Honoring Jim

Eric Lorberfeld wrote (friend of Jim's):

To know him is to love him.  I struggle to explain to my friends and family who don't know Jim just how special he is, how kind and gentle he is, how truly different he is than anybody I know.  When I describe him as the nicest guy in the world and I get the polite smile in return I think to myself – no, you just don't understand.  He is one of a kind.  20 years ago when I met Jim he was introduced to me as Mike's friend from home.  We, of the dysfunctional group known as the Colgate DKE's, have gotten to know Jim as much more than just Mike's friend – he has become an integral part of our group and our families too. 

Two summers ago, nothing made all of our kids (and Jim) happier than to allow them to break eggs over his head during one of the events in our annual kids Olympics at Bogie's Beach House on the Cape and this past summer Jim taught us all about the finer points of swimming watching Michael Phelps in the real Olympics.  On those rare occasions when Jim was not able to join us for a boys' weekend Upstate New York or a family weekend at the Cape, it just didn't feel complete without him and it saddens me to think of future gatherings without his uplifting presence. 

We used to joke that we never saw Jim in a bad mood but it was true.  Even when losing at the poker table, which was a common occurrence for Jim, he never got down on himself.  In fact, he would always maintain his self-deprecating demeanor and his great sense of humor.  None of it was an act - like always, his words and actions came right from his heart.  But clearly nothing was more important to Jim than Chris, Lauren and Dana.  In keeping with Jim's wishes, I hope you will all join me in celebrating his life.  I feel lucky to know Jim.  He has made me a better person.