This has been a sad week for me. I have lost two friends. Both had great senses of humour and were successful in their fields.

David Abbott and I first met decades ago when he was hosting a talk show on CKNW. I would be with him on the odd occasion over the years but our friendship grew in the past 10 years. We rode together in the annual St.Patrick’s Day Parade… in a green convertible of course!

He was always in attendance at our radio professionals get-togethers, driving up in his electric scooter. David always invited me to the fundraiser created by his wife Diane for the YWCA Crabtree Corner Women. Dave always acted as emcee and would invite me to auction off a prize during the event. Five years ago we celebrated our 70th birthdays at the Performing Arts Building. We were hoping to celebrate our 75th in the same building but it was not meant to be.

A memorial service will be held for Dave at the PAL Theatre, 581 Cardero, Vancouver at 2pm Friday, January 6.

Dave was a broadcaster, writer, traveller, teacher, and an outstanding athlete and entrepreneur. He always believed in doing something for his fellow man. I will always remember him for his quick Irish wit and his friendship. Goodbye old boy. I miss you.

I could not get over the fact that my friend had died when I was hit with a double whammy. My friend Pat Anderson died suddenly and unexpectedly two days later. Pat was also an outstanding athlete, having proven himself in rugby. He also coached others in the sport. He was a successful businessman with Pat Anderson Insurance Agencies.

We used to enjoy dining out at Nick’s Spaghetti House and laughing away the noon hour. It was a place where we both felt the need for comfort food and we were never disappointed.

The thing I most admired about Pat was his honesty, placing great importance to values in life and truth plus hard work. You could not help but enjoy your time with Pat Anderson on any given day. He was always optimistic. I have been a customer and friend for decades and it won’t be the same without his big heart and big smile. Farewell old friend.