Rough Mornings

This morning, I received a phone call that I really just wasn't ready for. Gary Nelson, a good friend and mentor of mine, was found dead this morning in Shilito Park in Lexington, KY. Gary was struggling the last few months with respiratory issues, and those struggles no longer bother him. Very few people come across your path that truly exemplify the life that God has set forth for us. That was Gary. He was a passionate man; passionate for his family, passionate for his music, passionate for his church, and, most importantly, passionate for his God.

I've known Gary for years, but it was only in the past year that we got the chance to really get to know each other. In the past few years, I've gotten more and more involved with recording music, and that's how Gary and I got connected. Gary was asked to try to digitally record the services at his church, Gardenside Christian Church, and asked if I could help him out. For the next several months, Gary and I spent almost every Tuesday afternoon together. It's not often that two guys separated by almost 30 years get the chance to really be good friends, but that's exactly what I consider Gary; one of my close friends. Gary even played his saxophone at my father's memorial service. He and dad used to sing for adult events at Blue Grass Christian Camp.

I remember going out to eat with Gary, and it seemed like everyone in the city of Lexington knew him. We couldn't go five minutes in

our conversation without somebody walking up and getting a hug, or just wanting to say hello to Gary. He's definitely made his mark in the world that he lived. No one can ever deny the live that were impacted by such an amazing man.

Now my heart goes out to his wife, Margie, his children and grandchildren, Gardenside Christian Church and all the others like myself who are going to truly miss Gary, his infectious smile, and the amazing music that he has created over the years. Heaven really got a good one today. Now, maybe he and dad can sing some of their duets for Christ and all the saints. Rest in peace friend.

JK <><