Posted by ARNY Ferrando on June 19, 2012:

OD was a tremendous man is so many different respects. However, some of my fondest memories go back to our competitive days. In those days, the gynmasts and wrestlers would often travel to competitions together. It was only fitting, since both sports inherently required great "dietary" sacrifice. I would get on the bus, only to see OD with that ubiquitous smile that invariably made you smile by force of suggestion and joy. I would ask him "what are you grinning about?" And his standard reply "'Cause I'm the only one on this bus that can eat what he wants". As our heavyweight wrestler, he indeed ate anything he wanted. Most of all, I remember him being kind, thoughtful, and the best of friends. And of course, ALWAYS happy - infectuously so. Despite his penchant for play, he was never uttered a word in anger or disrespect. When OD left us, the earth has shone less brightly to me. I miss you my brother, and feel honored to have shared some of your time on earth. Arny 'Nando' Ferrando LTC (RET), '78

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