Gary Papa Tribute

Gary was my friend, when I lived in Philadelphia over 15 years ago. Over the years, I lost touch with him and Kathleen, but I thought of them often and fondly. Gary was sunny and full of love and life. He wasn't afraid to try new things. He was generous and open and made me laugh. I remember basking by his pool...going with him and his nephew to see "The Jungle Book"...talking with him about relationships...fantasizing about marrying my then boyfriend in his spectacular house (that had virtually no furniture in it, in my memory)...watching him play "Hamlet"...

I remember that he had invited me to the now-famous Duke-Kentucky game in 1992, knowing that I'd gone to Duke and was a fan. When I found out that he'd be broadcasting, and I'd be alone in the press box, I got shy and bowed out, opting to go to a lame one-man show at Plays and Players (I think) instead. Who knew Christian Laettner would sink that last shot making it arguably the best game ever?

God, I will miss him. I so regret having lost touch. My love and condolences go out to Kathleen and the boys.