I have known my uncle from birth. He and Aunt Bee were some of my first words and they were some of the first aunts and uncles I was to know and love. My uncle was a learned and highly opinionated individual. He worked hard. He supported his family. He joined in family celebrations. I remember one day when he asked me what I was going to do when I retired. The question caught me off guard and after I regained my footing, it dawned on me that I had no plans, partially because I hadn't worked at any place thus far that offered any benefits. Those thoughts stayed with me for a very long time. On the other hand, my uncle spoke endlessly about his plans after retirement. I hope he was able to see all those plans through to fruition before his transition. At the funeral of his wife who died a few years ago, Uncle John professed that he would be joining her shortly. Some heard this as a morbid thought, but the reality, I believe, is that this was a further expression of his love for his wife. God bless you, Uncle John.