My friend of thirty-plus years, libertarian activist, science fiction author, and lifelong gunsmith L. Neil Smith passed away two days ago. We ‘met’ on his Lever Action BBS, corresponded frequently, worked together for years on The Libertarian Enterprise, and remained close friends despite never actually having laid eyes on each other. I admired him for his principles, his talent, and his cheerfully curmudgeonly way. We hated all the same people, loved many of the same things, and shared a lot of kindred thoughts. His loss is irreparable for me. My thoughts and prayers (yes, Neil, in spite of your principled atheism!) go out to his wife Cathy and daughter Rylla.
I’ll see you further on down the road, old friend.