My Story for Vince

August 21, 2011 | James Railing

Most of my memories of Vince were when he was a teenager, hanging with Brad, Doug, Roach, and the gang. We had a snowball stand, so everyone in the neighborhood would come for our snowballs. Since me and my friends were five or more years younger we would get chased with water balloons and snowball fights or spinning tops in the hair. And of course the Japanese Jaw buster. ; ) Sounds like a lot of fun, huh??? Those were the days before video games, so we kept ourselves plenty busy. Of course, the head Master,  “Prince,” came over to the house for treats everyday as part of his treat route.

 Vince and Tim were like family to us, hanging out in the basement in the sin bin and eating plenty of my Mother’s home cooking. ; ). We had a bathroom off the kitchen and as I was doing a Number Two one day, I can still hear Vince saying to everyone, "Who the hell died?" I came out and Vince said, "Are you okay, man, Whewwwwwww".

How in the world could I forget those days and Vince? He will forever live with us. My last memory of him was seeing him drive by in his Smart car on West Franklin Street around July 4th. I remember sending Julie a message asking her if he drove a Smart Car, just to make sure it was him. I'm so glad he lived such a full life, although he was taken much too soon.

I have followed Vince's success over the years and although I have not seen him since the high school years it would have seemed like yesterday if I would have seen him again. I'm sure he had to be very proud, as well as his family. It was great to see Julie's and Tim's pictures of the July 4th picnic. What a treasure they are. R.I.P. Vince, and God Bless him and his family and friends.

Love,

James Railing