It’s really regretable that it took the demise of a well respected poster to really bring out the best in people (though there was certainly already a lot of good spirit on this board).
I would humbly like to call the attention of anyone who reads this to one of the most noble things to come out of this unfortunate situation. (This is not meant at a backhand slap to the many other kind things done here, but only to cite a friend.)
In this thread:
http://boards.straightdope.com/sdmb/showthread.php?threadid=28293
Diane said:
Diane, in my short time here, you have been one of a handful of individuals that has made me feel most welcome here. (There are MANY nice people I hasten to add, but there are a handful that have been especially kind to me–and who are now cited in my sig).
Because you were so kind to me, I wanted to make an extra effort to get to know you through your reading some of your past posts. In a way, I kind of got to know you above and beyond our e-mail exchanges. And so I know that what you did above was NOT easy for you. I would just like to say that you have my respect and admiration. I consider myself to be a pretty kind hearted person, but sometimes you have to just step back in admiration of someone doing something that you know you might not have been able to pull off.
There’s plenty of kind acts in the world. But it’s one thing to do a kindness that’s relatively easy for you to do. It’s yet another when there’s some risk involved. To shamelessly steal from one of Michi’s old sigs (guess I liked it too, Michi):
“Love given when it is inconvenient is the greatest love of all. Kindnesses that are shared at a high cost to oneself are the most dear.”
What a noble testament to both yourself and Wally. When my time comes, I should be most flattered if someone were able to retrieve some good from what I hope is perceived as an unfortunate event!
In our private e-mails, you’ve written with evident pride about your three children. I can certainly see where they got their good character from.
I am very proud to call you my friend.