From: Tony
To: Bob Biondolillo
Sent: Wednesday, March 21, 2012 1:09 AM
Subject: Re: Friendship

I was talking about our 40 year friendship in a meeting the other morning.  I told them you were a little bit older than me, and it seemed like you were always heading off into uncharted territory and then reporting back.  Nam, motorcycles, crazy drugs, crazier women, and all of it with a sense of humor that made it all seem natural.  But, through it all, there was so much more.  You always looked out for me.  The real insurance I had was your concern, not the policy.  I watched you stand tall while your brother buckled, and I watched you find a way when you could have broken down

One of my favorite stories was when you headed out for milk one Thanksgiving – and never came back.  And I remember the night TM’s girlfriend came over and you pegged her as crazy in 10 seconds.  And while I’m still laughing about you barking at Frank’s date at Cole’s, I can’t help but still worry [and laugh] about when you told me you ended up down south hanging out with she-males.

And wasn’t that your buddy’s kid sister-in-law?  And wasn’t that you saving my ass after the fire in ’01?  And isn’t that what friendship is all about?

You are my friend.  And the best advice you ever gave me was 15 years ago when I was complaining about how Artie messed up the business, how I got screwed, and how bad things were.  And you told me to stop whining – that I had it made – and that no one was ever going to feel sorry for Tony Ragusa.  You were right, and, thankfully, I snapped out of it.

Well, no one is ever going to feel bad for you, either [at least not as long as I’m around to remind them of all that you’ve done, all that you’ve lived, and all that you meant to so many, especially me].

If you’re up to it at all, come down and visit me in Florida.  It’s a great place to relax.  If not, I’ll be back after Memorial Day and we’ll get together.  Rest easy.

_______________________________________________

From: Bob
To: Tony
Sent: March 20, 2012
Subject: Friendship

One of the hardest things for me to do at this time is express myself, especially to a long, old, loyal, and dear friend.  I have been avoiding this, for it is one on the hardest notes I have had to write.

There are very few friends that I can count on one hand that have stood by me through all of my nonsense.  Told me yes when it was needed and no when it was need more.  I am more grateful for the no’s than you know.

It’s hard not to think about the times on Catherine with the kids running around.  Happy times.  Times I will remember and cherish.  Although we did not party together or really talk like we use to a long time ago, I always felt a closeness to you as part of your life and business.  Felt like it was part mine, in my heart.

It’s funny what it takes to make you appreciate what and who is important.  You are one of those rare and unique individuals who has played a much larger part in my life than I’m sure you realize.  I say a prayer every morning, it’s very simple, “Thank You,” you are part of that thank you.

Your Friend,
Bob