Monday, June 14, 2021
Condolences to the entire Darwin/Leaf family. I will take this opportunity after a week of reflecting and the vision of a strong, loving family imbedded in mind from last Monday. Apologize in advance of the following but it is actually for myself as well.
I wish to have been a close friend of Gary as I have often thought, this is who one wants to be associated with. Seems I missed out. But glad I was a appreciative acquaintance.
Gary would always take the time to offer a sincere hello and share a few minutes for stories when we would see each other through the years at Temple Sholom and occasional run in. Gary hearing of my wife Elisa and my long history with Monticello, NY, Gary would tell his Kutsher Hotel stories every so often. We loved happy memories Gary expressed. And from any foodie story I was able to see his appreciation for a good restaurant. Some years ago when my family and I were eating at a sidewalk table at a burger joint in Cranford, Gary and Jodye walked out of the restaurant DIMM SUM II, stopped by our table and took a few minutes to say hello. As they walked away, I remember stating to my wife Elisa, if Gary ate there then it must be OK. Have been patrons since.
This is simply stating those associated with Gary have trust in what ever Gary does or states. Gary, though physically gone is still a person of quality in what he performed, cared about and experienced. And this is a legacy and why he lives on.
To the entire family please remember the following as it is written on my parents headstone; 'to live in hearts we leave behind is not to die". Speak forever of Gary and tell the stories as if he were standing beside anyone of you.
