Now, more than ever, I realise I’ve been so privileged and fortunate to have known Nelson as a true friend, for nearly all of my life, always a real pleasure to be with, especially after a long absence; always amusing. For more than 60 years I’ve been heartened to hear his laughter, see his smile and impish expression, and welcome his funnyisms and jokes even if I knew what was coming ! I have to admit that on occasions I may have fallen victim to his overly persuasive manner, often initiated by a characteristic stutter-like delay when starting a conversation to insist that I perform some silly task. Although of different temperament we were really good friends, evidence by me always remembering his birthday, a quite unusual achievement for me. After meeting up with Nelson and Christine only too infrequently in recent years, Liz and I were just so pleased that we met up last September to enjoy our last quality time together on a two week Baltic Sea cruise – with memories that will last forever. Happy (everlasting) memories ! From "Big" Al Smith