Last April, Wabash College celebrated the retirement of a legendary figure at the College - one each "Johnson, Robert H." Coach Johnson stepped down after a superb career coaching our runners and even more importantly teaching them to be men.

For many of those years, his wife Pat was by his side - her influence every bit as far-reaching as "Coach". Their children grew up with a big playground called Wabash College. They roamed as freely through the Arboretum as many of Rob's cross country runners.

We received word yesterday that Pat had passed away after a long, courageous fight with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. Her suffering is over.

Of course, Rob and his children are the ones who are hurting the most - keep them in your thoughts and prayers. "Spouses" and "Moms", regardless of the change in age, title, time, or address, are special and remain so forever.

We wouldn't want it any other way.

Photo: Pat Johnson with her daughter at Rob's retirement party.