John Franklin Passafiume

West Point, 1955

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Frank Ceglowski Armour on June 10, 2012:

There are at least three levels of bonding association formed between West Pointers...Classmate, Company mate, and Roommate...of these the tightest and strongest bonds are almost always between roommates. John was my roommate during our third year, our cow year... and during that year, we did indeed form a tight bond...and I was privileged to be able to know one the finest persons who have passed through my life. The last time I saw John was at our graduation, and we unfortunately never met again thereafter. But having read the beautiful, poetic tribute penned by his daughter, Michele Brant, I know that John maintained all his fine qualities throughout his lifetime. John subtly and quietly portrayed, among others, the virtues of integrity, kindness and compassion, understanding and tolerance melded together in a humble sense of equanimity. He never mocked or derided, but stoutly defended those who were so disdained. Because of his natural academic prowess, he was able to help out those who struggled...and he always found time to do so. I love you, Pass...we weren't able to have that time by your lake...but maybe soon enough we will. You bring the lake...I'll bring the booze. In the meantime, please pray for me. Frank Ceglowski

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