I remember well, the time I got to spend with Damon and Bob. It seemed we were destined to meet. Since I was a little boy, I listened to Mario and dreamed that one day I would be able to sing those songs with the same passion that I saw in his eyes. Little did I know that one day, I would call his son my friend.
Damon was an easy man to befriend because he was sincere and open as anyone I have ever known. I remember talking to him about Mario and watching him light up as he described his fathers God given gift and the deep devotion he felt for the legacy that he had inherited. We swapped stories about Mario. Damon told me of how he saw his father touch the hearts of millions, and I described how his music touched mine. But Damon was more to me than the son of Mario Lanza. He was a gentle soul that was eager to lend a hand. A man who's devotion for his Father was just as strong as his devotion to his friends.
I remember singing at a concert and Damon and Bob coming to see me. I chose a few Lanza classics as a respectful tribute to Mario and was so nervous that Damon was in the audience. I sang with all my heart and I looked out and saw Damon smile and I knew that he had accepted my tribute as a gift to him and the memory of his Father, for we both knew there was only one Mario Lanza. That day Damon and Bob presented me with the book "Be My Love." I never forgot their kindness and I will forever cherish their friendship.
Damon, I celebrate your friendship and grieve for those who did not have the privilege of knowing you. I know that my life is richer for having known you even if it was just a short time. I feel a deep joy as I write because I know you are in heaven with your father and filled with beautiful music, and I also feel a sadness because I will miss you.
May the Lord Bless and Keep you
May he make his Spirit to Shine upon You
And Until We Meet Again
May He Hold You in the Palm of his hands.
