iSeries NEWS, the iSeries Network, and iSeries programmers and system administrators lost a good friend and extraordinary resource when Senior Technical Editor Gary Guthrie passed away on Thursday, March 13. Many of you have enjoyed his writings over the years, but you may have never known of his constant battles with his health and his courage and determination to beat the overwhelming odds that were always before him. Gary spent most of his life in a wheelchair, outlived the many predictions by doctors regarding how long he would live, and remained completely dedicated to hard work to provide for his children after he was gone.

I first met Gary shortly after he began writing for us in September 1995. The after-effects of a severe case of polio at age two had battered his body and left him physically thin. However, I quickly learned that this didn't get in his way. There were times that he had to allow others to help him. I recall carrying him, with the help of others, in his chair down the stairs several times, but I never recall thinking of Gary as a weak person. Gary was one of the strongest people I have known. Gary's strength came from many sources. Gary insisted that others view him as an equal and not see him as needy. He had a sense of pride that was admirable concerning his ability to take care of himself.

His strength also came from his hunger to learn as much as possible and contribute as much as possible. Gary had a great desire to devour technical knowledge. Even more, he loved to share that information with you. He enjoyed knowing that he made a difference by providing helpful and meaningful advice, tips, and knowledge to you all.

His strength came from his determination to provide for his children. Early in his life, Gary knew that his life would be shorter than most. With that in mind, he had a focus on working as hard as possible to save for the future financial security of his children. Having children of my own, I can fully appreciate his complete love for them and his desire to make sure their life would be supported. Gary spoke of his children often and willed himself to live through adversity for their good.

Gary represented so much strength, so much talent, and so much genuine care for his friends. I was fortunate to have Gary as a peer in business and as a friend. Gary was always willing to make time for friends and always concerned for the well-being of his friends. You, as readers, were friends in a remote way. He took great joy in writing to you. He enjoyed the limited opportunities he had to actually meet you. He found great satisfaction in his life while contributing part of himself to all of us.

We have lost a good man.

Wayne Madden