Friday, October 23, 2020
You never know what you’re gonna get with a new neighbor.
I can vaguely remember thirty-some years ago my grandparents telling me the cottage next door to theirs on Keuka Lake had sold. I can’t say I remember vividly the first time I met Merle, but it doesn’t matter because that first time was quickly eclipsed by the hundreds of times that would follow. Thanks to Merle’s friendly and generous spirit, I was privileged to share his family over the summers at the lake, and watch as significant others became spouses, and as Merle and Jeannie became grandparents. I’ll never outgrow the memories of swimming the lake with Terri and Kathy, attending summer winery concerts, endless political and philosophical conversations under the stars, or solving Merle’s mystery stories asking only yes/no questions.
Merle was a student of life, and you need look no further than his beautiful family to know that he’s pretty much “blown the curve to hell” for the rest of us still taking the course. But, if he taught me anything, it’s never to shy away from a challenge, no matter how daunting. Those of us left behind may have “outlived” him by the calendar, but now it’s on us to out-LIVE him. I can think of no better way to honor him.
Bill Tallman
Miami Springs, FL
