D and Ruth were friends of my parents so I saw him often growing up. One of my fondest memories as a little boy was watching my dad's softball games, which included D and all their buddies. Later, when playing high school baseball with Jim, I don't remember a game where D wasn't there in the stands. While you could tell he was a dad who loved and supported his sons, he also made a point of talking to and supporting every player on the team. We all appreciated him being there. Fast forward to a couple years ago, where we happened to be at the same golf outing, having not seen each other for over 30 years. Once he realized who I was, he made a point to come up to me, put his hand on my shoulder and offer his sincere condolences about hearing that my father died that year. Him taking the initiative to do that, as well as spend several minutes to share stories with me about my father meant the world to me. But, that was just the kind of guy I remember D being. My thoughts and prayers go out to Ruth, Ryan and the entire family. I can't help but have a little smile, though, thinking in true "Field of Dreams" fashion, that D and Jim are having a catch right now. Maybe they will find my dad and have a softball team formed by the time I get there.
Dean Robinson