Dear Pat,
I've been putting off sending this note because it's sad news. One of your pals is on his way to you. In fact, by now, he's got to be done with all his paperwork and chatting up God, you're probably talking about old times right now. Warren Bateman died July 15. He sure was tough and got through so many close calls but this time he didn't stay. He was funny and caring and checked up on me as often as he could. The last time I saw him he showed me the way he kept count of all his walks around the yard, a contraption he set up for each time he got back to the garage. It reminded me so much of your various inventions. He never stopped telling stories about you guys and all the great times and adventures you had together. The Batemans are and always will be an extension of our family. They've always included me in their family get togethers, making sure I was always invited, especially when I was the only Blymyer on the west coast. Guess that's what real friendship is all about, watching out for each other. Warren's funeral is September 1st in Carpinteria so we will all get together then. (1p Carpinteria Community Church)
I've also put this off because I've been working lots of hours and haven't made the time. Silly me, I thought working hard and doing my best would assure me my place in this world but it seems that's not true. Mom is disappointed by how people are treated in our business and easily cast away and you would be too. The man who took my job away was even telling me how wonderful you were and then turns around and tells someone else I'm not the right person for the job. Not that I was doing anything wrong, I just wasn't the right man for this position.
Next weekend I'm having a 50th birthday circus celebration, bringing back the big summer bbq. I think you would have liked to be here. All the family that can will be here along with many of the Batemans and of course lots of friends new and old.
Hope you and Warren have a good reunion and tell lets of good stories. Miss you and love you lots.
Xochi
