It’s my Uncle Bill’s birthday…he’s gone now…passed away many years ago much too soon but his persona has stayed with me and will for many years to come.  He was athletic, warm and very handsome. Try to imagine a boy who was the perfect son, brother, uncle and friend all rolled into one….legend has it that he was mischievous too.  Seems that one day, Bill, age 15 and his best friend,  Gail Massart asked my Mom if they could take me for a walk in my baby carriage.  She was busy in the kitchen that had a window that looked out on Fentzel Alley which ran up to 10^th Avenue so she agreed.  It was a bit steep.  She was doing the dishes when she looked up and saw me in my carriage barreling down the alley.  Not to worry, pal, Gail was standing at the end of the alley to catch me.   I was about 3 and I thought this was great fun.  Needless to say,  my Mom didn’t agree but for years we laughed about “the trip”. 

Whenever I would come home, Bill always the first to drop by to see me.  Each time, I promised myself I would call him as soon as I arrived but he always beat me to it.  He made me feel so special.   He had the great fortune to marry the girl of his dreams, Betty Jane Bouchet and had two wonderful children, Bill Jr and Marcia. 

Uncle  Bill…thanks  for all that you did for all of us and for being such an inspiration…you were truly one of the good guys!