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El Jordan's avatar

You’ve perfectly captured the deep sorrow brought by the death of a dear and significant friend of your youth and the loss of an adult relationship that brought you joy. I hope sharing this poignant story of how beautifully your lives were intertwined will help you heal.

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Brent Hartinger's avatar

Thank you, El.

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Alicia's avatar

So sorry for your loss. What a special relationship you shared.

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Brent Hartinger's avatar

Thank you. I was extremely lucky.

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Deb Silbar's avatar

This quote really hit me hard “Why didn’t we spend more time together these last few years?” I have a close friend living with terminal cancer. I’m seeing her next month but now I’m going to plan a trip to see her again and keep planning.

May Laura’s memory be a blessing.

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Brent Hartinger's avatar

When I was visiting Laura, I was determined that we try to make some new memories, not just revisit the past or "say goodbye." I don't know if I succeeded entirely, but I think we kind of did.

Thank you for the kind words.

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Kevin Carlin's avatar

What a beautiful tribute. I was also lucky to have a wonderful girl friend who accepted and loved me despite being “in love” with me, when I told her back in 1976 that I had sex with a guy in Atlantic City. We lived in Philly. She laughed and jokingly said: “well this is the year of the bi-centennial!” We remained friends for years until she allegedly took her own life while living in Seattle. Ironically and cruelly, I may have been the last person she called that night and left a voicemail asking me to call her, but I had been out late that Saturday night “clubbing,” and didn’t have a chance to return her call before I received a call from her daughter late Sunday morning telling me the sad news. That was many years ago, but I think of her almost every day and smile when I remember the crazy things we did together and how much joy she gave me. I know you will never forget your dear friend and will always cherish the joy she gave you. RIP

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Brent Hartinger's avatar

oh my! That is terribly sad, I'm so sorry. But yes, memories are special. It's something at least.

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Sierra Tango's avatar

Beautifully written. What an a wonderful tribute to an exceptional friend.

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Brent Hartinger's avatar

Thank you.

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Elizabeth Marro's avatar

I know neither of you but reading this left me sad and joyful both. So so sad for your loss, but so so glad you had each other. You are right: life sucks. But sometimes it really is magic.

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Brent Hartinger's avatar

I appreciate your saying that, I really do.

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Susan Herzog's avatar

Brent, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your friend. What a loving tribute. I do remember Laura from college, though I did not know her well. Images that come to mind include her long dark hair, being very smart and articulate, and being engaged in conversation (probably with you)!! I will think of you two rolling down that hill when I see it in Spokane. I'm guessing once she is settled in the next phase, you will receive a sign, and I look forward to reading about that.

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Brent Hartinger's avatar

haha yes, I remember us all hanging out a bit. That time seems so distant now, doesn't it? But golden in many ways.

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Ann Panda's avatar

Oh wow, what a wonderful woman and a fantastic friendship. I'm so sorry for your loss.

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Brent Hartinger's avatar

Thank you.

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Cathe's avatar

So sorry for your loss, what a friendship and relationship, she treasured you and you adored her ♥️once in a lifetime friends are so special.

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Brent Hartinger's avatar

This is so true. Thanks, Cathe.

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Susan's avatar

Such a beautiful tribute. You’ve conjured Laura with your words and memories, and you can be assured that she’ll always be nearby, at least in that way.

Wild applause for you both. ❤️

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Brent Hartinger's avatar

Haha, thank you. I'll take the applause.

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Michelle Renee Lutke's avatar

My heart hurts for you. Please don’t feel guilty for not spending more time together… she KNEW she was loved! Hope all the great memories help you ride the waves as they hit you. 😘😎

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Brent Hartinger's avatar

Thanks you, that's nice of you to say...

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Karen Borofski's avatar

Brent, what a beautiful tribute to your forever friend—thank you for sharing ❤️❤️

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Brent Hartinger's avatar

Thank you, Karen.

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Janet's avatar

What lovely memories. Laura is always with you in your thoughts, and reverence of beauty and the silly, and that is worth celebrating and holding dear.

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Brent Hartinger's avatar

Thank you, very true.

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Leigh Brelsford's avatar

Sorry for your loss

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Brent Hartinger's avatar

Thank you.

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Ruth Stroud's avatar

I read this for the second time and it made me cry again. It's such a beautiful tribute to the kind of rare friend that few people are lucky enough to find in the first place, never mind to keep for 42 years! I do hope you meet in eternity and roll down that grassy hill together once more.

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Brent Hartinger's avatar

Aw, thank you, Ruth. Great to meet you last week.

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Danielle's avatar

Laura sounds like a rather excellent human. Thank you for the beautiful reminder to spend more time with my people.

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Brent Hartinger's avatar

Indeed! Never the wrong choice.

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