Thursday, May 26, 2022
I really blew it this time. If I had even once gone to see Clayton in all of the dozens of times that I said "I've got to see him," I would be just as sad but much less guilty than I feel tonight.
Claty and I worked a few jobs together for the Carpenters and Millrights union back in the early eighties between the time he worked for F&G and the State. I`m not here to say he was one of the best workmates I ever worked with, he WAS the best work partner I ever had! He was one of the best mechanics I ever worked with, always willing to share his knowledge, and always delivered it with a good helping of humor as well. And Claty's friendship didn't stop at the mill gate. We shared all too few times times together with Colleen and the girls in Winterport where we were treated like family. I'll never forget sitting up til midnight to the sounds of AC/DC blasting in the background!
We all lost a great man and my heart goes out to his family and the multitude of friends Clayton is leaving behind. I have my memories and lessons I learned from him that ill carry with me forever. I would really have loved to hear what his comments to this memory might have been. But I think it would have been something like, "Well I'll be go to hexx!!"
My love to all of you.
Dave Mele
