One of the saddest things I have ever seen was the look on Jack's face (my 10 year old son) when I told him the news of Bill's passing. Jack's first tournament was run by Bill and a short time later, Bill was coming to our home every Saturday to give Jack lessons at a time when no one else was available. As a result of Bill's instruction, Jack went on to win the Kindergarten National Championship. This was just the start of a very special relationship that had a monumentally positive impact on Jack's life.

Over the next several years, Bill continued to maintain his friendship with both of my children. He was like an uncle in the way that he always remembered their birthdays, provided them with thoughtful gifts (particularly books) and encouraged them in their pursuit of chess and anything else of educational value. In addition, he was incredibly generous. There were many times when he lavished large amounts of money, which he really did not have, to take his team to a national tournament or to buy a kid a USCF membership. He was also willing to give his time to teach chess, including to kids in the St. Louis public schools.

I know that some people only saw a side of Bill that was cranky and contentious. However, there was another side of Bill that was characterized by humor, generosity and respect. I know that my entire family joins me in passing on our condolences to Sandy and in saying that Bill will be missed very, very much.

Joe Regenbogen