From: Tristaan Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Tue, 20 Nov 2001 22:51:39 GMT Organization: PenTeleData http://www.ptd.net [Preface] Two things. First of all, I realized that tonight is Amethyst's turn on the PC at home so I will not be able to host this memorial real time. So I'm posting the introduction now. I'll ask Amethyst to moderate tonight for me. Hopefully she will agree. Secondly, this thread is dedicated solely to memories of Copper Squirrel. For those of you newbies, his posts showed up, usually, as coming from "C.M.". Historical research has shown that he is THE original member of ABML and, therefore, an integral part of life here. He will be sorely missed. Please, if you are responding to a post you find in this thread and it is not a personal memory of Copper, change the subject before you post. All posts found in this thread will be archived then for posterity both with the FAQ and on the My Family site. Usenet being what it is, even though the Memorial service officiall starts at 9PM Eastern US, posts are welcome in this thread for the next week until November 27th at which time I respectfully ask you to preserve the integrity of this thread and refrain from posting to it after November 27th. These things said... [Memorial Service] In the midst of their shock and grief, the denizens of ABMl find themselves transported through space and time to a quiet moment in the chapel attached to the Ogre, Elf, and Imp. Most of the decorations in the chapel appear muted, as if they too mourn the passing of a significant soul. All the pews are filled as entity after entity appear in place. In the front of the chapel, a window hangs in midair, displaying a photo...the photo of a man who will always been in the memories of those attending. Below the photo are two vases overflowing with white lilies sitting on the altar. In front of the altar, is a podium. Tristaan the ogre paces slowly up the aisle among the many patrons of ABML. He takes his place behind the podium, bows his head for a moment, and then begins to speak. "We are gathered hear as the friends and virtual family of an integral part of our cyber-lives. Some of us he has touched more than others but we have all been touched be the brief period he spent among us." "This service is dedicated to his memory, to his actions, to the things he did as he traveled through this world towards his final destination. This podium I stand behind is the symbol I offer to any who wish to speak on his behalf. All you need to do is step to the podium and speak." "I will begin by saying, for myself, I cannot say that Copper Squirrel and I always agreed on everything. I'm a staunch religious conservative with a very strong faith and belief. But he also had a strong faith, if not stronger. Even though our faiths didn't always mesh, I respected him greatly for his strength and belief." "I remember his humor. Always ready with a good joke, a good pun, a visual image that would leave you in stitches." "I remember the 'team' action many times between *Bob* and Skippy the Brass Squirrel." "Memories flood my mind. It's so hard to pick just one or two." "But I know this. He was a friend. Somehow, I felt that he was always there. Anytime I needed someone to make me laugh, I could count on him. Anytime I needed to bounce some ideas off someone elses brain, I could count on him." "He will be missed." Tristaan looks up to the congregation. "Now it's your turn. As I step down, please step up to the podium. Share your memories so that, in turn, our memories of him will grow fuller." Tristaan steps down from the podium and takes a seat in the front row beside his wife. He picks up his daughter and gives her hug. Tristaan ********************************************* ********************************************* Date: Tue, 20 Nov 2001 22:28:57 -0600 From: Bookwyrm <3jay1kay@...> Reply-To: 3jay1kay@... Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Organization: BnB, L.P. I'm not one of the very first abml-ers, but I know I showed up in late 1995. There aren't a lot of us older ones who still stick around here. Looking back now, I realize that Copper was the constant Pole Star of this group. It's so obvious, now that that Star isn't up there in the sky anymore. He was a consistant poster, both in quantity and quality. His last post to the group was on the day he died and was a greeting to the latest newbie to delurk. With an invitation to join in the ever-present food fight. Copper was one of us "big kids" -- but he never, *ever* was afraid to have a joyous time playing with the "little kids". And all you "little kids" could sense that, didn't you? Copper was so many things to so many people -- serious debater, craftsman, punster, playmate, friend, loving son, student of the world. We will miss him terribly -- and it will be up to us to remember and try to continue his legacy of "family" here in abml. And to do it with as much joy and laughter as we can muster. Bookwyrm ********************************************* ********************************************* From: "Kathleen M. Davis" Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Tue, 20 Nov 2001 22:54:37 -0800 Organization: BnB, L.P. > [Memorial Service] > In the midst of their shock and grief, the denizens of ABMl find > themselves transported through space and time to a quiet moment in the > chapel attached to the Ogre, Elf, and Imp. Most of the decorations in > the chapel appear muted, as if they too mourn the passing of a > significant soul. > > All the pews are filled as entity after entity appear in place. In > the front of the chapel, a window hangs in midair, displaying a > photo...the photo of a man who will always been in the memories of > those attending. Below the photo are two vases overflowing with white > lilies sitting on the altar. In front of the altar, is a podium. > > Tristaan the ogre paces slowly up the aisle among the many patrons of > ABML. He takes his place behind the podium, bows his head for a > moment, and then begins to speak. > > "We are gathered hear as the friends and virtual family of an integral > part of our cyber-lives. Some of us he has touched more than others > but we have all been touched be the brief period he spent among us." > > "This service is dedicated to his memory, to his actions, to the > things he did as he traveled through this world towards his final > destination. This podium I stand behind is the symbol I offer to any > who wish to speak on his behalf. All you need to do is step to the > podium and speak." > > "I will begin by saying, for myself, I cannot say that Copper Squirrel > and I always agreed on everything. I'm a staunch religious > conservative with a very strong faith and belief. But he also had a > strong faith, if not stronger. Even though our faiths didn't always > mesh, I respected him greatly for his strength and belief." > > "I remember his humor. Always ready with a good joke, a good pun, a > visual image that would leave you in stitches." > > "I remember the 'team' action many times between *Bob* and Skippy the > Brass Squirrel." > > "Memories flood my mind. It's so hard to pick just one or two." > > "But I know this. He was a friend. Somehow, I felt that he was > always there. Anytime I needed someone to make me laugh, I could > count on him. Anytime I needed to bounce some ideas off someone elses > brain, I could count on him." > > "He will be missed." > > Tristaan looks up to the congregation. > > "Now it's your turn. As I step down, please step up to the podium. > Share your memories so that, in turn, our memories of him will grow > fuller." > > Tristaan steps down from the podium and takes a seat in the front row > beside his wife. He picks up his daughter and gives her hug. > Kat slips away from Jesse's comforting arms and wends her way among the mourners, to the podium. I guess that I've been a member of ABML for about a year and a half, now, although it seems like forever. I consider you all family. We may not always agree on things, but whenever there is joy or sadness in my life, this is where I come to share it. And Copper was a vital part of that. The place just seems to dull and gray without him. *sigh* My life has been richer for having been able to share in his humour and knowledge. He will, indeed, be sorely missed. Wiping the tears from her eyes, Kat goes back to her seat, to hold Jesse a little closer, and think on the shortness of life. -- Kathleen M. Davis A.K.A. Kat ********************************************* ********************************************* From: "Purrt" Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 02:13:13 GMT Organization: PenTeleData http://www.ptd.net The golden-haired ghatta hesitantly stepped up to the podium, then shimmered into her human form. I haven't been here as long as a lot of you, and don't have the history with Coppers that you may have. However, I feel compelled to share in this memorial as well. Coppers was a stone in the foundation of abml - always there, steadfast. No matter how bad a day I'd had, when I came here, I knew that he'd have an awful joke or pun to brighten my visit. I really looked forward to his "contributions" to our shared hilarity. I'm not real good at eulogies and I don't think he'd want us to mourn him in sadness and grief. So, (she raises a glass) here's to you, Copper Squirrel! May all the gods bless you. -- Purrt the ghatta Disciple to the Goddess of Chocolate Owner of a full Pedant's licenc/se Goddess of Impertinence Snikkrish the Tearer ********************************************* ********************************************* From: Tristaan Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Reply-To: rmartin3@... Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 02:30:44 GMT Organization: PenTeleData http://www.ptd.net Tristaan smiles at the ghatta as she makes her way back to her seat. Waiting a few moments, he gets back up to the podium. "Probably, like me, many of you are searching for something unique, something distinctively his to share." "This memory is one of those situations where Copper and I had our differences. But as Gyre mentioned before, it was something that brought me to where I am today." "Sometime ago, probably a year, year and half, a discussion was spawned discussing the theological, philosophical, and scientological differences between the theory of evolution and the biblical account of Genesis. The two main debators: myself and Copper." "You know, I don't think either of us convinced the other of our particular view point. But the view doesn't matter. In retrospect, looking back, that discussion, although heated, actually helped me. It helped me examine my own faith, my own beliefs in a logical, methodical way." "Copper was like that. In the realms of theology and philosophy, he was very...logical...scientific...And I admired that. He was very well learned. All his beliefs, his ideas, he backed up point by point." "To have it together like that," the ogre shakes his head, "I only wish that I did. I'm still young in comparison. My ideals and philosophies are still changing. Copper showed maturity in his intelligent discussion. I really admired that. It's something that I aspire to." "So, not a happy memory exactly, but it's another insight into this man we are here to remember tonight. Perhaps you have something similar to share, something he did that shaped your life, your thought." Tristaan relenquished the podium to the next speaker. ********************************************* ********************************************* From: quartz88nospam@... (Matrix Viking) Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 02:28:20 GMT Organization: Posted via Supernews, http://www.supernews.com On Tue, 20 Nov 2001 22:51:39 GMT, Tristaan declaimed: >"Now it's your turn. As I step down, please step up to the podium. >Share your memories so that, in turn, our memories of him will grow >fuller." > >Tristaan steps down from the podium and takes a seat in the front row >beside his wife. He picks up his daughter and gives her hug. The Viking and Arian both step up to the podium, dressed in somber greys and blacks. He clears his throat nervously; "I have to admit that I haven't been here as much as I was originally. Real life had a habit of intruding rudely and kept me away. After a while, it sort of got to be a habit to just check and occasionally post when something interesting came up. "The one thing I could always rely on when I'd turn to ABML is seeing a multitude of posts on ABML, mainly humorous. Most were pretty darn good...and some, well, they made me groan in appreciation. "Though I never got to meet him, even though we lived in the same city, I did regard him as a steady influence here. If there were no serious conversations about whatever was doing on...anything from biccing Dsalv to Misty to nuts (and we *all* knew how he felt about nuts) "I won't tell you to not cry; it's our way of dealing with loss and pain. I've shed my tears and the sadness is still there. But I ask you all...let's try to make this a joyous occasion. His humor, his caring, and of course, his punning. "Yes, his presence will be missed...but he *will* be with us always." With that, MV and Arian join hands and the wall behind them becomes a window, showing The Evertree, undergoing its constant metamorphosis, the sun setting behind it. In the tree, flitting from branch to branch, are a pair of ghostly squirrels; one copper-colored and storing nuts...the other with brass colored fur, trying to figure a way to sell a new type of mouse trap. "Be well, Copper Squirrel. Be well." ********************************************* ********************************************* From: Tristaan Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Reply-To: rmartin3@... Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 03:00:10 GMT Organization: PenTeleData http://www.ptd.net Tristaan, after Matrix's sharing, appears to be listening to another voice. He looks over his shoulder to the back of the chapel. There, slinking out the back door is a white ferret with a cinnamon colored blaze on her back. He nods in acknowledgement and stands up. "A friend of ours regretfully has to miss this evenings service. However, she wished me to send her condolences. She acknowledges the role that Copper played in all our lives and remembers dearly his humor. It is that one thing that stands out so strongly in her mind." With a nod towards CinnamonBlaze as she scurries off through the forest, Tristaan sits again. ********************************************* ********************************************* From: Edna Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Organization: Bardic Collegium Content-transfer-encoding: 8bit User-Agent: YA-NewsWatcher/3.1.8 Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 02:57:01 GMT A petite, raven-haired bard steps up to the podium. Wiping a tear from her eye, she begins in a soft voice: I discovered the world of a.b.m-l in the spring of 1995, and Copper Squirrel was already one of the foundations of the group. I always enjoyed his posts. I try not to clutter up the mailboxes of my friends with too many jokes, but many of the very best ones that I absolutely had to share were ones that he posted. Copper Squirrel, you will be missed. As she steps off the podium, she raises her arm. An unseen orchestra and chorus take the cue and fill the chapel with the opening strains of Mozart's Reqiuem. Reqiuem aeternum dona eis, Domine... Edna :( ********************************************* ********************************************* From: jenwon@... (Jenwon) Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 03:05:11 GMT Organization: Road Runner - NC On Tue, 20 Nov 2001 22:51:39 GMT, Tristaan wrote: >"But I know this. He was a friend. Somehow, I felt that he was >always there. Anytime I needed someone to make me laugh, I could >count on him. Anytime I needed to bounce some ideas off someone elses >brain, I could count on him." > >"He will be missed." Unfortunately, I have not had much time to spend in ABML of late and did not have a chance to speak with Copper recently. However, I do cherish my memories of him. Copper was one of the first ABMLers I met upon my delurk, oh so long ago. He was always there to make me laugh when I needed it and to provide insight into discussions/matters of all sorts. This day, I have brought 2 flowers in memory of him, the Lily for obvious reasons, and the daffodil because 1. It is always the first flower to bloom in spring, and always brings a smile to the faces of those who see it and feel hope because they realize that the cold & harsh weather is coming to an end...Copper had the same trait; 2. The daffodil is one of the brightest, cheeriest flowers I know...again, similar to Copper, but without the puniness; 3. The daffodil is my favorite flower because of its specialness, and I think Copper would have liked sentiment. 2 flowers to bloom side-by-side in memory of Copper Squirrel for all time. Jenwon/Jenny (letting the tears flow) ***************************************************** All spammers will be issued the worst punishment on the face of the earth: trapped in a room with a factor 10 migraine with the Taco Bell Chihuahua constantly repeating "Yo quiero Taco Bell?" -so sayeth the vengeful Jenwon Response by roommate: "Warped; isn't she?" ***************************************************** ********************************************* ********************************************* From: mct@... Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 03:14:40 +0000 (UTC) Organization: UC Bezerkeley Sender: Megan Thomas User-Agent: tin/1.4.2-20000205 ("Possession") (UNIX) (SunOS/5.8 (sun4u)) Tristaan scribbled: > "Now it's your turn. As I step down, please step up to the podium. > Share your memories so that, in turn, our memories of him will grow > fuller." Megan steps up to the podium. I am not, in either RL or on-line, the world's most eloquent speaker, nor very good at thinking up a quick joke or pun. I admire that ability in others, the ability to make up a quip to fit the moment. Copper had that talent; every day's posting from ABML seemed to show it off. I looked forward to his short and sharp posts. He had a rich and active sense of humor; I imagine it infused his RL days as thoroughly as it did his time here on ABML. Knowing people like that is a joy; they see the humor in life, in living, and help others see it too. Copper did that. As I cannot myself think up a really stunning joke to fit this occasion, I thought I'd share an old post of Coppers. I don't save many posts from ABML, but I thought this one was so good I had to keep it around. From: C M Subject: Re: Math Stuff (You have been warned) Was: Re: POINT Scores Date: Thu, 04 Jan 2001 22:57:11 -0800 On 16 Sep 2000 18:42:12 GMT, captainwolf@... (Captain Wolf) wrote: >And I suppose you're the model of the modern copper squirrel, treed. > > Wolf (Gilbert and Sulivan? I don't know no Gilbert and Sulivan.), > Bard You certainly don't. That line doesn't scan at all! ( suddenly thousands of windup squirrels assemble an opera hall in a conveniently empty("All Right! All you trolls are hereby evicted!") room of the Ogre & Elf ) The lights dim The curtain opens The music begins "I am the very model of a modern metal squirrel, I work in materials vegetable, animal and mineral, I know how to spell innerscent and quote the jokes hysterical, I'm very well acquainted with spam and troll kill, I understand punning, points and all things pythonical About the mad scientists lab I'm teeming with a lot o' news, I've even found a use for the brain cells Salv9 does not use! ALL: He's even found a use for the brain cells salv9 does not use" ------- End of Post ----- -- Megan Acolyte to the God of Grilled-SPAM, Apprentice Dancing Barbarian Keeper of the FAQ: http://www.cs.berkeley.edu/~mct/abml/ ********************************************* ********************************************* From: Tristaan Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Reply-To: rmartin3@... Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 03:53:36 GMT Organization: PenTeleData http://www.ptd.net Tristaan listens to Megan's recitation and starts to chuckle softly to himself. Not able to hold it in, he starts to laugh. As Megan sits down, he stands up again. "Who was it that said to remember Copper joyfully? Thank you for saying that. Megan's memory brought to mind when Salv9 first appeared on ABML. Here we all were, angry, upset, and ready to flame this obvious troll." "Then up steps Skippy the Brass Squirrel with his $2 million smile and his slick salesman ways and starts selling, of all things, dolls made up like Salv9." "And this joke lives on. No matter what, as soon as someone with a rediculous, self-righteous, bigotted notion comes on-line, there's Skippy with another doll ready to poke fun." Tristaan steps up to the altar and places between the vases of lilies a Kick-Me Salv9 doll complete with burning cross stuck up his...well...you know. Still laughing, Tristaan sits down again. -- ****************************************** Ogre-Monk, ICQ# 14668166 God of Grilled-SPAM™ and Summer, Disciple of Babble Assistant Librarian/Orangutan, Pedant Target, Chief Brute Husband of Amethyst, Father of Charis, Co-Owner of The Ogre, the Elf, and the Imp Violinist for the ABML out-of-practice-musicians band Keyboard Martyr, Keeper of the ABML Cookbook Remove SPAM trap to reply "There exists no dream worth chasing if it cannot satisfy. There exists no god worth serving if he cannot hear your cry" - Circle of Dust ******************************************* ********************************************* ********************************************* From: Stacey Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 03:23:45 GMT Organization: Excite@Home "Although I haven't been here much lately, I always knew I could come back and my friends would be here." Choked up for a moment, Stacey looks down before continuing. "Although I didn't know Copper as well as other, older members, I did think of him as a good friend who could always be counted on. One thing I will always remember about Copper was how he was always one of the first to welcome new members, usually by starting a food fight! If one of us was unhappy, he was always here to cheer us up, with a quick joke or pun." "He will be missed." Before leaving the podium, Stacey places a magical ever-hot, ever-fresh pie near the memorial, then slowly leaves the podium to return to her seat, quietly crying for the loss of a dear friend. Stacey ICQ# 40581931 AIM: buddykat Proud owner of a gold-embossed special millennium pedant licens/ce Goddess of Pies High Priestess to the Goddess of Cats Disciple to the Goddess of Equines, Large & Small ********************************************* ********************************************* From: Kathleen Secor Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 04:29:33 GMT Organization: Vassar College (vassar.edu) (With thanks to Jenwon, who let me know. Jenwon -- I cc'd this to you because I'm having problems getting my posts out. Could you please post it for me if it doesn't show up tonight? Thanks.) > Tristaan looks up to the congregation. > > "Now it's your turn. As I step down, please step up to the podium. > Share your memories so that, in turn, our memories of him will grow > fuller." Aiglet looks up at her sudden appearance and listens to Tristaan's announcement in shock. As she listens to speaker after speaker, she seems to be gathering her courage for something. After a while, she waits for an empty spot at the podium, pulling something from her backpack as she gets up there. "I know a lot of you don't know who I am, because I haven't been back here in a long time, so I'm going to explain a bit about me, so I can explain to you all how important Coppers was to me. When I first came to ABML, I was 13. That was a bit under 9 years ago. My mother had just died, and I thought I was never going to be "home" again. Coppers was one of the first people to step forward and make me feel like I might have half a chance of belonging somewhere, of having friends again. He made me laugh when I thought I'd forgotten how. I knew that no matter what was wrong with me, no matter how screwed up I got, I could come here, and Coppers would be one of the people who would patiently help me put myself back together, with a laugh and a smile and never ask for anything back. I guess I thought that all of those people would always be here. That I could always come home for a laugh and a round of tag. Now I know that isn't true, and I find to my sadness that I wish I'd been here more often. All I have to give Coppers is this. I made it for him a long time ago, and never gave it to him." Aiglet turns away from the podium and places a brass mug with the other remembrances. Its handle is shaped like a squirrel reaching for a hazelnut, and the outside is engraved with trees and scenes from Coppers' tenure here. "Wherever you are, Coppers, be happy, and know that you are remembered here... Drink well from this!" As she returns to her seat, Aiglet is quietly crying, but smiling, as she remembers some of Coppers' more ... interesting pranks -- it is a more fitting remembrance. -- "You trust beyond reason." "Yes. It's how I get results beyond hope." -- Lois McMaster Bujold, _A Civil Campaign_ ********************************************* ********************************************* From: whatisname@... (Gyre) Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 12:09:39 -0800 Organization: ITServices, University of British Columbia User-Agent: MacSOUP/2.4 (unregistered for 980 days) > Aiglet looks up at her sudden appearance and listens to Tristaan's > announcement in shock. As she listens to speaker after speaker, she > seems to be gathering her courage for something. After a while, she > waits for an empty spot at the podium, pulling something from her > backpack as she gets up there. > > "I know a lot of you don't know who I am, because I haven't been back > here in a long time, so I'm going to explain a bit about me, so I can > explain to you all how important Coppers was to me. A wind whispers and wraps Aiglet up in a warm hug. "Some of us still remember you dear. Sad as it is to be here at this time, it is good to know you are around." Smiling, he looks down at the mug left for Copper and bows his head. -gh -- Time was when politicians were evil scum... now they're just silly. ********************************************* ********************************************* From: quartz88nospam@... (Matrix Viking) Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Thu, 22 Nov 2001 01:56:06 GMT Organization: Posted via Supernews, http://www.supernews.com On Wed, 21 Nov 2001 12:09:39 -0800, whatisname@... (Gyre) declaimed: >> Aiglet looks up at her sudden appearance and listens to Tristaan's >> announcement in shock. As she listens to speaker after speaker, she >> seems to be gathering her courage for something. After a while, she >> waits for an empty spot at the podium, pulling something from her >> backpack as she gets up there. >> >> "I know a lot of you don't know who I am, because I haven't been back >> here in a long time, so I'm going to explain a bit about me, so I can >> explain to you all how important Coppers was to me. > > A wind whispers and wraps Aiglet up in a warm hug. > > "Some of us still remember you dear. Sad as it is to be here at >this time, it is good to know you are around." > > Smiling, he looks down at the mug left for Copper and bows his >head. > A brief promise of winter tickles the nostrils and Gyre feels the presence of Matrix Viking standing next to him. MV gently places a hand on his shoulder and says, "You too, brother. You, too." He then reaches into his cloak and withdraws a windup squirrel and places it next to the mug, ready to be used at any given notice. ********************************************* ********************************************* From: Kathleen Secor Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Thu, 22 Nov 2001 06:28:26 GMT Organization: Vassar College (vassar.edu) (This has been cc'd... If it doesn't show up, could you please post it for me? Thanks!) Dave Joll wrote: > "Farewell Charles Martel. You will be missed." Aiglet looks up at this from her wandering huggings of old and new friends and passing out of handkerchiefs. "Well, no wonder the man was a punster -- his entire life was a pun!" Aiglet starts to giggle softly. She goes up to the group of remembrances and starts putting little hammers in the hands of all the squirrels on the table. "I can only say I'm glad that Coppers didn't have any sons to cut as large a swath as his predecessor's did!" Looking at the assembled War Squirrels, Aiglet laughs gently for a minute and then turns to explain to the assembled group. "Charles Martel is the Anglicization of the French name for Charlemagne's father. The original CM was known for the fact that he rode to war with this huge *hammer* and was supposed to be slightly crazy all the time anyway. I couldn't resist sharing the mental image of all these insane brass squirrels riding out to conquer the universe with these little squirrel-sized hammers... I hope you all enjoyed it as much as I did..." Aig -- "You trust beyond reason." "Yes. It's how I get results beyond hope." -- Lois McMaster Bujold, _A Civil Campaign_ ********************************************* ********************************************* From: "Sasha Rowan" Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 04:59:30 GMT Organization: AT&T Worldnet -- Sasha Winner of first ABML Quiz Trophy Member of ABMLNCSC Disciple to the Co-Goddesses of Sweets "Tristaan" wrote in message news:skmlvt03fhmcjhv2lj3up427lma9ion9cu@4ax.com... > [Memorial Service] > In the midst of their shock and grief, the denizens of ABMl find > themselves transported through space and time to a quiet moment in the > chapel attached to the Ogre, Elf, and Imp. Most of the decorations in > the chapel appear muted, as if they too mourn the passing of a > significant soul. > > All the pews are filled as entity after entity appear in place. In > the front of the chapel, a window hangs in midair, displaying a > photo...the photo of a man who will always been in the memories of > those attending. Below the photo are two vases overflowing with white > lilies sitting on the altar. In front of the altar, is a podium. > > Tristaan the ogre paces slowly up the aisle among the many patrons of > ABML. He takes his place behind the podium, bows his head for a > moment, and then begins to speak. > > "We are gathered hear as the friends and virtual family of an integral > part of our cyber-lives. Some of us he has touched more than others > but we have all been touched be the brief period he spent among us." > > "This service is dedicated to his memory, to his actions, to the > things he did as he traveled through this world towards his final > destination. This podium I stand behind is the symbol I offer to any > who wish to speak on his behalf. All you need to do is step to the > podium and speak." Sasha steps up to the podium. "I haven't been here long, not even a full year yet. Copper's posts always brought a smile if not a full laugh. Not many memories, just that he was a cornerstone of this group. I'm still stunned." Sasha steps down, weeping and hugs the person nearest her. ********************************************* ********************************************* From: "Mary Creasey" Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Organization: Random Factors Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 22:22:01 GMT Tristaan wrote in message news:skmlvt03fhmcjhv2lj3up427lma9ion9cu@4ax.com... [snip] > "Now it's your turn. As I step down, please step up to the podium. > Share your memories so that, in turn, our memories of him will grow > fuller." The Filker stands up again..."I almost forgot something..." She turns to one side of the chapel and opens an X-window to another newsgroup. "I don't remember who now, but a PLAQUE has been posted in his name by one of our other ABMLers on alt.callahans, where he also visited now and again." -- Mary the Filker Precentrix of the Temple of Unfinished Projects Applicant for Precentrix of the Temple of Mess Pedant Licens[c]ee, Spelling & Grammar Division Keyboardist, ABM-L Out-Of-Practice Musicians Band Partnered with GuildMaster Married to John ********************************************* ********************************************* From: whatisname@... (Gyre) Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 12:09:41 -0800 Organization: ITServices, University of British Columbia User-Agent: MacSOUP/2.4 (unregistered for 980 days) A look of distance in his eye, Gyre stands by the back of the group. He seems lost in thought as he stares into space. As voices still, as silence creeps in, he begins to speak in a conversational tone that carries. Mourn not the end of days That brings the silence of sunlight And the burnishing of gold Rather bind up the dreams and wait Beside the firelight, in the arms of love. Trust not the words spoken and said In haste or wishful thinking Instead trust the heart In its stillness of faith To be true to meaning. Gather not in sadness Where laughter rang, well a voice sang In its joy and continuing living unsung Turn to each other, rather, With a smile and twist of phrase on bent lip. Remember in the shallow darkness The depth of light of past day And those who walked its roads Head high, humour strong Honouring itself and others. Let simple thoughts fill the air As we brush at the dust of memory And find the fingerprints of one Deeply lined in some place of ourselves, Built upon by time. And there shall be no more marks No more laughter of his own But that which is gone is no less For it existed, echoes still In our own voices, lifted here and now. So, remember, remember and rejoice With what we have, At what we shall surely take onward with us And mourn not the end of this day That brings silence, and hints at a tomorrow... -gh -- Time was when politicians were evil scum... now they're just silly. ********************************************* ********************************************* Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey From: Star Creature Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) X-Abuse-Info: When contacting newsranger.com regarding abuse please X-Abuse-Info: forward the entire news article including headers or X-Abuse-Info: else we will not be able to process your request Organization: http://www.newsranger.com Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 13:07:58 GMT Star steps quietly up to the memorial. She has nothing to say which has not already been said in better words, and so does not approach the podium. For a moment she lingers silently in front of the collection of things, rememebering the moments and memories that they represent. Then a candle appears in her hand. She adds it to the memorial. Once it is in place, the wick sparks and lights itself. She bows her head. Star Creature Stop the babble to e-mail me. ********************************************* ********************************************* From: SnowCat Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 13:14:16 -0500 Organization: The International Wenches Guild Mime-Version: 1.0 Tristaan wrote: > "Now it's your turn. As I step down, please step up to the podium. > Share your memories so that, in turn, our memories of him will grow > fuller." A Large clouded snow leopard slips into the back of the chapel, shimmers into a woman with long blonde hair and sits in the last row of the pews. *sigh* Crying freely, places a candle by the picture hanging up front - turns and says ... "Copper was one of the people you could expect to always be here and now ..... words fail me. Death. It's the high cost of living. We were gifted with his presence and now we are left ample memories of fun & humor but his debates as well .... Good bye luv' ... we'll miss you. -- SnowCat The Ice Wench Peu de Noir Coeur Wench #48 Madame Cum Laude IDIC ********************************************* ********************************************* From: "Elgion" Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 13:57:30 GMT Elgion walks up to the podium from the back of the chapel. Hello all. Many of you probably don't know me because I was a very infrequent poster. I tended to lurk and enjoy the antics of ABML-land from the sidelines. Recently, due to RL intrusions, I haven't been able to read the group, but something, some still, small voice the other day day said, "Check ABML". I did, and was shocked, as we all were, to read about the passing of Copper. Many times when I needed a joke to send to friends or family, I would dip into ABML, knowing that I would find a story or bad pun that would bring a smile. Most of the time, the signature at the end belonged to Copper. He was such an intrinsic part of the group, that his loss is a loss for us all, and ABML is diminished because of it. ********************************************* ********************************************* From: redsonja@... (Red Sonja) Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Reply-To: redsonja@... Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 13:57:35 GMT Organization: Road Runner - NC On Tue, 20 Nov 2001 22:51:39 GMT, Tristaan wrote: >Tristaan looks up to the congregation. > >"Now it's your turn. As I step down, please step up to the podium. >Share your memories so that, in turn, our memories of him will grow >fuller." I will always remember the laughter and the humor Copper Squirrel shared with abml, and through that medium, with me. Be it silly pun or horrible bad groaner joke, his humor always brought at least a smile and most often loud laughter. He was just as quick if not quicker to offer sympathy and support when other members were going through rough times in their lives. No, we did not always agree in our viewpoints. But it was refreshing to hear an honest opinion even if it differed from my own and it was never stated in anything less heated than polite disagreement. He was an integral part of abml and the group will never be quite the same without his posting. *the tall redhead leaves a bouquet of white roses held together with copper wire on the podium, and returns to her seat with bowed head and tear-filled eyes* Sonja ********************************************* ********************************************* From: "Oh Mike Ghod!" Reply-To: ohmikeghod@... Organization: Dancing Barbarians Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 16:02:18 GMT Copper. What can I say that hasn't been already? He brightened my life. He made me happy. Above all else, he made me laugh. Copper Squirell didn't have the official title of Court Jester of ABML, but he fulfilled the duties of the office. He was always here in his virtual tree, gathering all of us nuts for the winter. Now winter has arrived, and the nuts will have to fend for themselves. I'm going to start using my .sig again. Copper would have wanted that. ---Mike--- Agent of the dancing barbarians (+apprentice) Keeper of the list Member of the Guild of Free Pedants High priest of liquer-filled chocococolates Rabble Leader Head of the Stern Gang ********************************************* ********************************************* Reply-To: "Kore Melanaegis" From: "Kore Melanaegis" Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 16:04:17 +1300 Organization: TelstraSaturn Kore Melanaegis quietly walks up to the altar and places a posy of brightly coloured forget-me-nots by the photo, whispers "we will not forget you Copper Squirrel" and silently slips back to her seat. ********************************************* ********************************************* From: Nightshade Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 20:23:32 +1000 Reply-To: kgoldingNOSPAM@... Everyone else has said it so much better than I can: Copper Squirrel was one of a kind. As I said elsewhere, Somewhere, the Brass Squirrel is harassing Someone, selling them interesting merchandise, and generally wreaking havoc. The Squirrels in Black don't exist. And Copper himself is enjoying a quiet laugh at the craziness of it all, when he isn't tormenting and delighting all and sundry with his knowledge, punning and Copper Squirrel-ness. To me, he will always be the One, True Copper Squirrel. Nightshade ********************************************* ********************************************* Reply-To: "GoodLittleBear" From: "GoodLittleBaer" Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 22:08:23 +0100 Organization: Bluewin AG Gyre wrote in message <1f3815a.1ge4702ww5t1eN@hartmiket.cheos.ubc.ca>... >So, remember, remember and rejoice >With what we have, >At what we shall surely take onward with us >And mourn not the end of this day >That brings silence, and hints at a tomorrow... A respectful silence ensues, then timidly GoodLittleBear raises up a paw, and seeing Tristaan nod afar, speaks up: Thank you Copper Squirrel, my memories of you are few, but I treasure your "if you're a bear" which I kept never suspecting ... With that GoodLittleBear fades back into the pews ... ********************************************* ********************************************* From: "Mary Creasey" Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Organization: Random Factors Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 22:17:59 GMT Tristaan wrote in message news:skmlvt03fhmcjhv2lj3up427lma9ion9cu@4ax.com... > [Memorial Service] > In the midst of their shock and grief, the denizens of ABMl find > themselves transported through space and time to a quiet moment in the > chapel attached to the Ogre, Elf, and Imp. Most of the decorations in > the chapel appear muted, as if they too mourn the passing of a > significant soul. > > All the pews are filled as entity after entity appear in place. In > the front of the chapel, a window hangs in midair, displaying a > photo...the photo of a man who will always been in the memories of > those attending. Below the photo are two vases overflowing with white > lilies sitting on the altar. In front of the altar, is a podium. > Tristaan looks up to the congregation. > > "Now it's your turn. As I step down, please step up to the podium. > Share your memories so that, in turn, our memories of him will grow > fuller." > The Filker arises, holding GuildMaster. "We remember MANY, many fun and humorous stories and jokes; not a few e-mail exchanges [I thought 'Charles Martel' was an appropriate name for a metalsmith--'Charles the Hammer']; a mutual interest in fillk music, especially Lackey, Fish and Alexander; and much else. How I wish we'd met in RS." -- Mary the Filker Precentrix of the Temple of Unfinished Projects Applicant for Precentrix of the Temple of Mess Pedant Licens[c]ee, Spelling & Grammar Division Keyboardist, ABM-L Out-Of-Practice Musicians Band Partnered with GuildMaster Married to John ********************************************* ********************************************* From: "Dave Joll" Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 22:16:09 +1300 Organization: ? Surely you jest! A sort of tall ish and sort of round ish Kiwi wanders up to the podium. "Hi everyone. I've only been posting to the group a year or so but already feel fairly well at home around here. "I remember the Copper Squirrel mostly for the jokes he sent us and for his tales of the Brass Squirrel's activities. I've passed a lot of his messages around my RL friends and the office I work in. "I had been thinking of posting a joke here tonight but couldn't quite find one that would fit the occasion. But when I read a good joke on the newsgroup and pass it on to my contacts I will think of you. "Farewell Charles Martel. You will be missed." The sort of tall ish and sort of round ish Kiwi stands down from the podium and fades back into the crowd. ********************************************* ********************************************* From: "prpldrgn" Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2001 22:27:53 -0700 Not having anything to say the small purple dragon flies to the altar where a tear drips down and then grows large enough that whoever looks into it will see their favorite moments of Copper. prpldrgn ********************************************* ********************************************* From: "Purrt" Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Thu, 22 Nov 2001 01:20:12 GMT Organization: PenTeleData http://www.ptd.net Just read this poem in the December Reader's Digest and found it truly appropriate: "Death is nothing at all" I have only slipped away into the next room. I am I, and you are you. Whatever we were to each other, that we are still. Call me by the old familiar name. Speak of me in the easy way which you always used. Put no difference in your tone. Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow. Laugh as we always laughed At the little jokes that we enjoyed together. Play, smile, think of me, pray for me. Let my name be ever the household word that it always was. Let it be spoken without an effort, Without the ghost of a shadow upon it. Life means all that it ever meant. It is the same as it ever was. There is absolute and unbroken continuity. What is this death but a negligible accident? Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? I am but waiting for you, for an interval, Somwhere very near, Just round the corner. All is well. -Henry Scott Holland -- Purrt the ghatta Disciple to the Goddess of Chocolate Owner of a full Pedant's licenc/se Goddess of Impertinence Snikkrish the Tearer ********************************************* ********************************************* From: mct@... Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Thu, 22 Nov 2001 00:01:48 +0000 (UTC) Organization: UC Bezerkeley Sender: Megan Thomas User-Agent: tin/1.4.2-20000205 ("Possession") (UNIX) (SunOS/5.8 (sun4u)) Tristaan scribbled: > "Now it's your turn. As I step down, please step up to the podium. > Share your memories so that, in turn, our memories of him will grow > fuller." Me, again. Auslander Snow Grygon doesn't show up here much anymore, but she wanted me to say that she, too, will miss Copper. -- Megan Acolyte to the God of Grilled-SPAM, Apprentice Dancing Barbarian Keeper of the FAQ: http://www.cs.berkeley.edu/~mct/abml/ ********************************************* ********************************************* From: ckrin.nospam@Iamerica.net Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Reply-To: krin135@aol.invalid.com Date: Thu, 22 Nov 2001 03:16:35 GMT Organization: Intermedia iAmerica - http://www.iamworld.net On Tue, 20 Nov 2001 22:51:39 GMT, Tristaan wrote: > >First of all, I realized that tonight is Amethyst's turn on the PC at >home so I will not be able to host this memorial real time. So I'm >posting the introduction now. I'll ask Amethyst to moderate tonight >for me. Hopefully she will agree. I don't really have anything to add that others have not said more eloquently... Copper was usually able to bring a smile to even the most tearful mood... Pardon me while I dig out the dusty bag pipes and find the hill and the sun set... ck doc krin... Worst Tuba in the ABM-L out of practice musicians' band nope, don't need no hickory, dickory, Doc! rest of .sig cut to keep out the kinkies! ********************************************* ********************************************* From: Axel.NoSpam@gmx.de (Axel Kielhorn) Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Thu, 22 Nov 2001 05:54:46 +0100 Organization: The blue wizzard X-Orig-Path: Axel.NoSpam User-Agent: MacSOUP/D-2.4.5 Tristaan wrote: > [Memorial Service] > In the midst of their shock and grief, the denizens of ABMl find > themselves transported through space and time to a quiet moment in the > chapel attached to the Ogre, Elf, and Imp. Most of the decorations in > the chapel appear muted, as if they too mourn the passing of a > significant soul. When I started to read about this service the radio played Pink Floyd's "Wish you were here" and tears came to my eyes. I couldn't have said it better. Copper, I will miss you. You made me laugh when I was close to tears. Now I don't mind the tears because words fail me. Axel ********************************************* ********************************************* Date: Thu, 22 Nov 2001 15:54:35 -0500 From: Heather Baranowski Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Quoth Tristaan: > > [Preface] > > Two things. > > > > First of all, I realized that tonight is Amethyst's turn on the PC at > > home so I will not be able to host this memorial real time. So I'm > > posting the introduction now. I'll ask Amethyst to moderate tonight > > for me. Hopefully she will agree. > > > > Secondly, this thread is dedicated solely to memories of Copper > > Squirrel. For those of you newbies, his posts showed up, usually, as > > coming from "C.M.". Historical research has shown that he is THE > > original member of ABML and, therefore, an integral part of life here. > > He will be sorely missed. Please, if you are responding to a post you > > find in this thread and it is not a personal memory of Copper, change > > the subject before you post. > > > > All posts found in this thread will be archived then for posterity > > both with the FAQ and on the My Family site. Usenet being what it is, > > even though the Memorial service officiall starts at 9PM Eastern US, > > posts are welcome in this thread for the next week until November 27th > > at which time I respectfully ask you to preserve the integrity of this > > thread and refrain from posting to it after November 27th. Heather steps up to the podium. "Like many of you have already posted, what can I say about Coppers that hasn't already been said? He was a good man, and a good friend to so many of us here. And like many (if not all) of you, what I'll remember the most about him is his humor and wit. No matter how bleak my mood, when I would come into ABML and read one of the jokes he'd posted, it never failed to bring a smile to my face. "With this being Thanksgiving here in the US, I have to say I'm thankful for a great many things. But one of the things I'm most thankful for is getting to know Charles Martel and being able to share a small part of his life." Heather raises her glass in salute. "A toast then, to our friend, to our brother-in-heart, Copper Squirrel." -- Goddess of Chocococococolate Goddess of Winter Co-Goddess of Sweets Queen of DeNial Disciple to the God of Flirtation Love deeply and passionately. You might get hurt, but it's the only way to live life completely. ********************************************* ********************************************* From: jai@wico.net (Jai of Li) Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Fri, 23 Nov 2001 01:12:10 GMT Organization: Posted via Supernews, http://www.supernews.com On Thu, 22 Nov 2001 15:54:35 -0500, Heather Baranowski wrote: > >Heather raises her glass in salute. "A toast then, to our friend, to >our brother-in-heart, Copper Squirrel." > In the back of the Chapel a kitsune raises her glass as another tear creeps down to join the thousands that have fallen before. "Good bye Copper" she whispers. A whisp of magic flits through the room, and all the stay clean medallions are now in the shape of a squirrel, copper colored on one side, brass on the other. Those who did not have one suddenly have one, and those who already had one also gain a pendant of lapis in the shape of a forget-me-not. He was one of the first to greet me. And was always ready to take me back in when RL let me stagger through the door. He will be missed. He will be remembered. "To Copper" and raising her glass which is full again, she drains it is one swallow. Jai of Li Daughter of the house of Li Domestic goddess of ABML onee chan to a wonderful flying squirrel President of the ABML happy campers club ********************************************* ********************************************* From: "Nightowl" Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Thu, 22 Nov 2001 19:05:05 GMT Organization: Excite@Home - The Leader in Broadband http://home.com/faster "Tristaan" wrote in message news:skmlvt03fhmcjhv2lj3up427lma9ion9cu@4ax.com... > [Preface] > Two things. > > First of all, I realized that tonight is Amethyst's turn on the PC at > home so I will not be able to host this memorial real time. So I'm > posting the introduction now. I'll ask Amethyst to moderate tonight > for me. Hopefully she will agree. > > Secondly, this thread is dedicated solely to memories of Copper > Squirrel. For those of you newbies, his posts showed up, usually, as > coming from "C.M.". Historical research has shown that he is THE > original member of ABML and, therefore, an integral part of life here. > He will be sorely missed. Please, if you are responding to a post you > find in this thread and it is not a personal memory of Copper, change > the subject before you post. > > All posts found in this thread will be archived then for posterity > both with the FAQ and on the My Family site. Usenet being what it is, > even though the Memorial service officiall starts at 9PM Eastern US, > posts are welcome in this thread for the next week until November 27th > at which time I respectfully ask you to preserve the integrity of this > thread and refrain from posting to it after November 27th. It always seem so strange that you never really miss a person until they are gone. Somehow, someway, you always expect to see them around. Then, when they are gone, you realize what a void in your life they create. Coppers was one of those people. No matter how long you've been away, when you came back to this newsgroup, you could always expect to "see" Copper in the thick of things, whether it was keeping Skippy the Brass Squirrel under control, or posting a few jokes, sharing his thoughts in the Misty threads, or expounding on society today. Too many times, we think, Oh I'll tell that person how much I care about them... later. Then later is too late, and the words are left unsaid. So, we share those memories with each other, to help ease the pain and void we feel, and surprisingly it helps ease the burden. Tris or David, I would like to ask one favor, in this memorial. That a copy of these posts be sent to Copper's mother, so she can see just how much Copper touched each of our lives, and can see her son live again through other people's eyes. With that, Nightowl slips back into the pew. Nightowl ********************************************* ********************************************* From: mct@... Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Thu, 22 Nov 2001 19:13:04 +0000 (UTC) Organization: UC Bezerkeley Sender: Megan Thomas User-Agent: tin/1.4.2-20000205 ("Possession") (UNIX) (SunOS/5.8 (sun4u)) Nightowl scribbled: > Tris or David, I would like to ask one favor, in this memorial. > That a copy of these posts be sent to Copper's mother, so > she can see just how much Copper touched each of our > lives, and can see her son live again through other people's > eyes. I'm saving all the posts in this thread; I suspect I'm not the only one. Since I'm already planning to tidy them and post them to the FAQ WWW site, I can also send the tidied result to CM's mother, too, though someone would need to send me her email address. -- Megan Acolyte to the God of Grilled-SPAM, Apprentice Dancing Barbarian Keeper of the FAQ: http://www.cs.berkeley.edu/~mct/abml/ ********************************************* ********************************************* From: "Nightowl" Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Thu, 22 Nov 2001 19:41:26 GMT Organization: Excite@Home - The Leader in Broadband http://home.com/faster wrote in message news:9tjio0$5ma$1@....edu... > Nightowl scribbled: > > Tris or David, I would like to ask one favor, in this memorial. > > That a copy of these posts be sent to Copper's mother, so > > she can see just how much Copper touched each of our > > lives, and can see her son live again through other people's > > eyes. > > I'm saving all the posts in this thread; I suspect I'm not > the only one. Since I'm already planning to tidy them and > post them to the FAQ WWW site, I can also send the tidied > result to CM's mother, too, though someone would need to > send me her email address. Sounds like a good plan to me, Megan. I suggest you email David Ball, since Vicky kept in contact with Carl's mom. Thanks Megan. Nightowl > -- > Megan > Acolyte to the God of Grilled-SPAM, Apprentice Dancing Barbarian > Keeper of the FAQ: http://www.cs.berkeley.edu/~mct/abml/ ********************************************* ********************************************* From: Tristaan Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Discussion of what to do with memorial posts (was Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001)) Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2001 14:12:18 GMT Organization: PenTeleData http://www.ptd.net On Thu, 22 Nov 2001 19:41:26 GMT, "Nightowl" stomped through my brain with: >Sounds like a good plan to me, Megan. I suggest you email >David Ball, since Vicky kept in contact with Carl's mom. Thanks >Megan. I have her address and have already contacted her concerning sending a copy of these posts. Megan is planning on sending me a copy anyways to include on the My Family site so I'll just forward that on to Copper's mother. Tristaan -- ****************************************** Ogre-Monk, ICQ# 14668166, AIM GTSRobMartin God of Grilled-SPAM™ and Summer, Disciple of Babble Assistant Librarian/Orangutan, Pedant Target, Chief Brute Husband of Amethyst, Father of Charis, Co-Owner of The Ogre, the Elf, and the Imp Violinist for the ABML out-of-practice-musicians band Keyboard Martyr, Keeper of the ABML Cookbook Remove SPAM trap to reply "There exists no dream worth chasing if it cannot satisfy. There exists no god worth serving if he cannot hear your cry" - Circle of Dust ******************************************* ********************************************* ********************************************* From: Beldin Disciple of Aldur Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Thu, 22 Nov 2001 22:33:07 +0000 Organization: Brotherhood of Sorcers Mime-Version: 1.0 Once Upon a Time in alt.books.m-lackey, Tristaan sharpened a new quill and wrote ... > >"I will begin by saying, for myself, I cannot say that Copper Squirrel >and I always agreed on everything. I'm a staunch religious >conservative with a very strong faith and belief. But he also had a >strong faith, if not stronger. Even though our faiths didn't always >mesh, I respected him greatly for his strength and belief." > > >Tristaan It has taken me some time to add a message to this thread. Mainly because so much of what I wanted to say has been said by others. Having just spent the last hour or so in the Google groups archive, I have rediscovered moments long forgotten. I was only able to find those posts from copper_squirrel@yahoo.com as I do not know what he was using previous. Sorry, can't go on. Visit google and relive them for yourselves. He will be missed. He *is* missed. In Memoriam C. Martel - Copper Squirrel 2nd July 1956 - 17th November 2001 ********************************************* ********************************************* From: Beldin Disciple of Aldur Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Thu, 22 Nov 2001 23:02:23 +0000 Organization: Brotherhood of Sorcers Mime-Version: 1.0 Once Upon a Time in alt.books.m-lackey, Beldin Disciple of Aldur sharpened a new quill and wrote ... >Having just spent the last hour or so in the Google groups archive, I >have rediscovered moments long forgotten. I was only able to find those >posts from copper_squirrel@yahoo.com as I do not know what he was using >previous. > Just found this from 1996 Search Result 26 From: coppers (coppers@pacifier.com) Subject: Re: New on Group Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey View: Complete Thread (4 articles) | Original Format Date: 1996/09/26 In paintings in cave walls Kathleen Roesle drew this concept: "\I just wanted to say that while new to this group, "\you are the bunch I have been looking for; "\seriously addicted to M. Lackey books and never "\have anyone with which to discuss! Okay, we've got an impartial witness for Kaptain Fluffy. She's new therefore she couldn't have seen anything. Welcome to our happy (you'd be happy too if you'd drunk as much virtual bheer as we have) group. To the left is the Book And Bridle, our local inn where we gather to talk and swap outrageous li(n)es. To the right is the airfield where Fluffy used up life 7-1/2 through 8-1/2 and where the virtual potluck BBQ is going on, right next to the funeral pyre( complete with stake) where Fluffy will be toasted as soon as he's convicted. Don't worry about misunderstanding what's going on. Y'all just jump in and see where it leads to. (((0))) Copper Squirrel in the Virtual Tree ((((%)))) Coppers@pacifier.com, Portland, OR (((((0))))) ((((((|)))))) (((((#))))) \|/ \|/ @ * @ * @ * @ * @ * @ * @ \|/__________________|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_| In Memoriam C. Martel - Copper Squirrel 2nd July 1956 - 17th November 2001 ********************************************* ********************************************* From: FireRose Organization: ! Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) X-Abuse-Info: Please be sure to forward a copy of ALL headers X-Abuse-Info: Otherwise we will be unable to process your complaint properly. Date: Fri, 23 Nov 2001 00:49:01 -0600 > [Memorial Service] > In the midst of their shock and grief, the denizens of ABMl find > themselves transported through space and time to a quiet moment in the > chapel attached to the Ogre, Elf, and Imp. Most of the decorations in > the chapel appear muted, as if they too mourn the passing of a > significant soul. I have been reading every ones else's posts, and even thought I really do not know many here. I will miss Copper. He had a lot of interesting things to be said, and lots of punny puns and jokes. I am not very good with speaking, I just wanted to add my bit to this. -- FireRose Twin Goddess of Birds Long Lost Disciple to the Goddess of Equines ********************************************* ********************************************* From: Jens-Oliver Tofahrn Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956-2001) Date: Fri, 23 Nov 2001 01:52:39 GMT Organization: T-Online Mime-Version: 1.0 On 20.11.01, 23:51:39, Tristaan wrote in "Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001)": > Tristaan steps down from the podium and takes a seat in the front row > beside his wife. He picks up his daughter and gives her hug. > Tristaan Probably as one of the last ones, J.-O. steps up with a worn face. For a moment, he pauses behind the podium to gather his thoughts. "Well, what can I say... --So many words can't express the way I feel. Carl Mork, the Copper Squirrel, has left a deep impression within me. While so many people pass by without ever touching me, _he_ has left his fingerprint, and I hope I can manage to keep it until I am called to what now is his new home, if possible, forever. "It has not been long since I started participating in ABML--to be precise, it was Januay or February this year. But the Copper Squirrel has been present ever since. He was what anybody can consider to be a permanent, a resident. And on top of it all, he was a permanent source of smiles, laughter and joy. "He was the anchor, keeping our boat on light mooded shores. "He was the rock many of us built their virtual houses on. "He was the spark that lit the candles in the darkest hours. "Where our boat will drift without him holding on, whether our virtual houses will remain steady, how we can keep the candle lit, only time will tell. "But we can, and I guess most of us _will_ at least _try_ to do so, keep him in our minds and his always shared joy within our hearts. "I believe this way we can honor him most: To follow his way and continue his work, to sow the seeds of joy among humankind. "Please, all of us, help keep ABML a place we can call home." J.-O. steps back and silently adds an artificial copper-colored squirrel figure to the memorial. He hesitates, then touches it, and immediately from the figure emerges a squirrel's laughter, with a hint of maliciousness. With a sad smile, J.-O. walks back to fade into the assembled folks. (sorry, no .sig this time) ********************************************* ********************************************* From: patlaney@... (Rhino 7) Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Organization: Randori News - Now Web Capable! - http://www.randori.com - Get Free News! Date: Fri, 23 Nov 2001 03:26:54 GMT >Tristaan steps down from the podium and takes a seat in the front row >beside his wife. He picks up his daughter and gives her hug. > >Tristaan there is movement in the Mad Scientist's previously deserted lair. Subdued hopping, an occasional thump, and the soft sound of glassware being lovingly packed can be heard. After the packing noises cease, the Goat Monster is heard being lead from his pit, the travelling harness girded 'round and checked. Finally, the most difficult task for a single (rather tired by this time) hunchback ... the hearding of the Kilkenny Cats. But even the cats decline to emit more than one or two howls and screeches before they take their positions ahead of the Goat Monster. Eye-Gore hops disconsolately into the chapel. "Massssssssssster will need hisssssssss equipment," he croaks out. "And the petssssssssssss miss him too." With that, seeing that nothing further in the way of explanation is needed, the hunchback returns to his caravan of strange equipment and even stranger creatures. Atop the Goat Monster, he gives a brief wave then slowly begins his final journey. In the O,E&I, however he has left one last project from the lab.... A copper squirrel stands at the end of the bar. In his paws a bowl filled to the brim. A label attached at the base of this sculpture reads: "Copper Squirrel's Every Flavor Cornnuts" Eye-Gore (one last time) -- Goddess of Libraries ™, Pedant in Chief Keeper of the BotRoM ********************************************* ********************************************* Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey From: usenetspamtrap1@... (Dragon, Dancing) Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Organization: yes, it's real Date: Fri, 23 Nov 2001 04:06:50 GMT In article , Tristaan wrote: >Tristaan looks up to the congregation. > >"Now it's your turn. As I step down, please step up to the podium. >Share your memories so that, in turn, our memories of him will grow >fuller." A hesitant, leaf-green dragon steps up to the podium. I haven't been very active here, although I read the group every day. I remember reading this post: http://groups.google. com/groups?hl=en&selm=ol9gtsgito49vr8ebvrs27var0bo1meajo%404ax.com and being awed at the things Coppers overcame in life. I, too, will miss Copper Squirrel's presence here, both the serious and the silly. I suspect the Shadow Lover, in whose embrace Coppers is, will be hard pressed to keep a straight face from now until Eternity. So saying, the dragon brushes a careful paw over the stones around the memorial and a carpet of moss begins to spread in all directions. The curled fronds of ferns appear and, here and there, the triangular blossoms of trilliums. ********************************************* ********************************************* From: "Paige" Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Fri, 23 Nov 2001 13:13:22 -0500 Organization: Bell Sympatico I've had to piggyback this - thanks to the carrier... > > Tristaan looks up to the congregation. > > > > "Now it's your turn. As I step down, please step up to the podium. > > Share your memories so that, in turn, our memories of him will grow > > fuller." I don't really know what to say here. My first post was in Oct 1996 but I didn't officially "delurk" until late 1998. Copper was one of my welcomers. I don't know how I'm going to go - being able to freely read posts without happening upon one of his horrible jokes :-) I don't think there was ever a joke posted that I didn't "boo" and then immediately forward to a dozen people. I wonder if the joker knows how many he has affected with his leaving. Those forwarded jokes were passed on by many. So many of my friends who don't even read here are going to be very upset. I'm starting to ramble. I guess I just don't know how, or simply can't say good-bye. I'm going to miss you Copper. Thanks for the egg cream. -- Paige ********************************************* ********************************************* From: Mummy Az Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Reply-To: manth@... Organization: OzEmail Ltd, Australia Distribution: world Date: Fri, 23 Nov 2001 16:33:41 +1030 I've spent some days trying to think of something original and witty about Copper Squirrel. What can I say that hasn't already been said... Diabetes is a hideous disease, whether it's type 1 or type 2. Copper handled it with humour, as he did every thing else, yet also with a supportive word for me when I was diagnosed. I will miss his ... interesting ... take on life. He was a fixture, one we'll all miss. Az ********************************************* ********************************************* From: Tiyanath@... (Sapphire) Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Fri, 23 Nov 2001 17:20:16 GMT Organization: University of Minnesota, Twin Cities Campus On Tue, 20 Nov 2001 22:51:39 GMT, Tristaan wrote: [snip] >[Memorial Service] [snip] >"Now it's your turn. As I step down, please step up to the podium. >Share your memories so that, in turn, our memories of him will grow >fuller." I've been around this newsgroup for a long time. I originally delurked in September of 1995, though I didn't really start posting regularly until mid-1996 (and have faded in and out fairly often since then). Over all that time, I didn't have all that many conversations with copper squirrel (google could only find about 300 posts containing both my name and his over a 6-year span of time, and about half of them were point-game totals), but I've always read his posts, and always looked for them when I didn't have time to read everyone's posts. The few conversations we had ranged from cat-care to song lyrics to origins of religious practices (there was no field he didn't know *something* about). Currently at least a third (maybe more) of my saved messages from abml are the jokes he posted regularly. I'll miss him. -Sapphire. ------------------------------------- Goddess of Unfinished Projects Goddess of Autumn High Priestess of Mess Co-Founder (with Victoreia and Shaunesay) of the Sisterhood of Mess Lead guitar for the abml out-of-practice musicians' band Officially licensed pedant (Thanks Bookwurm!) Co-President (with Shaunesay) of the Voice Club Wench #858 Madame ********************************************* ********************************************* From: John Oliver Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Fri, 23 Nov 2001 18:46:44 +1100 Organization: The Internet Group (Sydney) Mime-Version: 1.0 On Tue, 20 Nov 2001 22:51:39 GMT, Tristaan wrote: >"Now it's your turn. As I step down, please step up to the podium. >Share your memories so that, in turn, our memories of him will grow >fuller." An elderly Aussie steps up to the podium. He's not very good at public speaking or making jokes so he quotes from a poem in "Against The Odds" by Elizabeth Moon. This for the friends we had of old Friends for a lifetime's love and cheer This for the friends who come no more Who cannot be among us here Good by Copper, you will be missed John ********************************************* ********************************************* From: Ray@... (Ray Almond) Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Fri, 23 Nov 2001 20:09:24 GMT Organization: Who's at anything? Reply-To: Ray@... X-Mail2News-Path: news.demon.net!amygdala.demon.co.uk > Tristaan looks up to the congregation. > > "Now it's your turn. As I step down, please step up to the podium. > Share your memories so that, in turn, our memories of him will grow > fuller." Taking a deep breath, fighting the tendancy to cry - reaching out a hand to the person next to her Ray starts singing softly... Should auld acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind? Should auld acquaintance be forgot, and days of Auld Lang Syne? For Auld Lang Syne, my dear, for Auld Lang Syne, We'll take a cup of kindness yet, For the sake of Auld Lang Syne. And there's a hand, my trusty friend, and gie's a hand in thine. We'll tak' a right gude willy waught, for Auld Land Syne, For Auld Lang Syne, my dear, for Auld Lang Syne, We'll take a cup of kindness yet, For the sake of Auld Lang Syne. Farewell Coppers, may your god go with you. -- Ray Almond ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Chaczun Gille Houer ne taupe de hile Tot-fait, j'appelle au boiteur Chaque fele dans un broc, est-ce crosne? Un Gille qu'aime tant berline a fetard. ********************************************* ********************************************* From: "OhMikeGhod!" User-Agent: Mozilla/5.0 (Windows; U; Win 9x 4.90; en-US; rv:0.9.2) Gecko/20010726 Netscape6/6.1 Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Organization: Prodigy Internet http://www.prodigy.com Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2001 19:59:42 GMT Ray Almond wrote: >>Tristaan looks up to the congregation. >> >>"Now it's your turn. As I step down, please step up to the podium. >>Share your memories so that, in turn, our memories of him will grow >>fuller." >> > > Taking a deep breath, fighting the tendancy to cry - reaching out a hand > to the person next to her Ray starts singing softly... > > > Should auld acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind? > Should auld acquaintance be forgot, and days of Auld Lang Syne? > For Auld Lang Syne, my dear, for Auld Lang Syne, > We'll take a cup of kindness yet, > For the sake of Auld Lang Syne. > > And there's a hand, my trusty friend, and gie's a hand in thine. > We'll tak' a right gude willy waught, for Auld Land Syne, > For Auld Lang Syne, my dear, for Auld Lang Syne, > We'll take a cup of kindness yet, > For the sake of Auld Lang Syne. > > > > Farewell Coppers, may your god go with you. > > At LOSCON this last weekend, I told people about C.M. In the filkroom, I asked if there were any songs about mechanical animals that we could sing in remembrance. The only one that was thought of was "Murderoud little toy" So Copper, we sang about that, even if it doesn't describe Copper very well, except when he was going after spammers like Salv9. "He went zap! when he fired, And cursed when he missed And whirred as he took aim..." ---Mike--- Agent of the dancing barbarians (+apprentice) Keeper of the list Member of the Guild of Free Pedants High priest of liquer-filled chocococolates Rabble Leader Head of the Stern Gang ********************************************* ********************************************* Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) From: "E. Wicker" Organization: Queen's Own User-Agent: Xnews/4.11.09 Date: Fri, 23 Nov 2001 23:37:40 GMT Tiyanath@... (Sapphire) wrote in news:3bfe83aa.241237325 @newsstand.tc.umn.edu: > On Tue, 20 Nov 2001 22:51:39 GMT, Tristaan > wrote: > > [snip] >[Memorial Service] > [snip] >"Now it's your turn. As I step down, please step up to the podium. >Share your memories so that, in turn, our memories of him will grow >fuller." > > I believe I first posted a message to ABML in February of 1996. I don't post much, anymore, but as I have time, I've read the posts, and I have a page at patchworkprose.com listing web sites of some of the ABML residents. Copper Squirrel was a bright light ... enjoyed his posts a lot, even if I can't join in with a pun of my own. I've noticed over the years that my online communities have become family and friends for me, and the events that touch your lives impact me too. Gonna miss Copper Squirrel. It's been nice to see so many old, familiar faces as ABML gathers to mourn his loss and comfort one another. Hugs & much love, Healer Althaia P.S. Hi, Aiglet! I still have my mug. ********************************************* ********************************************* From: webspinner@... (vjean) Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2001 10:30:06 -0800 Reply-To: webspinner@... X-No-Archive: yes Organization: BnB, L.P. i'm sorry. i've tried, and tried. i don't write all that well when it comes to "feelings". CS was here when Fluffy and i started throwing one-liners back and forth at each other lo-these-many-years-ago. he was delightful. i've got many of his messages backed up on CDs in with posts from the past that i treasure, and he was a constant source of snickers that i forwarded around the internet. through him, i was lucky enough to get to meet his mom, completely by accident. i have such a hard time imagining a world without him, but i know that he is in a wonderful place where his sense of the ridiculous will delight a whole new audience. CS, darlin', please look up my friend Dann. you and he can have a roarin' great time while you wait for me. ----------- @vicki [SnuggleWench] http://www.booksnbytes.com Usenet Services provided by: http://www.bnb-lp.com ----------- :The measure of the menace of a man is not what hardware he carries, :but what ideas he believes. ********************************************* ********************************************* From: Claviux from the Crater Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: 26 Nov 2001 08:31:51 GMT Organization: University of Oulu User-Agent: tin/1.4.2-20000205 ("Possession") (UNIX) (Linux/2.2.14-5.0 (i586)) and clears his throat: I'm late as usual, sorry. Others here have said about everything there is to say about Coppers, but here is my contribution. Copper Squirrel was one of those beings that could talk about various subjects without being impolite to others. His puns and witty remarks usually saved the day. I hope ABML will survive his absence... Coppers used to torment me about some Finnish wine he had tasted... I am going to miss him... Lepaa rauhassa Copper Squirrel Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2001 15:58:01 GMT Organization: PenTeleData http://www.ptd.net ASCII Skull: >I don't really know what i'm doing right now... but i've got afew >emails(not to my current email though) and now i heard 'bout copper >and all sorts of things and so i guess here i am >i'm not staying, but i decided to touch base >be well all >you still mean a lot to me >-jim KajiKit: >Tristaan just told me I should come back here to say goodbye to CS... >I wasn't here for that long, and I came and went so many times that I >was 'went' more than 'came' but there was one person who was always >ready to welcome me back with open arms, and a few jokes to give me >some serious giggles... > >It really seemed like he'd been here forever... and now I wish I'd >been here too because that way I'd have more of his bad jokes and food >fights and wise words stored up... > >The idea that he's not coming back is hard to get into my mind. It >feels about as likely as someone coming and taking away the bar from >the Ogre and Elf, or banning foodfights... > >I really don't know what else to say... > >Do they have Usenet in Heaven? If they don't then Copper is banging on >God's door right now demanding they install access ASAP... and if they >do then he's still reading. > >Copper, it's too feeble a word to say that you'll be missed... but you >will be. You were and are a very special person, and there's a place >in our hearts that will be empty for a long time to come. > >Karen AKA Kajikit -- ****************************************** Ogre-Monk, ICQ# 14668166, AIM GTSRobMartin God of Grilled-SPAM™ and Summer, Disciple of Babble Assistant Librarian/Orangutan, Pedant Target, Chief Brute Husband of Amethyst, Father of Charis, Co-Owner of The Ogre, the Elf, and the Imp Violinist for the ABML out-of-practice-musicians band Keyboard Martyr, Keeper of the ABML Cookbook Remove SPAM trap to reply "There exists no dream worth chasing if it cannot satisfy. There exists no god worth serving if he cannot hear your cry" - Circle of Dust ******************************************* ********************************************* ********************************************* From: kem_tek in Oregon Organization: What, are you kidding? Organized? Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001 06:54:22 GMT Copper, I hardly knew you, never met you, and will always miss you. I'm sorry you missed the rain because you missed the beautiful rainbows. -- Axual Faxual Aaron. Really. ********************************************* ********************************************* From: Tristaan Newsgroups: alt.books.m-lackey Subject: Re: Online Memorial: Copper Squirrel aka Carl Mork aka Charles Martel (1956?-2001) Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2001 18:41:41 GMT Organization: PenTeleData http://www.ptd.net As the last member of ABML steps down from the podium, Tristaan looks around and stands back up in front of the congregation. "Thank you all for sharing your memories. During this time of sharing, I feel as if my grief has been assuaged. Copper Squirrel is remembered with joy and laughter. He will always be a part of our lives, our experiences. Always, there will be something that will cause us to say, 'That was just like Copper'" "And now, we bring this service to a close. Please stand for a blessing." As the denizens of ABML rise to their feet, Tristaan looks out with a smile. "Being a Lutheran, Copper Squirrel would probably appreciate a blessing in keeping with his faith. The one I've brought to share is one that my pastor traditionally closed all services with. The wording, I believe, is very appropriate for this occasion. The text is from Numbers chapter 6." "The LORD bless thee, and keep thee:" "The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:" "The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace." "Peace be to you, Copper Squirrel." Tristaan -- ****************************************** Ogre-Monk, ICQ# 14668166, AIM GTSRobMartin God of Grilled-SPAM™ and Summer, Disciple of Babble Assistant Librarian/Orangutan, Pedant Target, Chief Brute Husband of Amethyst, Father of Charis, Co-Owner of The Ogre, the Elf, and the Imp Violinist for the ABML out-of-practice-musicians band Keyboard Martyr, Keeper of the ABML Cookbook Remove SPAM trap to reply "There exists no dream worth chasing if it cannot satisfy. There exists no god worth serving if he cannot hear your cry" - Circle of Dust ******************************************* ********************************************* ********************************************* FINIS