From Victoria Huckenpöhler 
James Gardner "Huck" Huckenpöhler
a.k.a. Professor Porter
Founder of The National Capital Panthans

My dear family and friends, both ordained and lay -- I am deeply saddened to tell you that my precious husband, James's father, and friend to us all passed away this morning around 10 AM (August 26, 2022). I had stepped out for about ten minutes, and when I returned, as is so often the case when someone close has left, he was gone. He looked very peaceful and had a sweet smile. I was quite OK until the undertakers took him away. 

It is almost inconceivable to imagine life without him after 57 years. However, I have to be thankful for all we had, in particular our son of whom we are so proud. A little note of amusement, too, is that he loved our co-op community so dearly that I heard him say many times: "the only way I'm ever leaving this place is feet first." I'm happy that his wish was fulfilled.

Huck certainly believed in a higher power, but was not enchanted with organized religion. Here's another fun story: as a youngster Huck was hauled each week to Sunday Mass by his Dad. Every sermon included a strong note of encouragement for a hefty donation to the collection plate. Finally, Huck decided he would deduct a nickel from his intended donation each time the Priest mentioned money. He delighted in telling me that after a few months the Priest owed him 25 cents! 

For this reason we are not having a service, but a very quiet private burial. Taking a leaf from the book of his friend in Chicago, Joan Bledig, our son and I will, when we have recovered from the last traumatic months, have a gathering later on to celebrate our precious one. We will keep you all notified.

I appreciate your support over the last months, and ask that you keep us in your prayers. Coming months will surely be very hard, but I intend to face them as stalwartly as I can. Huck's Aunt Eileen, to whom I was very close, used to say of herself: I'm a tough old bird! I hope to honor her by following in her footsteps.

Lovingly,
Victoria

~ The Panthan Newslettert #303