By Jack Danchak
SULLIVAN COUNTY — December 28, 2001 – January 2001 started out with Jack and I celebrating the New Year at home decorated in Christmas splendor. At the end of the month we received a call from Boca Raton, Fla. that Jack’s good buddy, John D’Agata, had unexpectantly succumbed to a heart attack. It was a real shock as we were packed and ready to head south for a visit.
February: Jack turned the big 60. We had a surprise party for him on a very icy day. Old schoolmates, friends and family did venture out to help him celebrate. Brother David was having a good day after his chemo treatments and was there.
March: David finished his last chemo treatment and we drove down to Pompano Beach, Fla. so he could be home to rest and get well.
That was not meant to be, as shortly after arriving he was admitted to the Miami VA hospital for a new set of treatments as the cancer was attacking other parts of his body. On May 20 he succumbed to lymphoma cancer at age 57. Jack and I moved into the home at Hunter Lake to help our son Billy rent boats for the fishing season. We enjoyed living on the lake.
September: Kay turned 55 quietly.
October: After Columbus Day we packed our summer duds and moved home to Lakewood. We started projects to get our home back in shape.
November: The children came home for Thanksgiving which we celebrated at my mom’s who is well. I had a bad fall and slipped a disc which is pinching a nerve and I am in therapy at this time. The opening day of Pa. hunting season and I am in bed. Liane made a pot of chili. John’s girl, Lisa, made a pot of soup and Billy’s girl, Lisa, made a pot of stew. They did not starve even if I was not able to make the usual opening day turkey dinner.
Billy took a five point buck, Jack a spike and John filled a doe tag. Billy takes the meat and makes summer sausage and jerky to enjoy while ice fishing. Jack’s mom and David Jr. are both well and enjoying the Florida sunshine.
Our son John is living in Matawan, N.J. and is selling telephone services. Billy is living at the lake and won the 2001 Angler of the Year title of “Mr. Bass” again. He also had a black bear come to his livingroom window and watch the football game while proceeding to feast on sunflower seeds from his bird feeder.
Liane is busy in her beauty salon and being a mom to her boyfriend’s 11-year-old son, Jonathan. He makes Christmas for us having a youngster in the house.
Hope this finds you and your loved ones in good health at home and safe to enjoy the Holiday Season.
Happy 2002!