Saying Goodbye to JP

As you know, JP passed away last week, and although we do not know the actual cause of his death yet, we do know he suffered from addiction.  His passing brings to a close a difficult chapter for all who loved him, and starts a new chapter for us all as we learn to miss him.

Unfortunately, as is often the case with those suffering from addiction, JP did not pass with resources available. Nor without debts or other obligations. Including the sorrowful responsibility of fulfilling his final wishes.

Resolving these has fallen to his family who loved him very much, particularly his Aunt Deb who loved him like a son and dragged him back countless times from the edge. But those efforts, as well as the recent passing of her husband have not left her with resources either.  And so, this ask falls to you...his friends.

Whether he was a friend to you, or strictly a coworker (a distinction he would make difficult to maintain)...he left an impression with his cheer, his charm, and optimism. See him here in a moment I know he was proud of, accepting the thanks of the 44th president of the United States:


Personally I'm having a hard time hanging on to that view of him in the context of this grief. But for the purposes of this effort I am trying, and I encourage all of you to try. Someday I hope to remember my friend as cheerful, charming, and optimistic. And when I do, I want to be able to say that I did what I could to see him off well.

I've set a goal that I hope we can hit, and maybe even surpass. One that would allow for some measure of relief for his family and any other debts we expect to find, seeing to JP's services, and making a contribution to a cause he favored.

Arrangements will be handled by his Aunt Debby & family, and any remaining funds will be donated in JP’s name to SMART Recovery , an organization dedicated to assisting those in recovery. Specifically these funds will be earmarked for the training of those in recovery who seek to become facilitators to others in recovery from addiction, something JP had wished for himself on his own journey.

For those who would like to attend the services, please fill out this contact form  and you will be contacted with specifics as soon as such details are available.

PS - Friends have started a photo stream  to share memories of JP through the years. I encourage you to check it out, to contribute, and to let good times once forgotten soften your heart.