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Phillip Martin Obituary
Martin died Thursday night at a Jackson hospital with his family by his side after suffering a massive stroke a few days earlier, said his niece, Natasha Phillips. He was 83.
Martin's 28-year tenure saw the construction of an industrial park and the $750 million Pearl River Resort, complete with two casinos, a golf club and a water park, on tribal land in rural east central Mississippi, about 65 miles northeast of Jackson. He was praised for creating thousands of jobs. He also set up a scholarship that pays 100 percent of college costs for tribal youth.
"He was a great man and a visionary leader ... He transformed the economy of our Tribe and with it the fate of our people," said Miko Beasley Denson, the current chief who defeated Martin in 2007.
Gov. Haley Barbour also praised Martin's leadership.
"His attention to economic development while preserving the cultural aspects of Native American life in Mississippi will be long remembered," Barbour said in a statement.
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., said Martin "inspired his people" and "created hope and opportunity for Mississippi Choctaws."
First elected chief in 1979, Martin promoted economic development long before the casinos opened. In 1981, he persuaded his hometown of Philadelphia, Miss., to issue bonds to lure American Greetings to an industrial park on the Pearl River Reservation. The operation employed 150-250 people at its peak.
Martin's influence reached beyond Mississippi. He was the first president of the Board of Regents of Haskell Indian Junior College, now Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence Kan. He also served as president of the National Tribal Chairmen's Association and president of United Sou th and Eastern Tribes Inc.
In later years as chief, he faced criticism over not having enough tribal members in upper-level management positions, a long wait for new housing and assertions that tribal schools couldn't compete with the nearby public school system.
Critics also questioned the viability of placing the tribe's two casinos across the street from one another in Neshoba County - the Silver Star casino opened in 1994; the Golden Moon opened in 2002. The weak economy forced the Golden Moon in January 2009 to eliminate hundreds of nontribal jobs and cut operations to three days a week.
Martin spent a decade in the U.S. Air Force, and began a career in tribal leadership in 1957. He was married to Bonnie Kate Bell, a former Indian princess who retired after 52 years with the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The couple had recently celebrated their 54th anniversary.
Other survivors include two daughters, five grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
Funeral services are pending.
Copyright © 2010 The Associated Press
99 Entries
tashaya nelson
November 9, 2017
awesome amazing person
clay cliff
February 16, 2010
Drums Along the Ohio did a preview on chief Phillip Martin in the our last issue. We wish only the best for his famly and friends who loved him. He was a great humanitarian. This was showcased in his long reign of accomplishments as Chief of the Mississippi Choctaw. His dedicated life as a servant, is not only a legacy to the Choctaw and Native Americans across this land but all Americans. May his work and legacy live on, Farewell my brother..Cliff Clay Council Head
Drums Along the Ohio
louvenia meely
February 16, 2010
Our tribe has lost a great man. My deepest sympathy goes out to his wife Bonnie And his two daughters. He will always be with us in spirit and in our hearts. Because of him our lives is better. thank you Louvenia Lewis Meely and Kids.
Joli Bland
February 13, 2010
Boozhu to the Martin family. I was never blessed to meet Phillip but I offer my deepest condolences. Joli Bland
How you can show support
Arnold H. McMillan
February 12, 2010
Halito Phillip, You will be and are missed by the McMillan Family. You're my cousin to both my father and mother. We are proud of your achievements and commitments to the Chahta people. When I was a child and met you, I couldn't help but thought your name was "shilop" which means (ghost) spirit in Choctaw. You always teased me about that, thereafter "Phillip, I shall miss you but one day we too shall journey along the milky way to the stars." Your cousin, Arnold Hendrix (Sonny) McMillan, Akron, Ohio
Sandra Christensen
February 12, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Martin family. Chief Martin was a true leader and inspiration to all. He was a hero having served in the USAF and will never be forgotten. He will be sadly missed.
Rest in Peace
John Gaines
February 11, 2010
Thank you for all your years of Tribal Leadership and the decade that you served in the U.S. Air Force.
THANKS!!!
mike persechino
February 11, 2010
A man that gave inspiration to all that he met.His Guided hand to the future will live forever."persechino family"boston,ma
February 10, 2010
To the Family of Phillip Martin,
I am deeply saddened by the sudden death of your loved one. May you find solace in the following scripture at Psalms 34:18-"God is near to those that are broken at heart, and those who are crushed in spirit he saves".
You can feel that Death can leave a heartache that nothinfg can heal, just know that Love can leave a memory that no one can steal.
Grant Family
Crosby Family
February 10, 2010
Our prayers go out to the Martin family, I would like to express our condolences at this time to your family, I have found the bible to be a source of encouragement; the scripture I would like to share with you is from Revelation 21: 4 “And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.”
Mike & Eva Doyle
February 10, 2010
Chief Martin was a great leader and an inspiration to tribal and non-tribal alike. He vision for self governance was an inspiration to this non-tribal spouse. May he rest in peace and may his people continue on in his legacy.
Deb & Scott Biggers
February 9, 2010
Chief Martin was a great leader and true Southern gentleman. We have been and are still in awe of all of his accomplishments. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Belle Adams
February 9, 2010
A man of virtue and great leadership. He will be truly missed. The Family at BJ'S Country Kitchen
Terry McKitrick
February 9, 2010
During my five years with BIA, my fondest memories are the times spent working with MBCI and Chief Martin. He'll be remembered by many for his vision and leadership.
February 9, 2010
Dear Bonnie and Family, I was saddened to hear about Chief Phillip's passing. I am so sorry for your loss. I cannot remember a time when you and the Chief weren't there to offer my family kind words and support during our bereavements, and now, with a heavy heart I am disappointed that I could not be there for you.
The Chief's influence spread far beyond the reservation and Mississippi. We respect and remember him fondly in Chicago. We should all aspire to perpetuate Chief Phillip's vision.
Sincerely,
Oneda Sam Zeman
Sam-Allen Family (Red Water)
Sarah Douglas
February 9, 2010
I'm a sixth generation descendant of Native American Choctaw TOMA HAJAH. These are my people, my blood. Centuries later the legends and plights of these Ancient Ancestors and their descendants of today remains so powerful. Their pain is my pain, their tears are my tears. My heart aches over the loss of Chief Martin, he not only left footprints in MS but all over this great Nation. He will never be replaced, but he is still with us in Spirit and watching over us from that HAPPY HUNTING GROUND. My love and prayers to the MS Choctaw Nation and all other Native American Nations.
t
anita tucker
February 9, 2010
mrs bonnie , i was so sorry to hear about your lost chief was a very loving and caring man to all that knew him .i have found that this saying really helps out in times of troubles and i hope that it will bring you and your family some comfort like it has me .if tears could build a stairway, and memories a lane,id walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. we will all be together up there in heaven one of these days with our loved ones singing and rejoicing and praising god just like he is doing right now. he will be greatly missed on the reservation but he will always be remembered for the books that he wrote on his life cherrish the memories you had together and know he loved you all very much
Bobby Thompson
February 8, 2010
Chief Phillip Martin was a man of many strengths, wisdoms and many visions for the Choctaw Indian people of Mississippi. He was a mentor to me, however silent it may have been, from the early 1970 era of the Choctaw Self-Determination movement when I served on the tribal council with him. My heartfelt sympathy is extended to the family and the tribal members. He will not be forgotten. Ya-ko-kee Chief!
February 8, 2010
I had the pleasure of working with and for Mr. Martin in the 1970s. I found him to be a visionary for not only the Choctaw Nation but also for the Native American Nations through out the United States.
Even though I lost contact with Mr. Martin I never forgot the opportunity he gave me.
God Bless.
To Mr Martin's family please accept my families condolences and prayers.
mike monarch
February 8, 2010
may all choctaw nation remember the deeds cheif martin has reeped for all. a great man has been taken away from mississippi and america Louisville,Ky mike monarch
KEN & MARY O'DANIEL
February 8, 2010
WE ARE SENDING OUR LOVE,PRAYERS,&CONDOLENCES TO THE MARTIN FAMILY&THE CHOCTAW NATION.
gayle mosby
February 8, 2010
Chief Martin will be missed by many. I had the pleasure of meeting him while I worked at Choctaw Health Center.
I feel the Choctaw Nation and Mississippi lost a great spokesman.
To Ms Bonnie and the family my prayers are with you.
Dr. Sherry Dungan
February 8, 2010
Chief Martin was an oustanding leader of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, a role model for all leaders, and a trusted friend to the non-Indian community. His visionary leadership changed our world forever. It was a privilege to know this living legend. He cannot be replaced as a leader, as a role model, and as a friend. With deepest sympathy for his family,
February 8, 2010
Yakoke, Chief Martin.
Jann Harper, Oklahoma Choctaw
February 8, 2010
May you find comfort and peace with God and family. For Mr. Martin now rest in peace and has no pain you are in all of our prayers.
HAROLD RIGGINS
February 8, 2010
THE CHOCTAW NATION HAS LOST A GREAT CHIEF. THE AMERICAN PEOPLE LOST A GREAT CITIZEN. MAY THE FAMILY RECIEVE PEACE AND CHIEF MARTIN RECIEVE THE REWARD HE WELL DESERVES. HAROLD & SHERRY RIGGINS ALPINE ALA..
Stewart C. Fields Sr.
February 8, 2010
Good Bye, My Brother. R.I.P.
May GOD be with the family
Jeffery Estes
February 7, 2010
So Sorry to hear the news of Chief Martin. I always appreciated everything he did for his people and the community. I will always be grateful to him for providing a great place to work (Silver Star Casino) which helped to shape the person I am today! Thank you Chief Martin, you will be missed.
David Lawrence
February 7, 2010
God be with the tribe and family left behind as Heaven rejoices in receiving one of Gods' children. Earth is blessed by those who care for one another. I am an Oklahoma Choctaw.
Nancy Moody
February 7, 2010
Chief Martin and I had small talk in the evenings at the Choctaw Shopping Center US Post Office. He was always a kind and loving man. I will truly miss our conversations. God truly bless us with Chief Phillip Martin. Love & Peace....
Billy Williamson
February 7, 2010
My deepest sympathy to Mrs. Martin (Bonnie), Patricia, and Deborah. I admired Chief Martin and he did much as leader for the MS Band of Choctaws. I enjoyed working for him and the Choctaw people.
Billy Williamson, former Conehatta Principal
Joe and Lynn
February 7, 2010
Rest in peace Phillip. You did more for your tribe than any Chief ever has done or ever will do. Chief Martin was one of a kind....there are no more like him. He was a friend and will be truly missed.
RONALD SULLIVAN
February 7, 2010
IM SORRY ABOUT YOUR DAD BUNK. HE WAS A REALLY GOOD GUY. SINCERELY JASON CONNORS
sandra duffell
February 7, 2010
i lived in neshoba county for a while and we met chief martin, our thoughts are with his wife and family.
Wayne Vicki Owens
February 7, 2010
we are deeply saddened by the loss of this good man. we met him for two space shuttle missions here at the kennedy space center. he has the best seat in the "house" to protect this STS-130 crew scheduled to launch this week. Our sympathies to the family and his Tribe. His new journey begins...
Anne Walker
February 7, 2010
I had the opportunity to witness Chief Martin's testimony at various gatherings in Washington, D.C.; he spoke for his tribe while keeping in his heart that request for all Native Americans. He truly was one of our great leaders and was called to higher duties. My sympathy to his family, please know he gave and received much love on this earth.
February 7, 2010
My deepest sympathy to your family and friends on the loss of your loved one.
I would like to share the comforting scripture found at Job 14; 13,14,
(please read) which will let you see that he will sleep for a while but he will rise again,them you will be able to welcome him back to life in the near future.
With love
[email protected]
Wilda and Glenn Gibson
February 7, 2010
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Grover Brown
February 7, 2010
I had the pleasure of meeting Chief Martin many years ago. He was a good man, a noble leader and set a fine example for his people to follow. He will be missed and his passing mourned by many. My heart goes out to his family.
Rich Stone
February 7, 2010
To the family of Phillip Martin. I am so sorry for your loss. It sounds like Mr. Martin was a great person and he did so much for his country and his people. I just found out a few months ago that my grandmothers, grandmother was a full-blood Choctaw Indian. My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. Rest in peace Mr. Martin.
Tom & Wanda McAllister
February 7, 2010
If you look in the dictionary for the term " man of vision" you will find a picture of Chief Phillip Martin. He will be sorley missed by the tribe and this state. I will miss my friend very much. May the Lord take you in his hands and deliver you into eternal peace. Our prayers go out to your family>
Judy
February 7, 2010
I did not Know Chief Martin but he did a lots for his people and for the people in towns that was close to him. He was a very smart man. There will never be another Chief like him.
May God Bless his Family. Our Prayers are with you.
ROBERT HOOPER
February 7, 2010
may your spirit rest in peace
Kev
February 7, 2010
So sorry for your loss. God promises that one day death will done away with. I look foreward to that time. Rev. 21:3,4
GRASSCUTTER
February 7, 2010
Sorry to hear of the passing of a man who did so much for his people I hope whoever takes his place does as much
the Native American People have been and are still not trated fairly I am not native american I am a white man who wants ALL trated fair My heart goes out to Mr. Martin's Family May he rest in peace
Janice Usry
February 7, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
February 6, 2010
He will be greatly missed. An unforgettable leader.
Patricia Daly Kelley
February 6, 2010
I have long heard of the hard work and foresight Mr. Martin gave to the Tribe and to Philadelphia. My father was so proud to be from Philadelphia. I know you as his family will greatly miss him as will the entire State of Mississippi. You are all in my prayers. Sinderely, Patricia Daly Kelley, Nashville, Tn.
February 6, 2010
MAY THE GRANDFATHERS BEFORE YOU WELCOME YOU .GREAT ON THIS EARTH -GREATER IN THE SKY. THE GREAT FATHER BLESSED THE CHOCTAW NATION WITH YOU CHIEF MARTIN. CAROL REYNOLDS FLORENCE,ALABAMA
trapperkirk
February 6, 2010
Rest in Peace
February 6, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. He will be missed by all.
The James S. Luke, Jr. Family, formerly of Union, Mississippi
Mike Clum
February 6, 2010
Great men come in all colors creeds, nationalities and races. Thank you for your life
February 6, 2010
God bless the family of Philip Martin. An old friend of nearly thirty years is a second cousin to Mr. Martin, as I am also godfather to his oldest child. My ex-wife in Chicago is a Pima - Maricopa from the Salt River Reservation near Phoenix. Was also a member of a Native American bowling league for three years twenty years ago. As a peaceful and generous people, may you find strength in your time of remembering a great man whose physical presence is with us no longer, but that the Great Spririt will see him in your hearts forever.
Marcus Ellis
February 6, 2010
The Choctaw Tribe and Dear Bonnie: We know, without any doubt, that our Heavens are full of rejoicing this day, as a true Warrior of the Tribe has earned his final reward. The Eighth Judicial District Drug Court would NOT be the Court it is today without Chief Martin's generosity and support; the Choctaw Nation would not enjoy a marvelous Drug Court of their very own, absent his sterling leadership. Rest In Peace, Brother. You have earned it.
Don Vrana
February 6, 2010
God greeted Chief Martin with a "Well done, my son, well done." He was a great man who will be greatly missed.
I enjoyed my two years serving under his leadership as he was always fair and honest with me. My thoughts turn to the people of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians and the entire Indian Nation in this time of their great loss. May Ms Bonnie and family be filled with peace as they reflect on Chiefs' great accomplishments. He was a man that changed the path of a nation.
February 6, 2010
This earth has lost a great leader. As you soar high in the heavens may you know those that you left here will miss you dearly. My love and prayers to his family. Jan Price
John Council
February 6, 2010
Rest in Peace Chief Martin, one journey has ended, and now another begins, until we meet again.
Robin Stands Strong
February 6, 2010
I know Creator holds you gently in his arms and now you soar like an eagle from your bonds here on Mother Earth. May you still watch over your tribe. RIP Chief.
Sadly I Write
Robin Stands Strong
February 6, 2010
Peace be with you all.
glt South Carolina
Glenna Holaday
February 6, 2010
Chief Martin was a great leader and inspiration to his people. I have followed his life for many years now and was consistently impressed by his caring and intelligent leadership. My condolences to his family and tribe, we have lost a great man.
Mary Hart Nichols
February 6, 2010
My sister, Doris Hart, passed away during her employement by the Choctaw Tribe. Phillip was a close friend of hers. He showed our family the deepest sympathy when we visited with him. To his family and Tribal members, relish your memories and know he was loved by many.
The Lewis family
February 6, 2010
Our deepest sympathy to the family for your great loss.
May you be comforted and strengthened in the days to come. (2Corintians 1:3,4)
Melissa Bigby
February 6, 2010
The Choctaw Nation has truly lost a great man. My great grandmother was part of this tribe. I have been to the Choctaw Indian Fair and to the reservation many times. Had it not been for Chief Martin the Choctaw of Mississippi would not have flourished as they have for the last couple of decades. Rest in Peace Chief Martin. Hope to see you again someday.
Billy Brooks
February 6, 2010
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
When I think of Chief Martin I fondly remember the Choctaw Indian Fair. Hope that he is enjoying The Fair In The Sky.
POLISH COLONEL
February 6, 2010
SLEEP WELL , HARD WORKER
Maryanne Krammes
February 6, 2010
May God take him in His arms and let him rest in peace for all the great work he did for his people In Christian love Maryanne krammes (LeniLenapi)
linda barron
February 6, 2010
we are so sorry for your loss. he was a fine man, very kind .we are friends from ocean springs, ms. we send prayres to all the family. we are cherokees , born in north carolina. the barron family
Daniels Family
February 6, 2010
Our condolences to all who loved Mr. Martin. May "the Father of tender mercies and the God of all comfort," along with your dear memories of him, ease the pain of your grief.
February 6, 2010
Dear Choctaw Nation
May his spirit on this earth live on in your dedication to all the peoples of our Creator.
Ossi(short one) Kuhn Kansas
Missionary 1953
Ben Poteat
February 6, 2010
My thoughts are with you and the family and how painful it is to lose your loved one. Please accept my deepest sympathy. May God's love and comfort be with you and the family.
“For this is the will of my Father, That everyone that beholds the Son and exercises faith in him should have everlasting life, and I will resurrect him at the last day.” John 6:40
February 6, 2010
Life on a paradise earth awaits Mr. Martin. There only meek people will enjoy life forever. I look forward to seeing him there
Karl Smith
February 6, 2010
Becky and I want you to know our prayers are with you in this time of such extreme loss, sadness and sorrow. It seems like just yesterday that we were in Philadelphia and I was teaching at Pearl River and playing basketball with all that wonderful group, esp Roger Bell. Thank you for the many blessings I received during those three great years I was there. I became a blood brother and realized what a covenant meant. This was the greatest honor of my life. Phillip was a wonderful, compassionate and inspiring friend. May God bless, comfort and protect you during this trying time. We love you very much.
Lisajo Smith
February 6, 2010
Im sorry for the loss of your loved one. May he walk in love with the elders that passed before him. Rest in peace Chief Martin.
Lisajo, Deni-Maire, and Aliyanna Smith of Cressona Pennsylvania
Dindy Watson
February 6, 2010
My heart goes out to you for your loss. I am part Indian and repest the blood.
Alvin Watson
Sonya Hanson
February 6, 2010
What a brilliant man! I had the honor of meeting him in 1997 at U.S.M. when he spoke with our graduate class. He served his people well. As you can see, once another chief was elected the tide has changed in Philadelphia. My sympathy to his family
David Conley
February 6, 2010
To the family and whole Chotaw Nation:
May the sun shine,the wind blow gentle and the earth prosper for all that this brave indian bought to this world. May the United Tribes except him for what he is and always will be.
Lone Wolf Conley; Cherokee Nation
Charles Edwards
February 6, 2010
The people of PUSHMATAHA, LISMAN and CHOCTAW COUNTY ALABAMA would like to offer our deepest sympathy and condolences to the family of Chief Phillip Martin.
Rest in peace Warrior.
Charles (Big Red) Edwards
Lisman, Alabama
Paula
February 6, 2010
Please accept my sympathy on your loss. The Chief lived his vision and I believe that his spirit now rests with the One Who Made All.
I never met you, Chief, nor have I ever been in Missisissp but I feel that it is a better place for your having been there, giving as you did.
Henryk Zaleski
February 6, 2010
Rest in peace.
Louise Thomas
February 6, 2010
May GOD enrich you with his sweet spirit and love.
Louise Thomas, Raymond,MS.
R Golay
February 6, 2010
To the the family of Phillip Martin - May God give you peace and comfort through his word and the Lord Jesus Christ during this time of sorrow,I know that Phillip will be missed by many.
JeanAnn Pezzetti
February 5, 2010
Although we have never met, I send my deepest sympathy to you and your family. Chief Martin now rests in the arms of the Lord. His work here is done and he has been called home, beyond the sunset. I hate to read that one of our American Indians has passed on. They have so much to offer to us, who came and took from them many years ago. Iam of Seneca decent, and have beloved friends, like family in the Onondaga Nation, Nedrow, NY. From them I have learned alot. My Dad's great grandmother was a princess of the Seneca tribe. I named one of my daughters Christina, in honor of her and to keep our roots alive. May God bless each of you at this time, and give you the strength and peace to go on. Cherish your loved ones memory and he will surely always be with you here, until you meet once more in the hereafter.
Melvyn Wheeler
February 5, 2010
To the family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Diann Tomaschefsky
February 5, 2010
May your spirit rest in immortality with God. Your earthly work is done and your inspiration and help to your earthly brothers and sisters has been remembered well.
God Bless Your Family in their loss.
Heaven has gained another star.
From a Cherokee in North Alabama.
Annette Jackson
February 5, 2010
Please accept my deepest sympathies.During this time of great sorrow,May it help you to know that the hearts of others are deeply touched by your loss.Take strength and comfort and our Creator who cares.
(1Peter 5:7)
Kenneth Wheeler
February 5, 2010
A great man from a good tribe.
Virginia Baysden
February 5, 2010
Years ago, as a result of employment with The Seminole Tribe of Florida, I had the opportunity to meet Chief Phillip Martin and found him to be a progressive and caring leader of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians. This was at a time prior to casinos and when many tribal members were in need. Jobs were lacking as well as other necessities of life. He rose to the occasion and was obviously a vital and effective force in delivering needed goods and services to his tribe. I am sure that he will be missed by all. My sympathy is extended to his family, friends, and tribal members.
Sandy
February 5, 2010
Rest in peace Chief from
Sandy a Maliseet Indian
Sadie Sartre
February 5, 2010
Your trials are over, Chief. The reunion of souls is nigh.
Greg Dover
February 5, 2010
My Uncle Henry thought the world of this man. He was a good man. He did more for the Choctaws than anyone ever has. Rest in peace Chief.
Kim Brasseale
February 5, 2010
My heart is out to your famliy . May you have many blessing.
Kim Brasseale
Quentin Bowman
February 5, 2010
Chief Martin was a great man, his contributions to Indian country have sparked many of our young people to seek new and challenging opportunities in their professional careers. He will be truly missed.
Barbara
February 5, 2010
May he meet our Maker in the sky. The native Americans already knew that the earth was ruled by a spirit in the sky when the first Europeans arrived here. Some of my ancestors walked this area long before the others arrived. We need to keep this alive for our descendants. I know the Chief's family will miss him dearly.
quoVadis wright
February 5, 2010
he was proven to be a great leader.God Bless all your tribe members and his family.wish we could do something to improve the lives of the indians on the reservations in the west.there must be some way americans can help lift each other out of poverty
February 5, 2010
My Husband and I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Martin while visiting the Golden Moon Casino. He was very nice and friendly. Things have changed in the casino since his retirement.He has already been missed greatly, and will be missed more...Iknow by our first impression he was a good and caring person. Our sincerest regrets to his family and friends. Mr. & Mrs Sammy Martin Gainesville, Georgia
martha Brisbine
February 5, 2010
I did not know him personally, but remember him as a youth. He will truly be missed! I admired him so!
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