Dear Claudia and family, Janet and I send you our deepest sympathy and warm hugs in hopes of somehow lessening the sorrow. The following is my tribute to my longtime friend. Dr. Bob Percy
My friend George --- 1932 - 2012
George and my friendship dates back to 1949 --- We attended rival high schools together. (SBHS & Colton)--- We were at SBVC until uncle Sam called. (George to the Navy & the Army sent for me) Back to SBVC. ----I then went on to UCLA and USC. George went into Real Estate and I started a Dental Practice --- George sold us our Highland house --- George was a patient of mine for 32 years (thanks for the house George) --- We served on many boards together. --- Since my retirement in 1993 we haven’t seen a lot of each other --- only at board meetings and some social functions.
There are many who think that not seeing each other very often might weaken a friendship. Not true! You don’t have to eat peanut butter every day to know that you love it! We were peanut butter friends.
George and I shared so much life and so much laughter since 1949. We shared our thoughts in confidence-----and also shouted them in various gatherings for all to hear.
We listened and cared with respect------and also exchanged caustic glances and stares followed by punishing “silent -- treatment.” But we had staying power! George always remembered what I had forgotten.-----especially on those “”rare” occasions when I was mistaken.
George forgave much--- forgot much--- and withstood much. More than occasionally he reached the end of his rope ---tied a knot and held on. I thank him for that.
George always gave of himself far more than was asked. He was always trusting and compassionate with others. Always present with a shoulder to lean on-- and ears to listen. However--if they did not carry their fair share of the load--perform to his standards--or were in any way disloyal ---they were history!!---He was good at forgiving but always remembered their names!
Being a friend always came naturally for George --. Taking time out to give of himself--bring comfort-- encouragement--peace -- and his warm wonderful smile to others.--He do it so well!!!!
Norman Vincent Peale said, ---”Think enthusiastically about everything you do. But especially your job! If you do so,(and George did) you’ll put a touch of glory in your life. If you love your job with enthusiasm you’ll shake it to pieces!!!!” --- AND YOU DID THAT GEORGIE BOY.
It is said that you are only as good as the people you choose as friends -----for the most part I was very good------on occasion --as with you GEORGE--I was Great!!!
Someone once said that friendship is a relationship that has no formal shape; there are no rules or obligations or bonds as in marriage or family. Friendships are not held together by law, property or blood and there is no glue in it but mutual liking and loyalty. It is therefore very rare.
George and my friendship was powerful and expressive. Based upon trust--honesty--and loyalty. It was nourished with laughter. It was more than just a feeling----it was a knowledge that each would always be there for the other. PEANUT BUTTER FRIENDS!
George left wonderful lasting traces wherever he went.----
We thank him for leaving traces on our hearts.
Dr. Bob & Janet Percy