"Perhaps one has to be very old before one learns to be amused rather that shocked." (Pearl Buck)

     Today was the day of Irv Forman's funeral.  I would say there were about 200 people in the chapel.  When the speeches were over, we drove with a police escort to the cemetery where Irv was "buried" in a wall.  Of course, he was my very good friend and neighbor for 60 years and it's tough to lose someone like that from my life.  Irv's children and mine grew up and went to school together in East Meadow, NY.  I saw Merrill and Robin again, Irv's kids, after a very long time.  Of the four families whose kids grew up and finally left an empty nest, it was time to retire after a lifetime of work. So, Eric, Irv, Murray and I all moved to Florida and still continued to socialize.  Now all are gone except me, and I don't expect to leave anytime soon.  But it is moments like this that defines life as fragile as it is.  So as one grows old, seeking joy is of the highest prerogative.

 

     As I heard two of the children's talks about their father, they succeeded in showing that Irv led a very full life, first serving in the Navy, then a policeman for 20 years and then a gym teacher for another ten.  But by no means did their talks only dwell on Irv's working life; they told about his character and love for his family.  All this, led me to review what I accomplished in my own life.  In doing so, I came to the conclusion that I have led a most remarkable and extraordinary life--one that, perhaps, has been like no other because of its multi-tasked variety.  I needn't go on to recount the details.  I'll leave that to my children and my wife--and hopefully a former student or two to reveal it to those who don't know about it at my own funeral.  And please--no gifts nor lengthy applause.