I help gather the clothes scattered about, place them all in a bin and head off the stage to take everything back to the wardrobe room.

These words resonate throughout the 15,000 seat arena and then the bagpipes start. I can hold back the tears no longer. The pain I feel for the loss of an incredibly dear friend, I can’t contain the pain – it must come out.

March 6 the terrible news came – my dear friend Brian aka “Dick” passed away from a sudden heart attack. Out of the blue - he was gone. Having only exchanged texts back and forth the other night, I can’t believe I won’t hear his voice again. I can’t deny I’ve lost someone so near and dear to my heart. The loss is irreplaceable. Reconnecting with friends who were also close to him has eased the pain and all of us deny he’s gone.

Dick was always happy, upbeat and for him anything was possible. If he was ever down, he stayed positive. His voice would always make you feel better. You could hear the smile in his voice and I couldn’t help but smile back. He is such an amazing person to have in your life. Great Father, amazing friend. I am so very grateful to have him in my life. He made a difference and will continue to do so.

Brian, you are loved by so many. You will forever live in our hearts and always bring about the best of memories. You’ve given so much that it will continue to give us strength when we are weak in thought by your absence.

Love you Dick