Saturday, October 7, 2017
I write to express my deepest sympathy to Connie and all of Jere's family. Although I was saddened to learn of Jere's passing, I was immediately flooded with a plethora of memories of the deeply spiritual and intellectual history we shared, in a myriad of conversations and emails, and fondly remembered his sharp analytical thinking and passion for the truth. We also shared an abiding interest in writing and having our work published in a variety of newspapers, understanding that advancing the virtues of freedom in a civil society was a laudable goal, regardless of the many challenges our great Republic faces today. On the religious front, we loved our Catholic faith and I know in recent years he studied Scripture in greater detail, as well as the lives of the Saints in the early Church. On a more social level, when he and Connie lived in Divide we met several times to shoot in the woods. Those were pleasant and relaxing times together, and as he was a retired law enforcement officer he kindly offered guidance on how to improve my accuracy. When my wife Nancy and I joined St. Mary's Cathedral many years ago he was stilling singing in their choir. Despite the fact that he was but one of many singers his deep, rich voice filled the church with mellifluous, spiritual tones that perfectly complemented the Mass. Finally, every time we met and shook hands I was again reminded of his iron handshake, bright smile, and warm eyes. Although he will be deeply missed, I know his soul is singing praises to our Lord in heaven. Godspeed Jere.
(719) 207-8855
