The first thing you should know about Ted is that he laughs at his own jokes. Harmless jokes. Yet bad, nonetheless. Dad jokes. But Ted is also one of the most thoughtful, decent and kind people in the area. He's built hospitals and home additions. People are caring for one another at this very moment beneath roofs he's designed. But Ted has built more than structures. He's built family, friendships and community. You'd invite Ted over for a beer, laugh, tell stories, and then eventually break into the hard stuff. You'd give Ted your house key for safe keeping when you went on vacation. You'd ask Ted how to fix stuff in your house, and he'd come over and help you. He'd buy Girl Scout cookies from your daughter, and chocolate bars so your kid could fund a school trip. The whole time, he'd tell jokes. Some of which were funny. He'd laugh, and then you'd laugh at him laughing, and he'd laugh at you laughing. And soon you're breaking into the hard stuff, again. (Don't tell mom.) Ted, in short, is a good man. He's an architect of many things, the most important of which are in the hearts of those who knew him and loved him. And he'll be missed. Love you, Ted. I can still hear you laughing. read more
