I'm sad to let you know that Scott, our dear Santa, passed away last night (April 30, 2018). He was 73.
Argyle
had various health issues, but he always bounced back to the blog. The
amputation was just too much for Santa physically. He was tired when I
last talked to him, but he kept his wits, humor and cynicism. The
classic Santa I knew and loved.
Argyle covered 840
puzzles for our blog. He also made seven puzzles for the L.A. Times and
two puzzles for the New York Times. It was always fun working with him.
Challenging too, as Santa could be very stubborn.
Off
the blog, he was my advisor and close friend. Seldom did I make any blog
or life decision without consulting Santa: "Santa, I don't get this
theme"; "Santa, my blood pressure is low again"; "Santa, did you see
that comment at 10:00am?". His replies were always short, succinct, to
the point and quick. He was always just one email away.
I
still can't believe he won't be back. He left a big hole in my life. I
just can't stop sobbing. But I feel very lucky to have had him in my
life for almost 10 years. A few months ago, he surprised me with an email I sent to him in 2008. He saved every email.
Santa, rest in peace. You'll always be in my heart. Thanks for all you've done for me and this blog.
I
also want to thank Argyle's adopted niece Jennifer Ballard for taking good care of him while busy with her own job and family life. She patiently answered all my questions and kept me updated on Santa's progress. Thank you, Jennifer!
Our condolences to Argyle's sisters Kalista Nichols, Laura Manitta, Sheilla, Claire and all his family.
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| Our Beloved Santa (Feb 20, 1945-April 30, 2018) |
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| Santa and His Four Sisters |
Santa and Jennifer at Jennifer and Dave's Wedding, June, 2011
You can send sympathy cards to this address:
Jennifer Ballard
188 West Rd.
Argyle, NY 12809
Thank you so much!
C.C.
Added later:
1) More Argyle remembrances and memories can be read on Tuesday May 2 puzzle post. Just scroll down to Comments Section.
2) Please click here to view Santa's obituary.
3) Please click here for all Santa's pictures. Or just click below YouTube clip I made. Sorry, Santa, I did a poor job cropping some pictures.
