My friend Tom Ropella was remembered today at services in Menominee Wisconsin. Tom was bigger than life - an important part of who I am today.

I was 17 on my first day of college at the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point. My wingmates seemed nice enough - it's just that they were "Flock of Seagulls" and I was "Elvis Costello."

I wandered around the dorm that first day, and passed an open door, with the Rolling Stones played just a bit too loud. "Come on in, have a beer." said a large, blond haired smiling faced man in an overstuffed chair. A poster of Van Morrison hung on the wall. I had found a good friend.

A little later Pat Campbell walked in, and introduced himself as Tom's Roommate - and another lifelong friend entered my life.

Tom was the sun that we all orbited around. I lived with his brother Mark for three years, and Pat for another.

Tom did not suffer fools gladly - fiercely smart and well read, he could put anyone down with a well placed witty jab if they got too full of themselves. He could also cheer you up with a wink. And, he could get a bartenders attention with a simple lift of the eyebrows.

Hunter S. Thomson asked Tom where were heading once after a lecture in Wisconsin. Tom named a bar, and sure enough, Hunter showed up an hour later. We spent all night talking with Hunter, and ended up - 7 college students - arguing about fried chicken with the famous Gonzo Journalist. (Recollections of the evening vary widely - this is what I remember.)

Tom grew up to be a beloved 3rd grade teacher in Menominee. The visitation lasted 7 hours - with people waiting in line over an hour just to pay their respects.

Tom never said goodbye, he always just disappeared from parties. He didn't say goodbye this time, either.

This entry was posted by Mike Nolan, on Thursday, May 1, 2008. You can leave your response.