In Memory Of Bruce Friedman--January 21, 1948-September 24, 2018!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                             My beloved, David, knew Bruce for thirty eight years; it was my privilege to know him only for eight.  I can tell you, like me, he was opinionated and impassioned.  And he put himself into the socio-political fray, rallying for LGBT causes, helping out at the Queens LGBT Community Center.  As a former Queens resident, myself, when I did not know Bruce, and felt the borough did not even acknowledge the existence of gays and lesbians, now I can say Bruce did more to undo that misconception than anyone I know.  Or knew.

                             He had an outrageous sense of humor, which is why I always said, "Bruce, you are a legend!"  He LOVED din sum.  Thanks to him, I ate more din sum in my life than I probably ever would have!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                              As David said, from diagnosis to the end, not one word of complaint!  He died from complications after a three year battle with leukemia.

                             David and I visited Bruce a week ago Thursday, and, while he did not look good, he knew us, and because of his strong constitution, I thought his passing would take longer.  I was readying myself for October, or November.  But late September???????????

                              His legend will live on.  Anyone who met Bruce would never forget him.

                              I certainly won't. And, though I am Catholic, when it is my time, I expect to cross over, and see and hear Bruce say to me, "Good Shabbos."

                               Rest In Peace, Bruce.  You are missed, but remembered, by so many who loved you!!!!!!!!!!