Too Soon

We wrote our last boat log about the friends we meet, and we raised a glass to one we lost, Dan.  We wrote too soon.  

We lost another very good friend a few days ago.  This one is a comrade from Puerto Peñasco.  He and Rob became good friends through the jiu jitsu gym that Rob attends and supports in Peñasco, Seven Ronin.  Rob so often relied on Javier for advice, insights on Mexican culture, humor, and help at the gym.  

Javier was hardworking and inspired, always finding new ways to support the gym, its kids’ program, and many other aspects of his community.  He was an English professor and a third-generation oyster farmer (check out his family’s farm, restaurant, and tours here).  He was smart and devoted to community and family.  But what won me over is his clever sarcastic humor and his care for animals, taking in stray cats or neglected dogs.  

Javier and four family members died in a tragic car accident, five days before Christmas.  He was 34 years old.  It was undeniably too soon.  We are raising money to support his wife and 10-year-old son.  You can contribute here.  

Javier was big—in physical size (most would not want a jiu jitsu match against him), in heart, and in energy that he dedicated to helping others.  The space left is huge, and we are trying our best to support the people still here as they figure out how to fill the space.  We are spending some time in Peñasco with those people.  And we will get back to the boat when the time is right.