On June 21, 2019, I found myself thinking of my dear friend from Reseda High, Greg Olmstead. I decided to search the internet for him to see how he was doing. I was so, so sad to see that one of my heroes has passed. I have always remembered how we first met. We were 14 years old, in Babe Ruth League. Greg was the opposing pitcher that day, and I was afraid to step into the batter’s box because he was dominant. I got lucky and got a base hit that drove in the winning run. After the game, I was in line at the snack shack for a post game feast. Greg came up to me and said, “Nice game Vitz. Let me get this.” He paid for my hot dog and coke! Greg Olmstead, the guy I feared, suddenly became a FRIEND that I admired - and have admired for over 50 years! At Reseda High, we carpooled to school. We hung out at each others homes. We shared tons of good times and I was always knew that Greg was a “class act”. I was impressed with the love he had for his family. His father and mother were amazing! Unfortunately, amidst the hassles of being a teenager, I never got to know all of his siblings, but I have a special place in my heart for Ted and Anita. When Ted was about 1 year old, on Christmas Day there was a knock on my front door. I opened the door and found Ted “gift wrapped” as if Greg was giving Ted to me for Christmas. That was hilarious! In my senior year at Reseda, I received a letter that I was accepted to Marquette University. The first thing I did was call Greg with the good news! I read the letter to him, “Dear Mr. Vitz, we are happy to announce that you have been accepted ………” When I finished, Greg said, “That’s great! When is he leaving?” I asked, “Who?” Greg said, “Your Pop.” I couldn’t stop laughing. Moments like those were endearing and typical of Greg’s humor. I ended up in the SF Bay Area and, as often happens, we lost touch with one another. The last time I saw Greg, in the 1990’s I think, I met him and Ted for lunch, in the Valley. I remember feeling glad that Greg was still Greg! He was humble and happy; confident and cool. Greg, and his beloved family, have long been in my prayers, and they always will be. Rest in Peace my great friend!