I met Gary and his family when I was a teenager. As it happened, a family schism between my father and his brother left us with few options to celebrate Christmas.
Gary's father and stepmother opened up the hospitality of their home to us and we spent many a splendid Christmas with the Haags. Gary was very young but I remember him as a kind,gentle spirit. I was thrilled to hear that he married a wonderful woman and had a solid career. One day after 9/11 I thought to myself--"Gary I hope your OK", and at that the light bulb above my head grew bright as the sun and and popped. I believe I got my answer.