I know there have been many things written to eulogize Stan since his passing and I don't want to be tedious or redundant, but I wanted to share my own feelings about someone who was so misunderstood and yet, so loved.

Stan was an enigma, wrapped in a puzzle and shrouded by mystery. Almost childlike at times, he nevertheless could come up with the most profound yet simple things to say and write. Socially inept, perhaps, but he was also unceasingly pleasant and friendly, always saying something nice to others. I didn't care much for most of his writings, thinking them too simplistic for my tastes, yet he wrote some very touching and thoughtful chapters for my Home That Love Built universe, and I told him how much I liked them and thanked him for his contributions.

We never communicated directly, save for a couple of P.Ms when he wrote for my universe, but I watched as he commented on darned near every story posted and was usually the first to comment. Always cheerful, always positive, never ever critical. He found simple pleasure it seemed, in simply being a part of the Top Shelf family. He never took offense at some of the mean things others said about him and although we were never more than acquaintances, Stan impressed me with his attitude and forgiveness.

He was a rare human being, was Stan. One I doubt we have seen often nor, dare I say, we will see many of again. If, when it comes my turn to enter that field to be greeted by all my past furry friends, I am remembered down here with as much care and love, I shall count my life as having been well spent and, as I cross that Rainbow Bridge, I hope will be able to look back and say; " I guess I did okay. Farewell my dear friends. I shall await you on the other side. Now you must forgive me, for Kim, Bob, PIckle, Genni and many more are waiting for me to join them. On Roadblock and Fatcat, on Red, Mitzi, Gretchen and Tammy. On Baretta and Starsky junior. Forward Mabel and Smokey. I see George, "Mikey" ahead with open arms and that silly little grin on his face."

R.I.P. Stanman. I know you are in a much better place now. You will never be forgotten and always loved.

Catherine Linda Michel