GEORGE CARLIN...The Loss of a Legend...RIP

The world lost an icon...George Carlin. There will be less laughter in times when we need to try and laugh more.

I had the privilege and honor of meeting Mr. Carlin when I lived in Los Angeles and it is a memory I will treasure.

Many of you know that I worked for a retail establishment that served many celebs...some merely legends in their own minds, but some bona fide celebrities. George Carlin was a bona fide star...and a gentleman behind that gruff exterior.

One day, I got a phone call...no name was needed as I recognized the voice at hello. It was George Carlin saying he had bought a microwave and it didn't work. He wanted to exchange it. No problem I said. He then said that he didn't want a fuss or hubbub around him. He wanted to get in and out quickly and un-noticed. I assured him it would be smooth and painless! He only needed to ask for me and it would be done. I looked up his purchase and had a new microwave waiting at the desk so he would only have to walk in, drop off the defective one and grab the new one and be on his way.

About 45 minutes later, I hear a hand slam on the counter and the unmistakenable voice announce..."I'M GEORGE CARLIN AND I'M HERE!!!!" I looked up...directly into his eyes and the glimmer was shining bright! Mr. Carlin proceeded to walk around the desk to where I was and together we went into his "STUFF" routine! This went on for about 15 minutes. I was in my glory! After we completed our tag team routine, Mr. Carlin graciously signed my autograph book (yes, I kept an autograph book at work and have 3 filled!) and left with a chuckle and the glimmer still blazing in his eyes.

It was a day that I will never forget. I will forever miss the irrascible gentleman that could make me laugh regardless of anything else on my mind.

RIP George Carlin...you will be missed.