We spent only a year

We spent only a year under the same roof at ANU in 1990, sharing an adventure, then shared too few moments after that. The last time a little over a decade ago, after decades. That night it felt like he’d just ducked down the shops and the conversation picked up from an unfinished thought from college.
Such an open hearted lovely man. Smiling and twinkling. Wrapped in a holey knitted jumper he seemed always of the earth, and would have been at home around any fire, at any time in history. Listening, creaking while laughing, making you feel wholly welcome and immediately at ease. It was magnetic and indiscriminate – almost beatific. But he was saltier than that and loved most raucousness on offer too.
We lost touch as people do, but in the moments I thought of him I smiled goofy and wide at the wonder of the bloke. Just like now. I’m sure there will be another conversation some way down the line.
Till then, thanks, Sam.
Heartfelt condolences to all who loved him and were loved. X