[not merle_ posting]
merle_ passed away. He was found by the police on Monday May 13, 2013 after his wife called to say he was missing. He died at home, in his new apartment, apparently while sleeping peacefully.
He was 41 and is survived by his wife who loved him and many friends who are mourning his loss.
There is a memorial planned in Walnut Creek, CA on Saturday May 25, though some details are still being arranged.