COUSIN DAN

Dan, I don't know where to begin. I first want to say that you were an amazing person. I remember you coming down to Portland every summer, which was always tons of fun. You were such a great family man and everybody loved being around you. I remember the time that me & one of my buddies went up to Seattle for a Mariners game. You dropped everything you had going to hang out and show us a good time. You even took us down to Safeco, dropped us off, and came to pick us up after the game. You didn't want us to drink and drive, and have to find parking. We ended up having a kick ass time, thanks to you. You were are private chauffeur that night, and that was just the kind of guy you were. Another great memory, and by far the best one, was the night you introduced me to my wife. We were out at Petes in Yakima, on a random Tuesday night. The comedian was from Portland, and was just clownin on Yakima. We found it so funny, as we both knew where he was coming from (living in the bigger cities and all). I bought some new red Iverson shoes prior to going out that night. I remember going to the bathroom, and all of a sudden the comedian just started calling me out. He said it looked like I was going F------ bowling with my red shoes. You just thought that was one of the funniest things ever. Our waitress, which is now my wife, worked with you in the past. You introduced me to her, and then we all went out to another place once she was off work. The next day we floated the Yakima river, and all I could say was thanks for introducing me to that fine looking girl last night. We ended up getting married 5 years later, thanks to you buddy. We're expecting a little boy in September, and you better believe that I'll tell him stories about my cousin Dan. I want you to know that all your family misses you tremendously. You had so many people that loved and adored you. I think you used to look up to me coming down to Portland when you were young, but I found my self looking up to you when I would see you in Seattle. We're having our wedding reception this weekend, and you will be there in spirit for sure, and still be the life of the party. Thanks for the good memories and being a good cousin/friend. I will always remember you and share your great qualities with my family and friends. You impacted everybody you met. I have no doubt that I'll see you again. I hope you can show me around up there when my time has come, just like you used to in Seattle. Take it easy up there Dan. Love ya bro, your cousin Erik