In Memory of Steve Kitsoulis 

When I first met John, one of the things I found so endearing was the fact that he and his engaging group of friends had managed to keep lifelong friendships intact despite distance and years; a testament to the strength of bonds formed during those long ago high school years, and something quite remarkable given the fact that these special friends were men. You could set your watch and calendar that sometime in the ensuing weeks and months, one or more of them would be in touch, catching up and moving the information forward to the rest of the gang. 

I vividly remember the evening that I first met Steve and Chris Kitsoulis at one of their son’s basketball games. First meetings are often awkward, but there was such a genuineness to Steve and Chris that made me feel welcomed. Steve was really curious about the relationship that John and I had embarked on, but mostly I think he was just looking out for his friend. Steve went into inquisitive mode that night asking all manner of questions, but particularly focusing on the “long-distance” part of the equation, which was quickly becoming a sore subject for me. Suffice it to say that my answers were becoming less diplomatic and refined as the evening wore on.

After the game, Steve suggested that we should follow him back to a more familiar part of Montgomery County to gas up before heading back to the Eastern Shore. On the drive to the gas station, I remember thinking that I had somehow managed to “fail” that important first impression with Steve and Chris, and I could only imagine what John was thinking. When we parked to gas up, Steve walked over and told me not to worry about his zealous inquisition and that he had not meant to cause any undue stress over  an obviously unpleasant subject. He went on to say that Chris had reminded him of a similar situation that they had navigated during their college years apart. And, most importantly, about how well that particular situation had worked out!

My stress level went from 10 to 1 in a quick blink of the eye, and I instantly fell into friendship with two very special people. Steve was simply trying to look after the best interests of his lifelong friend, and Chris came in with the slam dunk of the evening by reminding Steve that love takes care of everything.

Though lives often move in different directions, I remain thankful that John and Steve were able to catch up with each other, and especially for their final conversation a few months before Steve’s passing. There was so much to appreciate through Steve’s engaging personality and the manner in which he showed interest in whatever was going on in the lives of his friends. He was one of those special people who had unquestionably mastered the art of listening with his whole heart, a quality that few can lay claim to. Through intentional engagement, Steve showed everyone how much they meant to him and how much he cared. His consistent approach in keeping these relationships out front and center explains how and why these friendships have endured the test of time. 

I will forever cherish that long-ago visit with Steve and Chris at Daniel’s basketball game, and those priceless words Steve said to me and John that evening as we said our goodbyes. Though I didn’t grow up “Husky” as John and Steve did, I have been captivated through the years by all of the remarkable men who remained lifelong friends across time, distance, and space. It is a testament of the highest order to the uniqueness and depth of friendship, and one that I have been privileged to bear witness to during the past 21 years.

For the rest of my days, I will think fondly and often of that sweet soul we called Kits and will continue to pray for the “peace that passeth all understanding” for Chris and their family.

Huskies Forever,

Denise and John Forbes