My sincerest condolences go out to the entire Wentworth family for their loss. Although it has been 30 or so years since I have been to Maine, I still have many fond memories of Herbie and the gang. "Herbie, Bruce S, Alonzo, David G, Pud, and Charlie C" What a crew these guys were! Someone should have made a movie, but as tight lipped as we all were, there would have been no one to tell the stories! I first met Herbie in Fletchers' landing where he had rented a place near to where our family was staying. Herbie was quick to be friendly, and would give the shirt off his back if he had a thought that you needed it. Back then, Herbie always met every situation with a slight grin. It was as if he had some in-depth knowledge of the event or events about to unfold that no one else had access too. That was part of Herbie's charm. If you were Herbie's friend, he fiercely had your back in all things and would defend you with great vigor. Who among us could ask for more? I recall a time when I stayed with him for a short while in Portland. One day, I came home with a "real bob cat". Now Herbie, he took a real instant liking to that cat. I know, not to smart on my part huh! The cat would fly through the room at the speed of light using it's claws as sharp piercing traction masters propelling it where ever it chose to invade. The cat would perch it's self atop the refrigerator hissing with ears pinned back ready to pounce on the next unlucky visitor. Herbie got a real kick out of that cat! However, not everyone in the apartment was thrilled at the notion of sharing space with this carnivorous creature. Herbie, after some reflection and more than a few deep scratches to the upholstery, us, and other hard to repair items throughout the apartment had the bright solution that we should contain this fierce critter in the bathroom at night, and especially when we were not at home. Now, at face value, this sounded like a really great idea - Huh. This was intended to prevent any further unforeseen damages on the part of this clearly unhappy character, and as we were about to head out for the day, It did seem like the perfect solution. Herbie put his new plan in action. Into the bathroom with the beast and the apartment is secure! Yeah! Unfortunately for us, The cat had other ideas! When we returned that same day, the cat had clawed and ripped up a large portion of the stone tiles directly off the floor and totally destroyed the bathroom. Now - I ask you - Who could have thought a cat could renovate a bathroom like that! Needless to say, Herbie's wife was not thrilled about the new house guest's performance, and placed the blame squarely where it belonged. I was forced to make other arrangements for the cat and in addition, I was to include myself in the relocation plans. Who could blame her? One thing I have to say about Herbie is that he had the wisdom to know when to throw in the towel. Why fight the loosing battle right? When I think back all those years ago about Herbie, I am reminded of Herbie's dad (Herbert Sr.) and the pride they both shared of the family dog who preferred morning coffee from a cup while sitting at the kitchen table as if he were just another one of the kids. Is that not just too cool! "What a great dog" and Herbie's mom, who fed me when I was hungry, and had wisdom of the ages behind those gentle eyes, and always had a kind and generous way about her. We all loved Herbie's wonderful sense of humor, and that no fear attitude about life that set him apart from the average citizen. Herbie had a really big heart, a kind soul, and lived life his way to the end "I'm sure". "We should all be so fortunate" Best Wishes and my sincerest condolences to all the family! An old friend in Alaska.....