I was saddened to learn of the passing of my colleague and friend, Rick. When I began my teaching career, it was required to take an intensive course of several weeks'duration in oral French, being offered at that time in Compton, Quebec. Rick and I were roommates. He was an interesting guy and we readily became fast friends that summer. Sadly, when the course ended, we said our good-byes and returned to our respective homes. This was, of course, long before social media made its appearance, so it wasn't expected that we would ever meet again. However, a few years later, marriage brought me to Kitchener-Waterloo. At that very first orientation meeting, I walked into a room of teachers, not expecting to know a soul. I was astounded to be greeted by Rick when I entered. It was like we had never been apart. Our friendship continued unabatedfor many years, including the times I would call him about a trip I was taking to Italy, He was, as ever, his usual helpful self on every occasion. I will remember him fondly as a skilled teacher but, equally important, as a truly wonderful friend.