His greatest asset was Lucybeth, his lifelong partner. Theirs was a close and loving relationship that shared the same values and mutual respect. Both were always eager to help at a moment's notice to advance the cause of the Central City Neighborhood. It was not uncommon for both of them to come to the street dances held on 400 East between 600 and 700 South. They participated in neighborhood cleanup campaigns and became part of the community. They were both dedicated to serving the less fortunate and did so with dignity.

The governor never forgot a name, including the less powerful. Both he and Lucybeth reached out to everyone. When I ran for City Council I knocked on their door, not knowing it was their home, and Lucybeth, with her radiant smile, welcomed me and offered her support. When I lost, I stopped by to thank her and said, "When you run for office, you find out who are your friends." To which she replied, "No John, it's when you lose that you find out who really are your friends." That's the essence of how they led their lives and the gift they leave us.

---

Utah native John Florez has founded several Hispanic civil rights organizations and has served on the staff of Sen. Orrin Hatch and on more than 45 state, local and volunteer boards. He also has been deputy assistant secretary of labor. E-mail: jdflorez@comcast.net