FROM PAUL INGRASIA

Bill... I like the old memories best...Paul

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John...Deacon was a real character. Herriott told Fox he would add "color" to the place and he did indeed! Mayme Ward did the same thing and curiously my wife and she became good friendly likely because both were great seamstresses and loved to b.s.. Deacon took all his work seriously and when on CWM grounds kept a shovel nearby and would never permit any manure from our many horses to interfere with the patrons shoes. His necktie and his gold cross were his trademarks. He looked sort of mad all the time but was easy to talk to but not chatty. Fr Callahan was his hook man every chance he got and yes did take over after Deacon was gone. Unfortunately we had to ask him to quit when his eyes and reflexes created a little too much excitement. He never forgave us. I don't think Fr Callahan would mind me telling this story. He would say mass at the lakefront for our visitors and workers. I was in the wholesale liquor business and would keep him supplied with Miniatures of various beverages to help ward off the lakefront chill. He usually kept them in his shirt pocket. While saying mass on Sunday he bowed low in advance of the final blessing and three miniatures of Gilbey's Gin hit the ground. He finished the blessing, bowed again to pick them up and smiled back at the congregation. Having Deacon at CWM was great for the visitors. Can you imagine today a vital CWM with the likes of Herriott, Buckles or Ward Hall to chat with? Share this if you wish....Paul