It is excruciating to lose someone whom you care deeply about, and who cared for you. That person can never be replaced in your life. Even so, you can treasure their memory and celebrate the life they lived and what they meant to you. Per American Songwriter, Joe Walsh of the Eagles is now going through the process of grieving for a very special friend, Richard "Smokey" Wendell. He passed away at 80 on Sunday, March 2.
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Walsh, now 77, was leading what the outlet called an excessive "rockstar lifestyle." He partied really hard with pals like musician Keith Moon of The Who and actor John Belushi of Animal House. At some point, Walsh knew he needed to dial down the intensity of that unhealthy way of living. Wendell was loyally behind him every single step of the way. Now Walsh is movingly paying tribute to his extraordinary friend and valued road manager on Instagram.
Joe Walsh Made His Sadness Over His Friend's Passing Clear In A Post On Social Media
Walsh wrote, "There are some losses so profound that words seem meaningless. I hope to have some better ones later. I lost my buddy. RIP Richard "Smokey" Wendell."
Fans Felt The Loss As Well
Many posted thoughtful messages of comfort and condolence in an effort to mitigate Walsh's anguish.
"Our hearts are broken. You will live on in our hearts. Rest in peace, power and love our dearest Smokey...."
"Jon and I send our love and deepest condolences to you and to Smokey's family. He was an incredibly kind man and always"
"Sorry for your loss, Joe! Much love from a big fan!...."
'Such a great loss"
"Hold onto the memories and make a mental practice of recalling them. Write down what stands out in every recollection and hold them in your heart and in your mind. I am sorry for the loss of your very close buddy."
"God puts people in our path. Smoky was that people, places, and things guy!! Sorry for your loss. That first step is the hardest."
"...I lost my very best friend of 43 years unexpectedly. That was six years ago on March 2. It's like a piece of me died, too. I can empathize with the pain of your profound loss...."
Richard 'Smokey' Wendell Led A Life Of Service And Significance
According to American Songwriter via Wendell's obituary, his amazing and industrious life was dedicated to others. He worked for the U.S. Secret Service and in law enforcement, then changed career paths and got into the entertainment field. Wendell guarded President Richard M. Nixon and assisted John Belushi "to help the Animal House star stay clean."
"Smokey" Wendell must have been a truly unique individual. It seems like he touched many lives in lasting and important ways. Hopefully, Joe Walsh can find a measure of peace in that thought.
