Although I met him a few times over the years, it was only this year that I actually began getting to know him in person. This was partly Jess's doing, and partly an effort on Rob's own part.
As a presence in this newsgroup -- well, as others have said, it's still hard to imagine soc.motss without him. And I realize as I write this that our electronic acquaintance had lasted nearly 7 years.
I liked his posts, and I liked him in person. Only two weeks ago I was describing him to FJ!! with every expectation the two would have a chance to meet, and that I would see him again. I returned from a month-long absence to the news that he was already in a coma. I think that I'm still stunned.
The best part of our acquaintance was our exchanges by mail. It's ironic -- and yet appropriate -- that when my friend Roger was dying this last February, Rob was the first to write and sympathize.
I want to thank those of you who've posted things about him, whether remembrances or yelps of grief -- and both are apt. Your words have been a help. Like so many other human associations, this group shows its best side when things go badly.
I'm tremendously sad. At least, I'm not alone in that.
