RIP
Paul “Hammer” Leon (1948-2003)
That’s the word that keeps coming to mind when I think
of Hammer. I honestly can’t think of a more appropriate definition of the
man that we all knew and loved. Everything he did, thought, and said was
with a sincere passion. Wayne and I often smiled when Hammer was the topic
of conversation. To the untrained eye he might be perceived as merely a
voracious consumer of the most popular commodity that his favorite beach
resort had to offer. But as my friend Wayne knew, and pointed out to me, he
truly did fall in love every single day. Of course there’s no point in
denying that his prowess with those he loved so well (and often) was
legendary. Then there’s the obvious financial hit the local economy will
suffer by his absence, which will be shared by not only the lovelies, but
the purveyors of running shoes as well. But that’s another story...
His mug ... sometimes boyish, often self-effacing, always
smiling is an image I’ll always carry, as we all will.
On
Sunday, June 29, many of Hammer’s friends gathered at Wat Chai in South
Pattaya to say a final farewell. Godspeed, my friend, may you rest in peace.
His sincere demonstration of that passion deeply touched
the hearts of both my wife and myself, more than once, and perhaps more than
even he knew.
What I want to give back to him is my gratitude for his
friendship and my sincere wish that he’s found what he’s looking for and
it gives him peace.
As he was loved, he will be missed.
Written by Chris Hoffman & family
