My Euology for my Best Friend. Love ya and miss ya Dame.
When the Gallagher Family approached me to say a few words, apparently they thought I would be long winded, so they asked me to keep it short. And since I'm still on California Time, I expect to finish at 8:35 Pacific Coast Time.
A Son, A Brother, My Best Friend. I first met Damian in 8th Grade. Sr. Patricia came to me, Shaun, and Anthony and asked us to become friends with him. When we went out into the hallway, we introduced ourselves and then he spoke for the first time. The Irish accent was thick and very noticeable. We weren't sure what to do at hearing his accent. So as mature, sensitive 8th Graders, when he turned his back towards us, we cracked-up.
I spent the last 10 years not knowing where the journey would take us. Little did I know that we would become best friends. I remember this one time in high school, me and Dame spent the night over Shaun's house. Early in the "wee" hours of the morning, Damian wrote "Dork" on my forehead and smashed an egg in my face...But Best Friends can do that. This other time, Dame sits down next to me at lunch in the G.C. cafeteria. (In an Irish accent) He says,"Doc, lets go camping this weekend." So with no car and nobody willing to drive us anywhere, me, Dame and Shaun hiked deep into the forest in Gloucester City, you know, near the bellybutton bridge.
As I stand before you today, let us take a moment to remember the time and joy that we spent with Damian. I personally have spent time with Dame crying and laughing and I will always keep these memories close to my heart.
In the coming weeks, months, and years; the family will be in need of our constant Love and Support. I hope all of us will make a commitment to be there for the Gallagher Family, I know I will.