[Chrysler300] John Hertog's Memorial - July 13, 2008

["Moana" <moanamei@xxxxxxx>]

Being in Sag Harbor to celebrate the life of John Hertog was a most significant event for me.  Arriving Saturday night from Arizona -  Dave Clelland and Brian Cirillo,  fresh from Carlisle for the weekend, picked me up around 10:30 am Sunday at my hotel.  What followed in the next 10 hours was very special.  Dave made plans with Jim Shelly to spend the next few hours casually at Jim and Julia's before the Memorial service at 4:00 pm.  Along the way we met Al Vannice before arriving at the Shellys.  

Jim had retrieved John's famous red restored/fins re-attached 'Finless G' earlier and was cleaning it up to take to the services that afternoon when he ran into a problem "under the hood" - we all know to be a very normal occurrence.  Between Dave and his team of 300 mechanics a few hours later the problem was solved after running around town and finally back to John's basement where they found the steering wheel hoses organized in a neat row.  

In the chapel, at least 100 people plus an overflow in the foyer and doors attended.  As sad as it was, was as fulfilling as it felt to be together with people who came to pray, celebrate and share each one's relationship with a very special person in their respective lives.  There were many - from animal lovers, to former co-workers, friends, family, and of course his passion for the Chrysler 300s  as well as all other automobiles.  Other club members were Russ Vaughn, Don Verity, Dr. Robert Blake and Ted Langeira.  Sorry if I missed anyone else who was there.  A beautiful wreath with the Club logo was done by John's friend Wade.   Hopefully someone took pictures of it to complement the many story boards of John's life from childhood.  Reminiscing continued at Spinnaker's Restaurant where many gathered after the services.

John's loving family and close friends were very warm and cordial.  It was so nice to meet his Mom, Madeline, from the "City" and Aunt from France.  John's Mom is a strikingly tall impressive, loving "Mom" with bright white hair and a most delightful French accent to envy!  Most of us know of John (Jean in French) speaking fluent French when he was on his cell phone with her wherever he was.  Helen Mecagni, John's partner for years, was everywhere to be sure everything and everyone was comfortable.  Helen was John's caregiver during his last year.  Kudos to Helen for her wonderful care to details!

By the end of that day the fact confirmed was that everyone loved and respected this unique person whose philosophy of life was 'love and service above self'.   Seeing the four guys tinker in, under and over with "Finless" was one of the highlights as if John were right there in the middle.  Sag Harbor was busy and colorful with crowds everywhere.  The beautiful weather helped with the atmosphere.  Being with many of the people in his life was a meaningful bonding experience.  In this brief time frame of the day, it summed up John's life in the Sag Harbor he dearly loved.   It was a touching experience and John was with all of us spiritually and will be forever in our hearts.

Sincerely,
Moana Steinberg
Sierra Vista, Arizona


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