I have been waiting to see if there will be an obituary posted for Gene Paleno and so far there hasn’t been one. I would like to add these comments about a remarkable man I was fortunate to know.

I was lucky to be a part of a Hospice grief support group that Gene also attended. We met weekly. I always looked forward to seeing the smile and twinkle in his eye which was there every time no matter what.

Gene gave us the best advice, some that I have tried to follow: when you are down, pick up the phone and call someone and ask how they are doing. Listen to them and try to support and help.

He encouraged us to volunteer and said when you are helping others you don’t have time to feel your own sadness. It reminded me so much of a sampler my mother had on her wall — “Look towards the sun and the shadows will fall behind you.”

I know that Gene was involved with many projects and groups in Lake County, always trying to make life better for his community.

He was a positive force for good, always a gentleman, but someone who would be adamant about what was the right thing to do.

He had such an impact, for seniors especially, it would be fitting if something could be dedicated in his memory. A nice bench in the park perhaps.

Gene made a difference. I am grateful to have known him.

Carolynn Jarrett lives in Clearlake, California.