Today I lost a brother

I hate days like today. It makes me not want to answer the telephone. Many can appreciate the type of call that I am talking about. It always seems to come when we least expect it and especially when we do not need the extra pain or agony. But these calls come and we can only hope for the strength and the courage to continue on our journey.

Another kid from Coady Street passed away today, and other than the loss of my brother, this one hits closest to home. Dukie was a little brother to all of the older kids on the street and his spirit was always too big for this earth. It really is no surprise then that his days here in the minor leagues were called short. He is now with the big team and it sucks for those left behind.

No more will we hear the mighty “BAHAHA” as he embarks on another inning, period or just plain foolishness. That toothy grin that graced my childhood impacted many. The energy always boiled over for good and the very good. You always wanted him on your team and on the odd occasion when you walked the batter’s box and he was the opposing catcher, he loved to tell you which part of the body this next pitch was going to hit.

He never knew the impact he had and he always had your back. I have seen him, laugh, I have seen him cry. I have watched him celebrate and I have shared his mourning. Man, he is going to be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to Rhonda, the girls, Veronica, Flipper, Geordy, Ethel and Cheryl. Too much for one family.

I know you are listening and you are probably having a chuckle. It won’t be the same without you and no one will ever fill your spot. We do not have a flashing sign but if we did, this is what it would read; “He once played in these fields and on these streets and rinks. He played with a love for all his teammates and he always wanted to make sure the spectators got value for their money. His game was unique and he was capable of finesse as well as the rough and tumble style. He played through injury and pain and put those around him first.” I am not talking about a sport, I am talking about Dukie’s life. We have lost a brother who will not be soon forgotten.