If I could talk to Leon just one more time, I would still never be able to convey to him just how much he has influenced me and how deeply he has touched my heart. When I was still wet behind the ears, Leon was the first CW operator that took an interest in helping me to achieve the confidence needed to get on the air and practice the art of code. Our daily skeds along with his constant patience and encouragement helped me overcome many obstacles; among them was learning to put down the pencil and just listening with my internal filters. Leon once told me that he loved ham radio and CW because he could "reach into the sky and pull out a friend." I'm honored that he chose me. His memory will live on in my heart always. Rest in peace my sweet friend.