Thursday, December 9, 2021

Happy Birthday Chuck

Today is my friend Chuck's birthday! I have known Chachi for 25+ years. Technically, I first came across him in the mid-80s, when he worked with my sister Jean at the Chicago SunTimes. We became friends though when he joined Lerner Newspapers in 1995.

Over the years, Chachi has become one of my best friends. I think of him as a brother. We've been all over the country together, on baseball fields, in restaurants and everywhere else. I've shared many great times with Chuck. I even witnessed how he could have changed history at Dodger Stadium, but that's a story for another time.

Today, while I celebrate Chachi's day from afar, I want to let him know how much I appreciate him being in my life. I'm a better person for knowing Chuck.

I love the picture below. Chuck surrounded by his grandkids, is heartwarming. I'm proud to know Chuck's whole family. They are truly a great bunch, but it all starts with Chuck and his long-suffering wife Mary. (Ooops, I used an old joke there.)

Happy birthday, Chachi. Enjoy your day!

Chuck Gekas and his grandkids in Arlington Heights, IL-Summer 2021.

1 comment:

Jean Parker said...

Wow, what a great picture. Happy belated birthday Chuck. It seems like yesterday when we both worked at the Sun-Times. Best wishes always!!