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I'm a latecomer, compared to the rest of these fine people here, but I have learned many valuable tips and tricks from this site. Steve and Barb...thank you so very much. Sunset
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I have learned much here. Thank you, Steve.
-------------------- Brad Ferguson See More Signs 7931 Wornall Rd Kansas City, MO 64111 signbrad@yahoo.com 816-739-7316 Posts: 1230 | From: Kansas City, MO, USA | Registered: Nov 1998
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Though I don't post much, I do come here often and have since the 1990s. This is my place to come visit others in the trade and learn something new with every visit. It is incredibly sad to hear this news. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
-------------------- Pam Eddy Niles, MI ple@qtm.net Posts: 460 | From: Michigan | Registered: Dec 2000
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Steve and Barb, As Donna says you may have strayed but you will always be here..
You are timeless, and your spirit and generosity and humor are always going to live with each and everyone of us; nothing changes but we will miss you seeing you arriving at our houses to visit! You made many trips, even to Australia. For this and all the connections you helped make possible, you are very much loved and cherished.
I hope you are free from pain, and as others say, we all are going to another place, as that is life's journey. I don't believe for a minute that death is an end but a beginning into a higher consciousness that we cannot fathom the glory and magnitude of, only imagine.
It is getting close to the time where we lost Michael Boone and then there is Timi, David Drane, Bushie, Marty, and circle of life will continue, but please know that we are always going to be together and here for Barb as she is for us.
Love and prayers, Deb
-------------------- Deb Fowler
"It's kind of fun to do the impossible - Walt Disney (1901-1966) Posts: 5373 | From: Loves Park, Illinois | Registered: Aug 1999
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Thank you both for letting me hang out here. For years, Letterville has been my first stop in the morning with a big cup of coffee, and have learned a lot. You are both in our thoughts and prayers. Tony
-------------------- Ace Graphics & Printing Camdenton, MO. USA
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I'm very sorry to log on and hear news like this. Steve and Barb have been part of my life for almost two decades now. I've learned a bunch from their efforts, made many friends and have even stayed in their house. I wish the Shortreed family the best as they go through this.
-------------------- David Harding A Sign of Excellence Carrollton, TX Posts: 5084 | From: Carrollton, TX, USA | Registered: Nov 1998
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Love you, Steve. Thanks for keeping us all together here.
-------------------- John Byrd Ball Ground, Georgia 770-735-6874 http://johnbyrddesign.com so happy I gotta sit on both my hands to keep from wavin' at everybody! Posts: 741 | From: Ball Ground, Georgia, USA | Registered: May 1999
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Wow, everyone else said it so eloquently! I've hung here since 3/2003. I've had the pleasure of shaking your hand at several events I've attended. Our best to Steve & Barb
""Good judgment comes from experience; and a lot of that comes from bad judgment" - Will Rogers Posts: 3484 | From: Beautiful Newaygo, Michigan | Registered: Mar 2003
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My heart is aching from this news. Words can't convey the impact that knowing Steve and Barb has had for me. Life long friendships, valuable knowledge and some wonderful experiences. Loads of laughs, tears and heartfelt feelings from one little website, Steve's brainchild and the caring efforts of two very special people. I have always been, and will continue to be grateful for having crossed life paths with Steve and Barb. Love and Peace Dear Friends. ~ nettie
-------------------- "When Love and Skill Work Together ... Expect a Masterpiece"
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I can't remember how I first heard about this site, but I remember finding it hard to believe it was true. Bac then we had numbers and I was eighty something. There were folks that I'd chat with and eventually meet and find them to be who I expected in real time. The friendships here have been tremendous, and all Steve and Barb's dream to make a virtual letterhead meet when computers were new to many of us and our connections were dial up. Steve, thanks again for allowing me tone part of your dream!
-------------------- The SignShop Mendocino, California
Making the simple complicated is commonplace; making the complicated simple, awesomely simple, that's creativity. — Charles Mingus Posts: 6712 | From: Mendocino, CA. USA | Registered: Nov 1998
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Steve, I have never gotten to meet you but I can remember when you were still making signs, you were the subject of an article (possibly two) in SignCraft many years ago. I can still remember your style of lettering and bold colors. You are a master.
This site has been a bookmark on my system for as long as I have had internet with dial-up. I have seen various topics come and go but you always handled touchy topics wisely and honestly.
Thank you for all you have done for this craft. I know there have been numerous sacrifices you and Barb have had to make and I just want to say Thank You brother.
-------------------- Curt Stenz Graphics 700 Squirrel Lane Marathon, WI 54448 Posts: 590 | From: Marathon, WI 54448 | Registered: Dec 1998
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I've been hesitating to comment because I don't know what to say. Steve, your impact on the Letterhead community will never be surpassed. We've had many late night conversations about the biz, music, and the strange and wonderful people you've brought together through Letterville. You laid out a heavy story at the campfire one night at the Moncton meet and we're all fortunate to have every moment we share with you. Whatever the future holds for us, the memories and the journey have been enhanced by your efforts and you and Barb will always be in our thoughts and prayers....
-------------------- www.signcreations.net Sonny Franks Lilburn, GA 770-923-9933 Posts: 4115 | From: Lilburn, GA USA | Registered: Feb 1999
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All of the above posts say so much that I feel. Although I have drifted to another career path my years as a Sign Painter has defined me so much and Steve and his contribution are right there with Signcraft Magazine as old friends that I could lean on and grow. Steve & Letterville are "icons"! To have shared stories & laughs with Steve & Barb are memories that well remembered & priceless. None of are as bulletproof as we once were and I hope Steve will draw strength from these posts and receive our prayers.
-------------------- Rich Stebbing RichSigns Rohnert Park CA 707-795-5588 Posts: 755 | From: Rohnert Park, CA | Registered: Nov 1998
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Wow, this really is some sad news. I haven't been around for some time. I remember meeting Steve and Barb a few times here in CA. We had a few good conversations and laughs. One that clicks was about ole Ted Bukovscak who had sent Steve some feathers from his chicken Gertrude, I laugh now cause I met Ted on my journey and saw that chicken. I really admired his lettering skills. Like many of you thru this site, it was very beneficial, from the wealth of knowledge and also it helped me back in '98 to meet a lot of you in person when I went cross country. Barb, I know to some might think this is wrong but to others and I have done this with some friends and people close to me who were on the way to the new promised land was to video record them and ask away questions or let them talk and say things that come to mine or if you could say something to someone would be the time. We all prayer for you Steve and hope the best for you...
-------------------- aka:Cisco the "Traveling Millennium Sign Artist" http://www.franciscovargas.com Fresno, CA 93703 559 252-0935 "to live life, is to love life, a sign of no life, is a sign of no love"...Cisco 12'98 Posts: 3576 | From: Fresno, Ca, the great USA | Registered: Dec 1998
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Like it has be said earlier by Frank Wiess "Letterville is an inspiration to us all. Steve and Barb, you should take great pride in your accomplishments here." I for one would not have taken on projects, learned the business of signs and stretch myself, as I am self taught, if it had not been for this place. Steve,you and Barb will always be in our thoughts and prayers also.
-------------------- Mark Pinkse Laird Signs Iron Bridge ON. Canada Posts: 52 | From: Iron Bridge, ON Canada | Registered: Nov 1999
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Sad news to hear. I would like to add my feelings of gratitude and appreciation for all you have done for our trade. It's not many people in this world that can look back and point to an influence and impact on the world comparable to the one you have made. Words are not adequate to express the depth of emotion. Peace.
-------------------- Brian Oliver Paxton Signs Fort Collins, CO paxton@peakpeak.com www.paxtonsignsofcolorado.com Posts: 237 | From: ft. collins, colorado,usa | Registered: Mar 2001
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This is very sad news. Together Steve and Barb has brought so many people together, not only from this country, but from all over the world. That is some accomplishment to be very proud of. God bless you both, Steve and Barb. May the jouney of your soul endure in peace and happiness for eternity.
-------------------- Signs by Alicia Jennings (Mudflap Girl) Tacoma, WA Since 1987 Have Lipstick, will travel. Posts: 3812 | From: Tacoma, WA. U.S.A. | Registered: Dec 1999
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What sad news. I wish I was better with words to express my feelings. I've never had the chance to meet you in person, Steve and Barb, but I feel like you're old friends. I've often thought that when my time comes I'd want to be able to say that I'd accomplished something worthwhile during my short stay here, that I'd contributed something to the world and would be remembered for it. The feelings expressed by all the people here prove that you can certainly feel assured that you've done that and will be missed by many friends.
-------------------- dennis kiernan independent artist san francisco, calif, usa Posts: 907 | From: san francisco, ca usa | Registered: Feb 2010
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I will always have fond memories of meeting Steve and Barb in KC in 1983. You have both cone well in keeping the spirit alive and you are in our daily thoughts.
-------------------- Kent Smith Smith Sign Studio P.O.Box 2385, Estes Park, CO 80517-2385 kent@smithsignstudio.com Posts: 1025 | From: Estes Park, CO | Registered: Nov 1998
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So sorry to hear about your battles, Steve. I never had the opportunity to attend any meets or to get to know you. But I will remember your great contributions to the world of signs. I am certain Shep would join me when I say, May you be in Heaven thirty minutes before the devil knows you left. Peace and Prayers. Don
-------------------- Donald Miner ABCO Wholesale Neon 1168 Red Hill Creek Dobson, NC Posts: 842 | From: North Carolina | Registered: Apr 2006
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Truly sad news to hear! I'm feeling very fortunate th have spent time with both of you, and applaud the contributions that you both selflessly made to promote our craft & forever friendships. We will all be together someday, beyond here, for that Great Letterhead Meet that I know Steve will orchestrate! Until then thoughts & prayers to both of you!
-------------------- Colleen Henderson Signs Now, Thunder Bay, ON signsnow@tbaytel.net Posts: 140 | From: Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada | Registered: Jun 1999
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IT was a great day at your home with steve barb, boone, bushy, laura, and a host of other fine people. I got to hear first hand the "eh" and "aboot" for the word about. Being there is a highlight. That is how you and the gang will be remembered by every one..
-------------------- Leaper of Tall buildings.. If you find my posts divisive or otherwise snarky please ignore them. If you do not know how then PM me about it and I will demonstrate. Posts: 5273 | From: Im a nowhere man | Registered: Jul 2001
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I thought I'd check in on this snowy day to catch up on things here.
I'm so sad to see this news about Steve. I met him and Barb in Atlantic City in '95. They were like instant friends and were over the moon about Letterville. I got my first computer shortly after that and the first site I went to was here.
We've met many times since and, of course, become great friends.
To Steve and Barb.....we all need to make the most of the days we have left and find the beauty and joy they hold. You both have enriched so many lives, in so many ways. I feel privileged to have been one of them.
Peace
Joe,
Makin Chips and Havin Fun!
-------------------- Joe Cieslowski Connecticut Woodcarvers Gallery P.O.Box 368 East Canaan CT 06024 jcieslowski@snet.net 860-824-0883 Posts: 2345 | From: East Canaan CT 06024 | Registered: Nov 2001
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Words are hard to find through the pain I am feeling right now.
-------------------- Bruce Bowers
DrCAS Custom Lettering and Design Saint Cloud, Minnesota
"Things work out best for the people who make the best of the way things work out." - Art Linkletter Posts: 6451 | From: Saint Cloud, Minnesota | Registered: Jun 1999
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Such sad news. My prayers are with you and your family and the great extended sign family you created here. You were really a pioneer in the online community and helped save the love of our craft. That will go on forever.
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I agree with Sonny. I just don't know what to say. Prayers from all of us here and Big HUGE HUGS to all!
-------------------- Jane Diaz Diaz Sign Art 628 W. Lincoln Ave. Pontiac, Il. 61764 815-844-7024 www.diazsignart.com Posts: 4102 | From: Pontiac, IL USA | Registered: Feb 1999
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Lots of love from me as well. You guys are a big part of my life. I think I'm not alone here when I say that the Letterhead movement has changed my life, had a huge impact on me and even my children. Steve and Barb have been there from the beginning for me. Keeping yins in my thoughts and prayers. Love....Jill
Posts: 8834 | From: Butler, PA, USA | Registered: Jan 2001
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Been a long time since I've been here. Would just like to share my feelings on such a sad occasion.
Steve went out of his way when I joined to help me. One of the most caring and friendliest people I've met on-line in a long time. Never had the pleasure of meeting him or his wife in person, but this place gives you the feeling just the same.
I'm sure you'll be lettering along side of Mike, Rick and some of the other greats.
Take care and for the rest of the family..... you're in our prayers.
-------------------- Gino Reading, PA Posts: 1 | From: Readfing, PA | Registered: Dec 2012
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Hope you are not suffering, and to you and your family you are in my prayers. I never had the pleasure to meet you or your wife but have learned a lot from your forum and thank you for having me!
-------------------- Brian Vinyl Signs Pittsburgh, PA. Posts: 159 | From: Pgh., PA | Registered: Mar 2009
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....Dawn & I cherish the memory of the wonderful time we had rocking out with Steve "onstage" (the Shortreed's back deck)....... ......first, it was a great day panel jammin' with old friends and new; Jon "Bushie" Butterworth blasting out panels with amazing speed and skill....I still don't know how Steve & Barb, who were graciously hosting Australian visitors, somehow also managed to put together an impromptu meet! ......Steve showed us how he does what he does so well, a perfectly rendered script off the brush, one stroke.....beautiful....... .....and then we played some music, as loud as our equipment (and Bushie) would allow.....it was pure magic!
....peace be with Steve & Barb.....
-------------------- Steve Lane jackflashsigns 19894 Yonge Street Holland Landing ON (905) 886-9656 jackflashsigns@rogers.com Posts: 34 | From: Holland Landing ON (serving the GTA for over 30 years) | Registered: Jul 2005
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Steve & Barb, I'm so sorry to hear such sad news. Your creation, Letterville, has been such a tremendous help and source of enjoyment for me. May God bless you as you have blessed all of us with your online community. My prayers are with you.
-------------------- Bob Moroney The Sign Guy 310 Club Valley Drive Falmouth, MA 02536 508-259-6297 Posts: 216 | From: Falmouth, MA | Registered: Jul 2008
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Many have strayed from the sign business for one reason or another, but Letterville will always be home and that is because of the hard work, dedication and the love of signs and people that Steve and Barb has contributed to this world. The world is truly a better place because of you. Thoughts are with you...
-------------------- Troy "Metalleg" Haas 626 Kingswood Dr Evansville,In 47715 Posts: 1100 | From: Evansville,Indiana, USA | Registered: Nov 1998
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My heart goes out to you. Lifting you, Barb and your whole family up in prayer during this time. My life has been enriched from knowing you and Barb. So thankful that you and Barb stayed with us on your way to a meet in Florida. I have learned many new things and been encouraged and helped by so many who came together through you and this site and have many new friends and have traveled to many meets and across the pond to 2 meets which I would have never done otherwise. May God's peace and comfort encircle you now. Love you, Judy
-------------------- Judy Pate Signs By Judy Albany, Georgia USA 229-435-6824
Live simply...Love generously...Care deeply...Speak kindly...Leave the rest to God. Posts: 2621 | From: Albany,GA,USA | Registered: Nov 1998
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My father passed away about an hour ago. I just wanted to thank everyone for the support and friendship that you have given both my parents over the years.
This community has ment so much to my dad over the years and we can't be thankful enough for all the stories and love that has been sent throught this.
-------------------- Barb Shortreed 144 Hill St. E. Fergus, Ontario Posts: 2374 | From: Fergus, Ont. | Registered: Sep 2000
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-------------------- “Did you ever stop to think, and forget to start again?” -Winnie the Pooh & A.A. Milne
Kelly Thorson Kel-T-Grafix 801 Main St. Holdfast, SK S0G 2H0 ktg@sasktel.net Posts: 5496 | From: Penzance, Saskatchewan | Registered: May 2002
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