While the world is fixated on the events unfolding in Ferguson after the grand jury decided not to indict Darren Wilson, Bob lost his fight to ALS. Of course with this horrible disease there is no other outcome. It is a death sentence he received a little over 5 years ago. I will admit I did not visit him and haven’t seen him since we went to Texas Roadhouse for dinner. That was probably 2 years ago. Or maybe the last time I seen him was when his daughter’s apartment burned. I was selfish and didn’t go because I couldn’t stand to see his body deteriorate I tried to be supportive of Laura and let her vent and talk in any way she needed. But I did not call her or text her because I didn’t want to bother her and be intrusive. You see this is such an awful thing and it is hard to know what to do.

Bob shared a birthday with my nephew Andrew who passed away at six hours old. I can find comfort in that maybe those two have already met and are sharing communion in Heaven. I also find comfort in knowing that Bob is no longer suffering. He can breathe, eat, move, play and take photos again. He loved photography and was starting up his own photography business when this all started. Maybe we don’t eat it heaven but if we do I hope he is having a seven course meal!

The hard part is for those left behind. His wife Laura, his two boys and his two daughters and every single other person that met Bob. Yes one day they will be reunited in Heaven but for those of us here on earth it will seem like a lifetime while I imagine in Heaven its in a flash. So Bob is the lucky one. He’s now living pain-free while the rest of us are sad and will miss him terribly. Although I am sad he has went to be with Jesus, I am happy his suffering has ended.

May peace be with his family as they make arrangements for his funeral and say their good-byes. I will miss you Bob Stehlin, more than you will ever know!

Mole moral:Always be kind to one another, it could be your last opportunity!