Been digesting this news with sadness for a few days, and with more than a few tears. My heart feels genuinely heavy. I haven't been as active lately, but BID was always a close friend here and someone i enjoyed chatting with, learning from, BS'ing with... Truthfully, I am still in shock a bit.
His personality was larger than life, and it came through loud and clear in his posts and interactions here. I can think of few people who've made the impact on the community here that he has, and the friendships. A class act, kind man, helluva good grower, breeder and a real loss for our community and the world at large.
Spiffy, I can't begin to imagine how tough this has been for you. Please know my thoughts are with you, and that I and others join you in missing the Doode. While it may seem like little consolation right now, rest assured he will live on in the impact he's made on others through his generous spirit, gregarious nature and legacy of beautiful plants and the many seeds being planted in his honor - some of which that exist only thanks to his own labors of love.
old friend. You are sure missed. Love you buddy!