A great man died last week. Today would have been his 70th birthday and so, although it isn’t much, I write this tribute to him. My husband’s father, Jonathan Edward Ray jr., was a man who knew what was important in life and lived accordingly. He didn’t have much, but what he did have he gave away. He was one of the most selfless people I have ever known, always concerned for the needs and happiness of others. There were no strangers in his life because, within minutes of meeting one, he became a friend. One of my all-time favorite books is Mitch Albom’s tuesdays with Morrie. It is a book about life and what is important. This quote from the book defines Jon’s life perfectly. “Devote yourself to loving others, devote yourself to your community around you, and devote yourself to creating something that gives you purpose and meaning.” He did just that. He was the kind of man others would turn to with their problems because he could listen. He also knew a great deal about a great many topics. In his life he served in the Navy, sold insurance, studied aromatherapy, counseled veterans, ran at least 4 restaurants, brought the Montana State BBQ competition to his hometown and did many other things. But most important to him were his God and his family. And so he knew the ins and outs of life and could counsel well. He was also a man who was not afraid to change when he knew he was wrong. Yes, he made mistakes in life as we all do, but he also did what it took to overcome them. We can all learn a lot from his life and he will be dearly missed. Again, from tuesdays with Morrie, this is for you, Jon. “As long as we can love each other, and remember the feeling of love we had, we can die without ever really going away. All the love you created is still there. All the memories are still there. You live on – in the hearts of everyone you have touched and nurtured while you were here.” In Jon’s case, that was many, many hearts.