A friend from church is in an early battle with cancer. So many wonderful snapshots of the man, his talents, his family are meandering through my mind this morning. 

When our church building was under construction, he was the driver for several choir members to a rehearsal site in Burnsville. He has a big bass voice, a hearty laugh, an endearing chuckle. Those trips were fun. When his bass was part of the choir, we had solid underpinnings.

One Sunday he rattled the rafters with “Old Man River,” almost literally bringing down the house. Other special musical moments were his playful duets with Beverly, our resident diva. Both are comfortable, talented performers, and they brought out the best in each other.

When we wanted recommendations of people who do odd jobs, we knew where to go for ideas. We were happy with the work done by his circle of specialists. With questions about opera, he was a source.

He and I are both savers, and I can identify with that trait and with the frustration of those who live with us. One never knows when something will be useful, if only we can locate it.

Cancer doesn’t discriminate. Attitude can affect treatment, make things easier. Lou’s many friends and his family will travel this road with him. He is in our hearts.