Well, that is indeed bad news. Met him over good food thrice. His advice on what to eat at Indian restaurants was gold. A man full of unique and amazing stories.
Placed himself in the midst of many of this era's most historic events. Then wrote about them with the style and panache all his own. Worked for Bob Guccione. Met Janis Joplin. Lived in Portugal for a spell. Outran the Paradise fire.
A remarkable series of life accomplishments. I'll always be a bit jealous when comparing all that glittering experience with the quotidian events I'm used to. On the other hand, quotidian can be good too. And now I know just what's best to order at the local Indian eatery.
So, thanks Gerard. My view on life is a little broader and brighter because of you.
Another wonderful person met and experienced through our blogs and the internet. Something wonderful indeed.
He is and will always be a great guy. One of the best.
Bad news indeed. I’ve been following Mr. Van Der Leun for quite a few years and have always found his writing insightful and brimming with a traditional American optimism. His article about filming the last day John and Yoko spent in Central Park was poignant and not over fawning of the Lennons. I will always be grateful for his mother’s cookie recipe (the holy cookie).
ReplyDeleteHis writing has always made me feel included and somehow part of, or inside, the story. When he writes about the various experiences growing up in Paradise, it strikes me like that’s how Mark Twain would have written them.
He’s in hospice now, so the sunset is nigh. God bless GVDL.
-Rob Muir
I envy that you were able to meet him. He is such a wonderful writer and American Digest was a daily stop for me. We all come and go, and somehow the world still manages after we've gone. But damn, the internet just won't be the same when he's gone.
ReplyDeleteazlibertarian
DRAT!
ReplyDeleteWell said and well done.
ReplyDeleteVery sad news. He's an unmet friend whose work I've followed for a few years; we only know one another through posts and email, but young Mr. Swanson put it very nicely,
ReplyDeleteAnd yes there is much to be sad about everywhere we look; I am so sorry to read about daily sad news but there is no escaping it, there never has been. All we can do is be kind to one another, defend ourselves and our loved ones from dangerous actions and concepts, and live our lives as best we can.
Blessings to Gerard; a better live awaits.
I've been in a deep blue funk since Jan 2 when the "friend" made us aware of what was going on. I wish the best for Gerard in all things and these moments will be on my mind for a long time.
ReplyDeleteI can only echo Azlib and Ghost. Gerard is among the best.
ReplyDelete-Snakepit
Literally hundreds of comments and well wishers have commented since the announcement was posted yesterday. And growing.
ReplyDeleteIt is a page well worth reading. If nothing else it shows that people with a strong belief in the love and the power of a merciful God are still around.
May God not need Gerard just yet...praying He heals this great man...for as long as the bell does not yet toll.
ReplyDeleteYour sentiments are exactly where I'm coming from, Paul. I'm not saying farewell to Gerard.
DeleteThe condolences towards dear Gerard are developing into an avalanche. This man touched, inspired and amused so many. That you guys met on occasion, Mr. Swanson, is terrific. This here post of yours might grow very lengthy, too. I hope your time on the interwebs is long and prosperous.
ReplyDeleteAs it is for all of us.
ReplyDeleteBear Claw
He'll go when the Master calls, and with grace.
ReplyDeleteWell that quite simply sucks.
ReplyDeleteThanks for passing it along, CW, unwished for though it is.
Advise - CBD Oil- one small drop under the tongue before bed. 2 folks (I personally know of) with terminal cancer - sent home & out of options - are now cancer free.. Neither believed it possible. Any, who now believe doctors /medical establishment know best should know better. There are certain types of cancer less receptive. I personally, would use chase down alternative medicines before laying down and giving up. Cancer sucks - but so does our medical establishment. It definitely won't hurt to try.
ReplyDeleteWe loved his writing and viewpoint on a vast number of subjects.
ReplyDeleteHe will be missed.
2023 isn't starting out well at all.
RIP.
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