But once again he has resurrected himself. His vigor has returned, and he's able to walk with a cane. His spirit remains undiminished.
"It seems like life gets better and better," he declares.
He has a warm, ear-to-ear grin that he displays often, and his sense of humor is certified by laughter that is deep, hearty and sometimes makes his whole frame tremble with mirth.
His philosophy of life in a nutshell?
"Live as long as you can, and die when you can't help it."
Self-reliance is part of his creed, which is why he's a Republican.
"I'm a conservative in that I believe everyone ought to work hard and earn their own money, if they're able," he says.
The source of his strength?
"I'm a Christian and I believe in Christ."
For 28 years, he has attended St. James Episcopal Church in Downingtown, where he also served on the vestry and chaired the youth ministry. In the church directory, his black face stands out. African American friends sometimes ask why he attends a "white church."
His reply: "Man, when we go to heaven, you think it's going to be separate, whites on one side, blacks on the other? I go to church where I feel comfortable going."
