Perhaps one of the best things about being a runner is that you can really get to know people whose paths you would otherwise never have crossed. Long runs make good friends. Beginning in 1997, when a few of us began training and traveling to races together, and continuing today, most of the people that I spend what rare spare time I have outside of my family and work commitments are fellow runners and bicyclists. So it is with our friend Steve Ulery.

The baby and I were running early Sunday when we passed Steve’s house. There, in the middle of the front yard was a "For Sale" sign. Then I was reminded that Steve had left his job a few months before and had been taking his time figuring out what he wanted to do "when he grew up". I felt bad for not spending more time with him while he had it, and I regret now more that I didn’t take more time to be a good neighbor. You see, now I hear that Steve took a job managing a plant in North Carolina and left south Mississippi.

During his few years in Mississippi, Steve Ulery volunteered as much time and gave as much materially in the way of door prizes and donations as anyone to helping at USM’s track meets, Pine Belt Pacers’ racing events, and all of our social events. He was always ready with a smile and encouraging word, and his wit abounded even as he fought off cancer two years ago. In fact, now that I think about it, I never heard him say a negative word about anybody or anything. He became a good friend to many of us personally. For example, I have learned as a father is that I am quite fond of anyone who expresses interest in or asks about my baby. Steve never failed to ask about Millie and be glad to see her when he did.

Steve and his wife Merry were honored last year by being made lifetime members of the Pine Belt Pacers. In retrospect, it’s probably better that Merry never let Steve go off with Keith, me and the boys some of our marathon trips since the club may not have been so longsuffering with him as it has with us. While she was worried what a bad influence we might be on Steve, (which was probably true), we just wanted him to be along for the experience.

Anyway, I just thought I’d say "so long" to a buddy. I hope we bump into one another again.