I've known John Kafentzis for almost 30 years.

When I was on sick leave last summer, his attention and encouragement consistently lifted my spirits.

John has several roles in life -- husband, father, grandfather, teacher, proud University of Montana alum. And friend.

Among other qualities, John can be counted on for four things: 1. Great Montana stories. 2. Entertaining tales of the S-R from the days before I got here. 3. Bicycle talk. 4. Big Sky Conference history/analysis.

And John is also a valued Slice contributor. Has been for a long time.

Here's a story he told me when we got together yesterday.

He had stopped at his office at GU, his kindergarten age grandson in tow.

The lad started visiting with one of John's colleagues (a smart woman with whom I used to work here at the S-R). She asked the boy if he would like a LifeSavers candy.

He declined. He was polite but had something of a WTF expression on his face.

A few moments later, still somewhat puzzled, he told his grandfather that the nice lady had asked him if he wanted a light sabre.

---

---