Like some others on here I was fortunate enough to see Dave and his daughters a few weeks ago playing bball. All through high-school and the years following I could never block that dang "behind his head, baseline jumper" which I think he missed twice in the last 20 years. The other night I actually got a piece of that dang jumper (I think it still went in) but couldn't actually believe I finally touched the ball coming out of Dave's hand from 3 ft behind and above his head. Looking back, the only reason I think I finally got a piece of that ball was because Jim Dildine had been guarding him before me. I think Dave had grown accustomed to only have to shoot over somebody 4'2".
Dave was a great friend and would do anything you asked and never expected anything in return. About 6-7 years ago I remember Dave spent about 3 hours under my car removing my catalytic converter to help me gain an extra 3hp. This was possibly the worst job in the world and all I did was mention to Dave I wanted to remove it and there he was with his tools that afternoon doing all the work. Just like I'm sure he was that Saturday morning when his help was needed at the service project he was headed to.
I remember thinking how much I had missed Dave over the years when I saw him playing ball that night and spoke with him afterwords. He was hilarious as always, self deprecating about the little spare tire he'd developed over the years and everyone kept commenting on how adorable, well behaved and good natured his daughters were.
My regret is that I hadn't made more of an effort to stay in touch with my good friend over the years.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
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3 comments:
Dave's basketball game was like a good wine...it gets better with age. I remember playing him constantly in my driveway growing up and it was my goal in life to not let him beat me in 1 on 1. We had some pretty intense games but I always came out on top. Like the fine wine, I can guarantee that he would have kicked my butt if we would have played now. His shot was so irritating because no matter how close you were to blocking his shot, he would just cock it back a bit more so you couldn't check it. Mr. mid-range was his name.
Yeah, pretty sure the only reason I finally got a piece of that thing was because Jimmy was guarding him first so Dave was only used to shooting over somebody 4'2"
I too am greatful for the chance we got to play ball with Dave that one last time and that he brought those 3 beautiful girls with him. You could just tell what a great father Dave was and how much those girls looked up to and loved him.
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