Bill Bywleski, whom I considered to be my best friend, passed away on February 19th at the young age of 53. We first met in 1988 as members of Times Squares. We were part of a group. Bill and I were never that close and I left the group in 1990. Years later I rejoined Times Squares. We met at a pot luck supper and we then became instant friends.
Bill grew up in Buffalo, NY. After graduating from university he went on to become a brilliant architect. His sense of beauty and style was obvious in his work. Then at 40 he lost most of his eyesight and his career was over. Life can be so cruel. We talked every day. We used to go clothes shopping together. Sounds silly I know, but he taught me how to dress. He had such an incredible sense of detail. We spent many a summer Sunday visiting different Brooklyn neighborhoods. I loved his company.
We were also there for each other during some of our darker times. We both suffered from depression and he was there for me always.
I know life goes on, but it will take some time to adjust to living without Bill. Many people have lost a friend with Bill’s passing. He will remain in our hearts always.
—Keith Garrod