[John]

Sad to hear of Tom's passing.

Tom was a long-time GCer (just over 20 years). I remember way back in the early days of GC Tom often referring to me as 'John, my HAL.' Not certain but I always figured that was a reference to HAL from the 2001 A Space Odyssey book/movie. Being a techie / computer geek myself, I liked the sound of it. I thought HAL = hardware access layer, but just now learned in terms of the book, Wikipedia reports: "HAL (Heuristically Programmed ALgorithmic Computer) is a sentient HAL/AL 9000-series computer (or artificial general intelligence)." Thanks for the memory, Tom, I smile when I think of it.

Also learned long ago on GC that Tom was a descendant of Wyatt Earp. I found out only after doing some searching on GC (years ago) to learn why another GCer referred to him as Tombstone. Thought maybe a younger GCer was taking shots at an older GCer. But turns out it was a reference to the 'Gunfight at the O.K. Corral' in Tombstone, Arizona where several members of the Earp family were among the lawmen side.

I very vaguely recall reading on GC, also long ago, where another GCer shared a family story how one of his ancestors helped Billy the Kid evade capture from Wyatt Earp's lawmen. Their ancestor covered Billy the Kid with a sort of tarp then they dumped a trailer of horse manure on top, hiding Billy the Kid just long enough for Wyatt Earp's lawmen to pass by on their chase through town. And here on GC were the descendants chatting together about it, which I thought was so interesting to see. I wonder if that discussion is still on GC.

Well, just wanted to share those few thoughts & memories related to Tom.

Rest In Peace, Tom Earp.