It had to be either 1984 - 85, I was in a music studio waiting in the lobby to go into my room. A couple of my friends walked in. Among them was a young man that stood out like a beaming monument. A young man that I had never met before yet he opened his arms, hugged me, and gave me that beautiful Rick Carl smile that we've all grown accustomed to over these years. Rick treated me like he knew me forever. Although he was intimidating with his personality and size, to me, I found him a sweet lovable big bear. Right there and then, our 32 year friendship began. I could probably write for days about all the wonderful and terrible things we've done together, but I will point out only a few of the glorious memories that Rick and I shared. Rick was with me for each of my 3 children's births. My family loved him so very much especially my mom and his "little buddy" my daughter Gennalina. As many of you know, or don't know, we created the band Unloved and played together for years along with our other brother Donald. Even though Rick was involved in many projects, he still devoted the time to Don and I. We made magic together. spiritually and musically I've gone to places with Rick and Don that no one else will ever know. Even when we just jammed for fun, it was a special event...because Rick was there. We spent many nights partying drinking watching movies watching our beloved New York Jets, discussing our martial art backgrounds, walking in Juniper Park together....my wife, my children, Rick, and the one and only Magnus. Rick would bike over to my place weekly and we'd watch our flicks, debating over whether they were good or bad. You all know Rick won those debates! We went deep into conversations about our lives and where we were going...it didn't matter ...as long as we were together. I didn't get out much with Rick and his bar friends, I guess we enjoyed that feeling of home. Rick was always welcome in our home. I know Rick loved that feeling of a normal home life. If I can pinpoint one specific time in our friendship to encapsulate what an incredible human being Rick was, it would have to be when my mother passed away several years ago. It wasn't any of my family members, it wasn't any of my many friends, it was one special friend, it was Rick who stood by my side every second of the day even after my mother was gone. We sat in my living room days after, many bottles of wine after, hugging each other, crying, and reflecting back on our lives together...we knew what we meant to each other. Not all the superficial things that are all around us every day, we had true feelings and a heart filled friendship that is so rare to come by. Rick Carl IS my friend, not was... he is the meaning of 'friend' he will always be my brother. I will always have his smile etched in my mind and I will always feel that big Rick hug that I always received when we met up and when we left off. I will sob every time I see a photo of him.., I will glorify his life whenever someone speaks about him...It is an honor to be your friend Rick. Until we see each other again my brother.....I can't wait for my big hug and your smile. Rick I love you so much....Chris