I’d known Jack Wiler since the 80s when I first moved from NYC to Hoboken, NJ. He was a friend of a friend and we’d see each other at local gatherings and friend’s parties. In Hoboken, there is a very large and widespread artists circle, and as local artists, we are all part of something great. Whenever there is an event or opening, most of us always show up to support each other. Over the years, some have moved on to other cities or out of Hoboken into Jersey City, and we don’t see each other as often as we’d like. There’s also an even bigger artists circle growing in Jersey City.
A few years ago, I was fortunate to design (and I still maintain) the website for Cavankerry Press, and noticed among the published authors, Jack Wiler. I was thrilled to know I’d be helping one of my friends, from long ago, who I hadn’t seen lately and as the months and years came along, I saw Jack occasionally, because we now had a new circle of friends and colleagues. Then about 6-8 months ago Jack and I met to talk about his own personal website for his poetry, and he asked me to become his webmaster, which I did, gladly.
On Tuesday, October 20, 2009, Jack Wiler died. Knowing that he had been ill for a few years, but better lately, it wasn’t that I thought this day would never come, I just wasn’t expecting it to happen now. This was the first person from my circle of friends to die. I know it seems hard to believe, but it’s true. I’ve even had friends say to me, “You were in Hoboken during September 11, didn’t you know anyone that died, that day?” Actually, no. I will say that something inside me died that day, but no, I didn’t know anyone who worked in the World Trade Center or anyone who was there that day.
Now, of course I’ve had some of the people closest to me, die, my Mother, my Father, my Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and older friends of the family, but never one of my friends, someone my age, and it really makes you stop and reflect.
Yesterday, a memorial service and celebration of Jack’s life and gift was held at (le) Poisson Rouge, sponsored by Long Shot Productions, Cavankerry Press and (le) Poisson Rouge. It was an interesting mix of authors, artists, Jack’s co-workers (at his day job, Acme Exterminating in NYC) and friends. I saw some people I hadn’t seen in a while and met new friends of friends. We drank, ate, and listened to many of the funny, thought-provoking and brilliant poems Jack had written. I bought one of his books I didn’t have, looked at the many photos on display and thought about Jack, the man and friend, I’d known. Cavankerry Press was filming the memorial service yesterday, so I hope we’ll soon be able to post it online.
In addition, Cavankerry Press will be publishing a new book of Jack’s work in 2010. I’ll look forward to reading what he was thinking about as I’m sure others will, as we say farewell, we’ll miss you.
