Dear Marion,

 

It is with a heavy heart that I send this email to you. Dad passed away this past Monday with his family around him at Van Rensselaer nursing home in Troy, NY. He always had fond memories of his comrades from the 235th. Because of your website he was able to hook up with people over the past few years, some of whom he thought dead. Thanks for all of your hard work on behalf of the veterans of WWll.

 

Jack Thorpe Jr.

Jack Thorpe Sr would have been 99 this Christmas Eve. We extend our condolences to you and your family, Jack. I'm glad I got to play a part reuniting him with some of his "brothers". That makes me smile.

Here's his obit

"Because of your website he was able to hook up with people over the past few years, some of whom he thought dead."

That must make it all worth it. It's sad to see yet more of that generation slip away, but I am glad that they were able to catch up with some old friends before it was too late. Thanks for making that happen, Marion.

"4th Corps Esquire Band" - must have been a sight to see!

Ya, it does, it does, but most of the time it doesn't make it any easier. I find myself having to swing that fine line, knowing that there are so many pluses, but it's still hard to offset the loss. Every week I feel as though another little piece of my heart goes missing...

Hey I forgot to add a big thanks for your reply. Seems like me and you are about the only people left on the forum anymore, so I appreciate your ALL your replies...