I was shocked and broken-hearted this morning to learn that a Louisville friend of mine, Chris Manion, has passed away. I had heard from a mutual friend two days earlier that he had contracted pneumonia after returning home from a cruise, and that he was in the hospital; the pneumonia claimed him later that weekend. This was shocking because the illness was unexpected but also because Chris was young (41, I was told). Chris was friendly and lively, with a great sense of humor. I met him through the little running group I belong to (the local chapter of Frontrunners); he wasn't very active in the group in the last couple of years, but he would occasionally appear on Saturday mornings and run with us or at least have breakfast with us. I would also see him at parties, and also at Voices concerts (he sang with that chorus). He had many friends who will miss him greatly. I will certainly miss him.
Here is a picture of him that friends of his have been sharing on Facebook.
Prayers for Chris, his family and his friends!
[updated 2012-12-08]