.  Never one to boast  an accomplishment or seek accolades, he lived his life in service to others through his beliefs, ideals and passions.

Whether he was your friend, mentor and/or colleague we invite you to share how John touched your life.

He will indeed be forever missed. We hope that this sharing creates a tribute to the exceptional individual whose life's path crossed and touched all of ours. 

You can share a few words here or share a story and memory under the stories tab or about a photo you may recognize.  And please upload and share any photos you may have of John.  Check back as I hope this site continues to grow as we all share in the memories of JTW.  

 



   

February 21
February 21
Dear John,

You are missed. Muchly. 11 years today. Yep. Still counting.

How to stay sane and true to yourself in a crazy world is a topic worthy of a John discussion these days. I refer daily to the saying you had taped to your desk “That which is like unto itself, is drawn”. It along with your words in my head remind me that the law of attraction is at the root of everything I experience … every thought, every encounter, every bit of contrast and resistance and every juicy moment. What a gift you gave to so many by teaching this profoundly transformational concept and patiently, repeatedly encouraging us to get it right in our heads. It helps me most when choosing where to place my thoughts in chaotic, disturbing times.

If you were here now, we could excitedly discuss AI Whitney! In this last year artificial intelligence has evolved to a point where we could capture the essence of your wit, wisdom, even your unique style and create frighteningly fabulous virtual avatars of you. Dr. John on demand. I could sell that. I certainly would buy that!

Thank you for all you gave, that I could never buy- friendship, love, opportunity, status, education, clarity, guidance and an appreciation for really good nosh and conversation. Basically, the primer on living a good life. Here’s hoping the after-life party is a peachy one! Happy Freedom Day.
January 9
January 9
John, it's incredible how my popularity has skyrocketed. My mailbox is inundated daily with fan mail from Medicare and AARP, which I am sure you would have found as amusing as I find it impossible and overwhelming. The time has arrived and I owe an apology for my past insensitive remarks about your aging, as I've come to appreciate the invaluable tips you shared over the years. Stand up straight, move like a young person, keep your gaze forward, practice balance, and for gods sake, avoid cheap wine that stains your teeth.

Your wisdom continues to guide me, and I now deeply get what you taught me about a good laugh being balm for the soul. Recently, I stumbled upon a YouTube interview with Gladys McGarey, whom you introduced me to. She's now 102 and has a 10-year plan! Just like you, she exudes love and laughter effortlessly. I recognized her as a kindred spirit of yours.

Today would have been your 91st birthday. I'll raise a glass in a heartfelt toast to you- to your wisdom, humor, and unique perspectives that still guide and inspire me, even in your physical absence. You were a true connoisseur of life's delightful quirks, always capable of finding a pony in every pile of poo. John, your memory lives on as a testament to a life well-lived. Happy Birthday old man!
December 30, 2023
December 30, 2023
John was a friend and colleague of my father Dr. Barry Norton. I think about him often. He was the first person to show me the internet. And the first person, at 6 years old, to rely on me for directions to the liquor store. The only friend of my parents with a ponytail, he was eccentric and engaging. He was a good friend to my father, especially in his dying days.
February 21, 2023
February 21, 2023
If you were gone for a decade John, and dropped in with no knowledge of what you missed, I think even you would be shocked with the stories we could share about these last 10 years. Sadly, you have been gone for a decade as of today, with no sign of a recent drop in, but I have been shocked for you. 

Actually, those of us who miss you and hold you in our hearts, minds and memories, still project what you would have to say about everything from the politics in the last decade, to the mRNA vaccines, to our pandemic, the first ever image of a black hole, telemedicine, virtual reality, block chain technology, Timothy Leary’s work resurfacing and mostly the incredible advancements of AI and its myriad applications. 

That’s right John, AI is now capable of replacing your wordsmithing skills. No more sitting with a yellow legal pad, a cuppa coffee, or glass of wine and scribbling the perfect précis. A $20/month subscription and a few key words fed into the computer and wha-la, as many words as you want, in whatever voice you want it in. You were prolific without it, so I can’t imagine what you would produce with it. I certainly wouldn’t worry as much about your occasional “repurposing”. 

Truth be told, AI can generate words but it cannot capture the essence of being able to communicate the Whitney wit and wisdoms that have survived and nurtured myself and others for the last decade.

One decade without you Dr. Whitney- you are indeed forever missed but still making a difference for so many of us.
February 4, 2023
February 4, 2023
I was just going through piles of “stuff” that I’ve collected and saved in the last four decades of being a Chiropractor. I came across pages and pages of notes from some of John’s seminars. I’m purging! I’m beginning a new chapter in my life. One that begins with me not being a Chiropractor. Yep, I’m retiring! It will feel strange not being the person that I’ve defined myself as being for so many years….. a person that John helped make a successful Chiropractor. He was not just my mentor, he became my friend. I met John when he first introduced his management company to the states. I quickly adopted his “laid back “ management style and his approach to patient care. Ultimately, I opened three offices that that did very well due to having implemented the “Whitney Management” strategies. As I now close out the chiropractic chapter of my life, I say, “Thank you John, for having helped me write a beautiful, glorious story”. You’ll never be forgotten!
Peace,
Dennis
January 9, 2023
January 9, 2023
So John….. 90 years old in earth school years today. I don’t know if you would have been a cool 90 or simply an 'over it' 90- especially with the happenings of this last decade. You used to say everything old is new again. Wonder how that would have applied to you. You would have seen a lot in your lifetime and perhaps that experience would have lent a much needed perspective. In the meantime, I still appreciate the wisdom(s) you imparted during your life. It serves many of us well as we continue to walk through these “interesting times”. I hope you are wiser, better, loved and even more celebrated now then you were here. Happy Birthday Jake.
February 21, 2022
February 21, 2022
In my dream last night you looked great. You were teaching students and in your element. I've heard rumblings from those that claim to have sneak peeks to the other side of the veil that you are still teaching- just differently. I always thought you would opt for the saffron robes on the other side, not the suit I saw you in last night. Maybe you dressed up for me. Hey, the very fact that you still show up for me in such vivid color makes me feel special and connected..... and that is all a mere mortal can ask for. John, if your eternity consists of learning, sharing, guiding, laughing and looking good doing it- then, all is well.  
January 9, 2022
January 9, 2022
Yeah, in earth years you would really be an old fart this year - 89. In eternity, you are probably considered a spring chicken. As the years pass my appreciation for your life and wisdom grow exponentially. What I wouldn't give to share a glass of good vino and get your take on current affairs! I swear I can hear you saying "Linnie- dont take it too seriously, nothing lasts forever." My love for you does John. Happy Birthday.
February 21, 2021
February 21, 2021
John, you were woven into many threads that created the fabric of my life..... and you continue to add to it. You are teaching me now, that relationships with those that have passed, morph, but they don't end. You reach out in ways that are deeply meaningful and undeniably you. You have allowed me to appreciate that life, well lived, leaves a lasting impression. And you have gifted me colorful memories that continue to inspire, motivate, laugh, love and live in gratitude for having walked with you. Happy ultimate freedom day John.
January 9, 2021
January 9, 2021
aahhh.... you are missed John. Your perspective on the last year would have been an interesting one.....one I would love to have had. Actually in many ways I am happy you were ( are) spared from so many events you would have found unconscionable. On the other hand, selfishly, your wit and wisdom would have been a bright spot in my life. Do what you can from the other side of the veil and please remind me as often as possible of the illusion. You were right.... we do take things too seriously. Happy Birthday in earth years.
February 21, 2020
February 21, 2020
Today it has been seven years. Seven short years, seven long years. There are many of us who credit John with launching our careers, allowing us to craft a successful livelihood and care for many. 

Working with John for over 30 years, I often cant tell if the voice in my head is mine or his . I have been asking for guidance surrounding the wealth of information John accumulated and taught. My path is to share the work with clients one on one. He was called to one on many.

This year I have landed on a "pay it forward" that I feel fitting.....  I am offering it for free to chiropractic students under a company name he chose but never used, called Rich Grad- Poor Grad. It will be an online adventure, driven by students and new graduates, and encompass all of Johns wisdom, perspectives, courses, philosophy and hopefully some of the wit.

It will be an ongoing undertaking and I welcome any of you who benefitted from his teachings to reach out to me if you are interested in contributing in any way to this legacy project - from testimonials to interviews.

Throughout his years he never forgot what it was like to be a new chiropractor in practice. He cared deeply for his profession and his clients. He used to say every student should have this course. Those of us who took it, probably agree..... it was an amazing launchpad into the transition of practice.

2020 seems to be a year of clarity and preparedness. I cant think of a better day, year or way to move this forward in gratitude and in his memory.
January 9, 2020
January 9, 2020
The world is a different place in the last seven years. I deeply miss my friend, partner and mentor. I don't know how much I would have had to reel him in regarding the political climate in the "excited states" ( as he would call it) and world at large - but I know it would have been spirited and interesting! I miss thinking about where we would dine for his birthday. His last birthday earth-side, he was with a dear friend in Florida. Seems we all wanted to feed him great flavors on his special day. He fed us the rest of the year, body, mind and spirit. Happy Birthday Birthday Boy.
September 20, 2019
September 20, 2019
Miss you John, with all the great things going in my life, it’s you who I miss most to talk to to share them with. Miss you lots man.
February 21, 2019
February 21, 2019
Johns passing feels like yesterday and forever ago. I know several of you have said to me that you visit this site but there is so much and yet nothing to write. I would encourage you to drop a memory. Or if you “feel” him with you- share it. Many of us carry his legacy forward every day - some of us still “coach” with him regularly- some hear his voice in their head- some feel the weight of his warm hand on their shoulders from the seminar days. We all are connected through his desire to make a difference, through his kindness, and through our loss. Here’s hoping the other side of the veil is as juicy for him as he made this side for us.
January 9, 2019
January 9, 2019
When you would ask John, how old do you feel, he would answer 34. When you asked John when he would leave the planet he would answer, when I am 86. He was never really great with numbers. I wish we would have had 6 more years of John. But I have to share that his legacy lives on. He taught many of us how to think, what was possible, how to create and how to heal ourselves and others. Whether at 80, 86 or 106..... he would be forever missed and yet forever with us. Happy 86 John - in earth years.
July 27, 2018
July 27, 2018
Woke up at 3:00 am feeling wide awake and excited to take on my day, and it was John.
John has been speaking to me all morning.
Telling me “you can do this, the universe has always been on your side and it is now”.
Think it and believe it.
February 21, 2018
February 21, 2018
In the last 5 years, more of my time has been spent moving, storing, and cataloging Johns writings and reading material than reading it (which I had promised myself I would).

But I have started...and I have laughed as I have found John in each book I read- whether it be a piece of toilet paper as a bookmark or a delicious scribble in the margin.

This morning I took a stroll through some computer files I have not yet had the time to explore and landed on a folder called "memorable". 

Awesomeness. It consisted of document with numbered entries, that were a collection of one line thoughtballs, excepts, quotes , vocabulary words, or jokes -. a treasure trove of John-isms. I wasn't sure which one to share today as there are hundreds of them. 

Number 47 is how I remember John. I accused him of always working and he would laugh and tell me he wasn't working- it was play. I raise a glass to John today and will noodle number 47 as my understanding and appreciation for his life, his contributions and our friendship continues to unfold:

#47. A Master in the Art of Living draws no distinction between his work & his play, his mind & his body, his education & his recreation. He hardly knows which is which. He simply pursues his vision of excellence to whatever he is doing, & he leaves others to determine whether he is working, or playing. To himself, he always seems to be doing both.
January 9, 2018
January 9, 2018
"Our birthdays are feathers in the broad wing of time."
--Jean Paul Richter

Thinking of John today...I was raised to be a "celebration" gal, so every milestone, holiday and birthday was a big deal. Not the same with John... who had very little need or desire for acknowledging the passing of time. So I am sure he is having a chuckle that on his birthday, 5 years after his passing, I still insist on writing a birthday tribute and will celebrate him! He is missed.
February 21, 2017
February 21, 2017
John LOVED Billy Holliday.... her music, her style...LOL he loved her so much that he even remembered the day she died - July 17th. Every year we would have a private Billy Holiday Memorial party. We would play her music, put white flowers in our hair and let him remember. He would tell me the same Billy Holiday stories every year. He had seen her in the clubs in Toronto. It was his thing. She impressed him. The only time it upset me was when he didn't remember my birthday yet would never forget her death day. I thought about that this morning and thought that from now on, February 21 will be a celebration- a John Whitney ultimate freedom day....a day to remember all things John. We all have different memories. I believe he would smile at his passing being toasted!
January 9, 2017
January 9, 2017
Ten years ago, for Johns birthday, I arranged a surprise "party". Since he was a guy who had everything he wanted, I thought it would be special for him to hear how he helped others get what they wanted. I arranged for a conference call where many of his past clients called in at the same time and shared their stories, their gratitude and birthday wishes. For those that participated, you simply cannot imagine how touched ( and surprised ) he was. Many who could not attend, sent emails. When I was going through his belongings, I found a printout in a "special" folder of those emails. It is interesting to observe what really matters in our lives and how with time and wisdom, it shifts. John made an impact on so many of us. Today on his birthday, I would love to suggest that what would make him proud and happy, is for us to pay a little of what he shared with us, forward. A special day for a special man. We were fortunate to know him.
September 6, 2016
September 6, 2016
It is with a light heart that this afternoon I pack up Johns archery gear and pass it on to an early client of his, who I came to find out is a bow hunter and into all things archery. Going through the tackle and shoe boxes to pack up the goodies for safe travels, I chuckled at the large number of Colmans Mustard Powder and sardine tins, now cleaned and repurposed for his passion. He could buy new, but always preferred the simpler, frugal, functional repurpose ( of everything!). These and so many more memories have now found a happy home to live in my heart instead of a sad, grieving place and I wish the same "happy" for the bow and the equipment that were such a large part of the final sport of his life. I am so grateful to be sending the bow to someone who will hold the history of its original owner.
May 14, 2016
May 14, 2016
Dr. Whitney continues to be one of the most influential people of my life. His image and words are as clear today as they were 12 years ago when we were last together. 

"If you can believe it, you can achieve it."
February 21, 2016
February 21, 2016
Three years is another crossroads of forever ago and yesterday to me. Perhaps because John "chirps" with me often and his sense of humor shows up when I least expect it. 

The most recent was his birthday in January. Last year, in a grocery store, I saw a man at a distance who looked like John to me. It was not a store I typically go to, but this year, on his birthday I happened to be near that store again, decided to stop and pick up some flowers there and said to John in my head.... "maybe I will run into you there and can give you a birthday hug"! 

As I was pulling into the parking space, a red car was pulling through to the same space from the opposite direction.... we almost "ran" into each other. You guessed it, it was the man who looked like John.( and he really did!) It was a surreal few minutes for me as I am sure it was for the guy I was telling my story to in the grocery store parking lot! What a lovely gentleman, and before departing, he gave me the best "john hug" I had received in about three years.

Another of many crazy, wonderful, reminders for me that John is still listening, whispering and nudging me to recognize that what goes on in my head, goes on in my life. To be careful what I think about and to watch for its manifestation..... parking lot John notwithstanding!

He is loved, missed and remember by so many amazing people....
January 20, 2016
January 20, 2016
I'm sorry to say that I lost touch with John and only recently learned of his passing. However, as many have said before me, his guidance and inspiration are never far away. He was one of my most trusted mentors and friends, and he'll truly be missed.
October 23, 2015
October 23, 2015
I lost track of a man who never knew how much he mentored me and meant to me. My loss. John was a class act with a heart of gold.
February 22, 2015
February 22, 2015
Some people leave a mark. John left imprints........
Always remembered with respect and admiration.
February 21, 2015
February 21, 2015
I stay busy with the work we used to do together - and in between the words that come out of my mouth, I still hear John. Two years later, it seems like our last chirp was yesterday and forever ago.
January 9, 2015
January 9, 2015
Jan, 9, 1933 is certainly a very special date, the day that John entered the world. Hard to picture him as a little baby, but I surely do remember him as I knew him, a handsome and dynamic man, with such a zest for life and knowledge. The mention of his name always leaves me with a smile in my heart.
January 9, 2015
January 9, 2015
I am reminded daily of his wit, wisdom and the impact of his lifes work. Today I am reminded of his smile and how the older he got, the kinder and gentler he became. He would have scoffed had I mentioned it...He is missed.
February 21, 2014
February 21, 2014
I am covered in "goosebumps" after reading Lyn's account of the story of your watch. You always do everything with such flair and style!
February 21, 2014
February 21, 2014
Hard to believe that it has been a year-- we talk about you as if you are still here, we laugh at your jokes like they were just told, we remember your wisdom, like it was just given, we share your perspective like we just heard it. I don't even really say good-bye, because your presence is felt like I'll round the corner and see you. Perhaps I will--so till next time!
February 21, 2014
February 21, 2014
When John passed he was wearing his swiss army watch. We took the watch and put it among his belongings. Days later, we noticed the watch was stopped... presumably at the time he transitioned. We thought when he fell it must have damaged the watch and when I had it looked at there was nothing apparently "wrong" with the watch. Not the stem or the battery. It just had stopped. Maybe a month or so later, I had a dream. The first dream where John stopped by. He said he came back to say goodbye. We were in the back of a taxi and I asked him why we were in a taxi? He said because he couldn't find his car, very matter of fact. It was a sweet goodbye. The next morning, I passed by the watch and it was running. It has been running all year..... until this morning.
January 9, 2014
January 9, 2014
Happy Birthday remembrance of John. Now that you are gone, I wish I had kept in touch with you over the years. Another life lesson. You were all about teaching life lessons........thanks for always sharing your zest for life and your wisdom for ways to always make it better.
January 9, 2014
January 9, 2014
Memories of birthdays past will have to fill the hole today. 

Happy Birthday Jakie. You would have made this one look easy too!
January 9, 2014
January 9, 2014
Happy Birthday, John my friend...We miss you, and remember you often. If you could directly share, it might be something like..."Miss Schmiss-- I see you just fine!" I am enjoying my bird's eye view, and shooting a few celestial arrows. ;-)
November 21, 2013
November 21, 2013
9 months today- seems like yesterday and forever ago at the same time. Deeply missed.
April 18, 2013
April 18, 2013
I have been blessed to have been a student of Dr. Whitney, the single greatest mentor I have known.Not only did he teach me to become a successful practitioner, but how to reach personal fulfillment in so many areas of life. I can still hear him teaching me to be "brilliant at the basics" & that "you don't eat an elephant in one meal".Our world is a better place because of you Dr. Whitney.
April 18, 2013
April 18, 2013
I spoke with John the morning that he died. He was my best friend, a teacher, a mentor. I've lost people in my life, including my parents. I think about him everyday. He is an angel in my eyes, a saint that will always live on as a spirit. He continues to speak to me, and he has forever changed my life, my wife, and now the things I talk about...with my kids. I loved him.
April 16, 2013
April 16, 2013
My wife and I were listening to Pachelbel Cannon in D, every time I hear that piece I always think of Dr. Whitney as he would play that at his practice management training seminars. I will always be grateful for all that he taught all those years ago in 1986. Our lives have been blessed as a result. I am sorry to hear that he passed. Death is not an end only a beginning! With much love !!
April 9, 2013
April 9, 2013
I went to the outdoor archery range the other day and though about my old friend, Dr John. There is a memorial out on the range, one of Dr John's arrows up in a tree." In memory of Dr John Whitney". sign hung on the arrow. We had great times together and I will miss his wisdom and humor.
Don Edwards
March 30, 2013
March 30, 2013
I was shocked & saddened to hear the news of Dr. Whitney's death on February 21st. My condolences to all of his family. Dr. Whitney taught me so much when I worked for him as. C.A. in the 70's. His philosophy about the power of positive thinking has gotten me through many trials in my life. For that I am forever grateful!
Rest in peace Dr. Whitney
March 20, 2013
March 20, 2013
While I never knew Dr. Whitney personally, I did study with his daughter Becky who always amazed me with her ease and competency as we went thru our studies, graduating in 1985. Sincerest sympathies and regrets on the loss of your father Becky.
Gabrielle Lacelle, DC
March 11, 2013
March 11, 2013
John was instrumental in helping me get started as a chiropractor in 1985. Many of his principles guide me even to this date. Thank you John and rest in peace knowing you left a huge positive footprint. My sincere condolences to John's family, especially my friend and classmate Becky.
March 10, 2013
March 10, 2013
John, and Lynn were instrumental in getting me to my first clinic position, and were the catalysts to an independent practice from day 1

John's nature, certainty, and great energy will indeed be missed.
March 10, 2013
March 10, 2013
I followed him down the slopes of Blue MountIan.He led me to dress upscale at places like Lou Myles and Harry Rosens. I would accompany him to the Hyatt Regency where he was in his element with all his celeberty friends. But most important he taught me the pure principles of Chiropractic and the power of the adjustment. Miss you Silver Fox.
March 8, 2013
March 8, 2013
Your words of wisdom and advice allowed my wife and I to start our practice. Without your help we would have floundered. You will be missed!
March 8, 2013
March 8, 2013
I am shocked and saddened to read this news today. I took the course Dr. Whitney offered to CMCC while in Toronto 1985-89 & I am grateful. Looking at the pictures, it has made wish I had gotten to know him a little better. Wishing strength to family and loved ones through this difficult time. R. Burton St. John's NL Canada
March 7, 2013
March 7, 2013
John was such an inspiration to me as a chiropractic student. His principles helped me to start in a successful chiropractic career, now 21 years. I can still hear the sound of his voice. A wonderful man with "real class".
March 6, 2013
March 6, 2013
Please accept our heartfelt condolences . John dedicated his life to advance chiropractic and we are grateful for his tremendous contribution. The profession has lost one of those rare individuals who always did things on a large scale. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with the family in this very difficult time. With deepest sympathies. James and Anna Carter. (Australia)
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Recent Tributes
February 21
February 21
Dear John,

You are missed. Muchly. 11 years today. Yep. Still counting.

How to stay sane and true to yourself in a crazy world is a topic worthy of a John discussion these days. I refer daily to the saying you had taped to your desk “That which is like unto itself, is drawn”. It along with your words in my head remind me that the law of attraction is at the root of everything I experience … every thought, every encounter, every bit of contrast and resistance and every juicy moment. What a gift you gave to so many by teaching this profoundly transformational concept and patiently, repeatedly encouraging us to get it right in our heads. It helps me most when choosing where to place my thoughts in chaotic, disturbing times.

If you were here now, we could excitedly discuss AI Whitney! In this last year artificial intelligence has evolved to a point where we could capture the essence of your wit, wisdom, even your unique style and create frighteningly fabulous virtual avatars of you. Dr. John on demand. I could sell that. I certainly would buy that!

Thank you for all you gave, that I could never buy- friendship, love, opportunity, status, education, clarity, guidance and an appreciation for really good nosh and conversation. Basically, the primer on living a good life. Here’s hoping the after-life party is a peachy one! Happy Freedom Day.
January 9
January 9
John, it's incredible how my popularity has skyrocketed. My mailbox is inundated daily with fan mail from Medicare and AARP, which I am sure you would have found as amusing as I find it impossible and overwhelming. The time has arrived and I owe an apology for my past insensitive remarks about your aging, as I've come to appreciate the invaluable tips you shared over the years. Stand up straight, move like a young person, keep your gaze forward, practice balance, and for gods sake, avoid cheap wine that stains your teeth.

Your wisdom continues to guide me, and I now deeply get what you taught me about a good laugh being balm for the soul. Recently, I stumbled upon a YouTube interview with Gladys McGarey, whom you introduced me to. She's now 102 and has a 10-year plan! Just like you, she exudes love and laughter effortlessly. I recognized her as a kindred spirit of yours.

Today would have been your 91st birthday. I'll raise a glass in a heartfelt toast to you- to your wisdom, humor, and unique perspectives that still guide and inspire me, even in your physical absence. You were a true connoisseur of life's delightful quirks, always capable of finding a pony in every pile of poo. John, your memory lives on as a testament to a life well-lived. Happy Birthday old man!
December 30, 2023
December 30, 2023
John was a friend and colleague of my father Dr. Barry Norton. I think about him often. He was the first person to show me the internet. And the first person, at 6 years old, to rely on me for directions to the liquor store. The only friend of my parents with a ponytail, he was eccentric and engaging. He was a good friend to my father, especially in his dying days.
Recent stories
March 19, 2014

From left to right: Cathy, Tom, Carol, Eileen, Mom, John, Dorothy, Jim

The Chef

March 5, 2013

So many people recollect John for his amazing insights, his intellect, his teachings and such.  I will always remember him for his salad dressing.

Let me explain. I am Lyn's sister Kathy. For the past 25 years I have had the greatest of privileges to call John not only a friend, but family. 

As with so many families, bonding begins in the kitchen.  It was the place where, with John, you learned so many things about his life, his beliefs, and his wonderful way of making you see the world a little different than before.  You also learned, very quickly, what a fantastic cook he was and how he loved to be in the kitchen preening over the stove.  There are so many funny and wonderful stories my family and I share of moments in the kitchen with John.

I don't recall the exact first time that I tasted "THE salad dressing" but I do know that once we experienced it, he was tasked with always making sure to make it when we were together.

Always the teacher, he was kind enough to show me how to make it but somehow, even though I always followed the directions, it never tasted quite as good. Maybe a secret ingredient was left out of what I was given or perhaps part of the flavor was imparted from the chef himself and the care in which he prepared it. I believe the later to be the truth. 

John lived life on his own terms and in doing so, held a mirror up to all who knew him that we have the power to choose any path that we want or can imagine for ourselves.  It doesn't matter how much money you have or how old you are, there is always another door to open and another path that you can go down and find new challenges and new passions waiting for you.

He has now simply opened a new door and taken a new path somewhere that we can't follow just yet but I have no doubt that our paths will cross again.

So till then John, I will continue my quest for the perfect salad dressing.

Paul 2.0

March 2, 2013

Almost 2 years ago I had a nearly fatal bout of bacterial meningitis and since then John would occassionally email to ask how "Paul 2.0 was recovering".  He was more than interested - he was intrigued.  He wanted details.....  :)  I haven't been a client for about 5 or 6 years but he still cared. A kind voice. 

I have several good memories of John but his recent interest is how I will remember him.  So kind.   

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