From: Bill Rabkin

I mourn but I can't grieve -- he lived his life better and with more joy than anyone I've known, and even though there were periods in his life that must have been incredibly painful, he moved on and accepted all the blessings the world had to offer. I am so sorry that the state of this country keeps me from offering to come out for his memorial service -- although your birthday celebration was much better than any funeral could be. I will be there in spirit.