From the Editor: In Memoriam: Jeffrey Unger

  Jeffrey (Jeff) Unger was born in West Reading, PA, April 19, 1952. He married Pamela Fenstermacher Unger in April of 1977. His sudden and unexpected passing this past fall shocked an entire community. But his fond memories continue to be cherished.   If you will indulge me for a few moments.   I met Jeff nearly 40 years ago. He was the most understanding individual and had no expectations of our friendship. My primary goal in life at that time was to complete my education and launch my career. He managed to capture my heart and convince me that marriage and children would not dampen my goal to be successful as a physical therapist.   This man was as honest and caring as anyone I know. While I’ve always considered myself to be a very strong woman, this man grounded me on a daily basis — he was my rock.   We raised two very compassionate and successful children (Stephanie, companion of Carlos Vasquez, and Jeremy, husband of Caitlin) and have two granddaughters (Sophia Jane and Madeline Anne) who were the love of his life. A few of you within my professional family have had the opportunity to meet him. I was happy to share the genuine love we have shared for all these years.   Jeff lived in Kutztown, PA, most of his life. While he attended Hiram Scott College in Nebraska and Kutztown University, he chose to forgo his college education and become a professional photographer. Living in a small community, he did all kinds of photography: portraits, weddings, sports, and public relations. He was most proud of his sports photography, having photographed National Football League players Andre Reed, Bruce Harper, Doug Dennison, and John Mobley, all of whom played football at Kutztown University. Secondly was his PR work, having photographed President Clinton, Barbara Bush, both President George H.W. and George W. Bush, Margaret Thatcher, Colin Powell, and Michael Eisner (to name a few). He started each day trying to make someone’s life happier by telling jokes and using humor to draw out that special smile. As his photography business began to transform, he filled his days with handiwork. Not only was he a talented photographer but an excellent carpenter. The past few years he cherished the moments when he could spend hours photographing his granddaughters.   Jeff loved life and lived it to the fullest. When he was at home there was always a dog at his side, all of which absolutely needed us to rescue them. At one time we had two Old English sheepdogs and a shepherd mix. His love for dogs led him to research training; he was absolutely brilliant at training family dogs. He had just finished training Ziva, our newest puppy, a Bernese mountain dog, at the time of his death.   Jeff took his humor to the golf course and the ski slope, his two favorite pastimes. (This man convinced 16-20 grown men to be judged on their attire each day prior to heading out to golf on their annual golf trip, scoring points daily for awards at weeks end.) He was also known to spread his Christmas cheer to all the town merchants and door-to-door delivery personnel to brighten their day during the hectic holiday season.   The happiness and love he shared with others always went to his family first. One last thought, please remember to tell or reach out to those you love frequently. Life is a gift to be lived to the fullest. Jeff and I did live and enjoy life! Pamela G. Unger, PT, CWS, FCCWS, is a member of the TWC editorial board.