One day I was checking out at Dollar General, and in walks Old Fool in person. I had never seen him in person, but I just knew it was him. I said hello and immediately he knew who I was as well. We chatted a bit and I insisted he come to our 4th of July party. And he did.
We kept up with each other's blogs and even though he disliked crowds, he did join us for a few parties and birthday celebrations. He checked in when my Dad was sick by calling several times. I gave him my Dad's bicycle after he passed because Old Fool had a thing for bikes. I have to say, I am so glad I baked him a cake for his last birthday. Because it was to be his last.
His final blog post left us all worried. He was in distress and something wasn't right. I have to wonder if he knew. I sent him an email asking if he was all right. I didn't get a response. And I knew.
I was shocked and saddened today to see an anonymous comment on his blog saying he had suffered a stroke and passed away.
Goodbye, Mr. Richard... aka Old Fool. Your witty and insightful comments will be missed. He was just as entertaining in person as he was on his blog.