Peter John Macomber was my son-in-law for 25 years, and was hands down, probably the funniest guy I ever knew. He was so quick witted that you missed half of it because it was always coming at you so fast, yet in an almost subtle way.

He was also probably one of the most creative people I ever knew. He had so many talents and when he chose to use them, he shined. He never seemed to quite follow through on any one thing though, which was sad. Like many of us, we just do not ever really reach for the stars, willing to settle for our little corner of the world where we sit and dream, only gazing upward at that elusive stellar goal.

Some of my favorite memories were game nights. Pete had a wide variety of voices and accents he used a lot and his three children picked up on those quickly. Add all the humor to those voices, and the frequent game nights were hilarious.

PJ was also a great cook and loved catering to others tastes and desires. NO ONE will ever make spaghetti sauce as good as his. He truly did simmer it all day. It was a masterpiece!

Whether Pete was making a movie, writing a book, creating fantastical "critters" for his next project, or putting together plans for something new and innovative, he was always happy to share what was happening. And he always asked how things were in my life. He actually cared about others.

Pete was a spiritual man too, something that meant a lot to me. God and prayer were important to him and he was not ashamed to show his love of God.

Peter and I shared a November 12th birthday, along with serial killer Charles Manson and Princess Grace of Monaco.We never failed to wonder how Charlie was celebrating his birthday behind bars.

It is interesting how when you are in the midst of life with people—family, friends, neighbors—you never think of that ending. It seems as if certainly after 25 years, life will just go on and on the same way. We never think of an end to it. Certainly, we never think of this sort of an end to it.

Peter died far too young at 54. He left his children still in their 20s. He left his mother, Ruth, to mourn the death of her youngest son, and Paul, the death of his brother. He left a grandson he will never get to watch grow up.

As is the case with all who leave us, I know the world is diminished a bit by your passing. Those of us who knew you will not soon forget you. You left a lasting impression on us. Although I had not seen you the past couple of years, I will miss you, my birthday buddy. May you rest in peace.