RIP MARCUS WALKER >>>

Reporters aren't supposed to feel. We report the news in articles and voice our opinions in reviews with no feelings or bias. That's how it works in textbooks and movies. That's now how it works in real life.

Such is the case with Marcus Walker. He died this morning after a valiant fight with metastatic melanoma. Not only was he the artistic director of the Lakewood Playhouse while it expanded and grew its programs as it staged great community theater season after season, he was my friend. At least I would be honored if he considered me one too. We talked religion, theater and life, well outside the realm of a "source" and a "reporter."

He spiritually supported me during my divorce with kind words and letters of encouragement. And now he is gone. I will miss him. But I am not alone. Theater folks, church folks and Lakewood boosters will all miss him. But most of all, hear dear wife, Lauren, will miss him. We could only pray we have such love as what they shared.

Marcus is gone. We must move on as he is lifted to the Lord. A celebration of his entrance into glory has been scheduled for 5 p.m. Sunday, March 20, at Mason United Methodist Church, 2710 N. Madison St., Tacoma.