Outspoken

I was always impressed with the energy- and sometimes "volatility" that Lev could contribute to any gathering. Tony once expressed astonishment that our sons Orion and Sy didn't fight like cats and dogs- he thought it was universal brother behavior! But from my vantage point as a neighbor it appeared that Lev and Jaal were growing into a brotherly relationship where they could share activities and discussions without the inevitable flare ups of temper that characterized their earlier interactions. I could often hear [only] Lev's voice when he and Jaal or friends were outside playing from our place, over a hundred yards away. When we would go to spend the evening with the Mann-Goertzels our family was amused by the level of volume and energy that the dinner conversation could hit, and it was usually Lev's enthusiam raising the bar!

One of my favorite Lev moments was when he testified before a large room full of people at a public forum on water fluoridation at Burlington High School. Lev spoke so eloquently against fluoridation of the public water supply that one County commissioner remarked:  "Son- you'll make a great lawyer!".

Lev's thoughtful questions and comments to the panel of commissioners may well have been a major influence in the commissioners' eventual vote against fluoridation, so part of Lev's legacy may be pure water in Skagit County. Thanks Lev, for always speaking your heart and mind loud and clear!

The last time I was with Lev was a year ago on July 4th as he proudly set off his prized assortment of fireworks.

Memories of that day and feelings of sorrow for his family's loss came flooding over me as I heard the cacophony just  a few days ago, and I guess they always will.  Miss you Lev!

-Don Smith,  July 8, 2011