1998 was a pretty memorable year.
There was the McGwire and Sosa home run chase.
2002 Upper Deck World Series Heroes #57
And even more importantly (to me)... the San Diego Padres went to the World Series (but lost to the New York Yankees).
That's also the year I got hired in my district... and started working at the local card shop located right across the street from the elementary school I taught at.
Mike & Fedor Emelianenko
That's where I met my buddy Mike.
Me, Dodger Dog, Tony, & Mike on 8/9/19
I've written about him numerous times on this blog. We've went on road trips, set up and walked around flea markets, gone 'graphing, attended tons of sporting events, and hung out at toy and card shows. And over the years... he's become one of my closest friends.
Fast forward twenty-five years to 2023 and this year has been pretty memorable too. Unfortunately... I've gotta say... the past few months hasn't been positive.
2023 Topps Heritage 1974 Stamps #74BS 25-28
Let's see... the Padres and their $255M payroll failed to make the playoffs. The A's had the worst record in baseball... and MLB owners just approved their relocation to Las Vegas.
Last month, Papa Fuji passed away. Sadly... exactly one month later, Mike did too. He was only fifty-one years old.
Frank, Me, & Mike
The majority of those years were spent collecting and selling cards, autographed memorabilia, and toys. His generosity, kindness, and humor constantly drew other vendors and shoppers around him. I was always amazed at how many people he knew... but it makes sense, because he was one of the good guys and one helluva friend (even if you're a Yankees and 49ers fan).
Rest in peace homie! I miss ya. Until we meet again...
Happy Tuesday and sayonara!
23 comments:
Sorry for your loss, Fuji. He seems like he was a great guy.
So sorry to hear about your friend passing. My condolences.
Hang on to those good memories of Mike!
Sorry for your loss, Fuji. Mike sounds like a good guy and quality friend.
When it rains it pours :( So sorry that you've lost your father and a good friend in such a short amount of time. I'm gutted for you Fuji. Hope 2024 is much kinder to you.
So sorry and sad to hear about Mike. He was an amazing guy the few times I got to meet him. Rest in Peace!
Man, that's so young to go. Very sorry to hear that. He'll be in my thoughts.
Condolences on the loss of your friend.
Condolences. Sounds like he was a blessing in your life and memories. I'm also sure that you were in his too. Be strong my friend.
Sorry about the year you've had, Fuji, especially losing your dad and then Mike. He sounds like a great friend and I'm glad you shared memories of him here.
So sorry. Wonderful tribute.
I'm sorry for your loss, both of your friend and your father. 51 is way too young. My thoughts are with you and yours.
Sorry for your loss. This was a tough read. You're in my prayers.
Tough year for you. You have been in my prayers all year. Hope things get better and sorry for your loss
Sorry for the losses you've suffered this year. Seems like the hobby in general lost one of the real good ones...
My condolences on your loss.
My condolences, Fuji.
Sorry for you loss, this has been a bummer of year for you, hopefully 2024 will be much better.
Condolences Fuji, that is way too young. It's good you've got those great memories with Mike.
Sorry for your loss, Fuji. Glad you were able to make some great memories together
That sounds like a pretty great friendship. You were both very lucky, as a lot of people, especially these days, will never get to experience even a fraction of what you guys had.
Sorry to hear this. Sounds like you guys had some great experiences and that's what it's all about...
Ah, so sorry to hear. Glad you had so many great memories together.
Sorry for your loss, Fuji. 2023 has turned out to be a crap year for the passing of friends and family.
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