Eugene passed away last week. I attended his mass this morning at the church in Oakland. I first met Eugene when I was in CMRI. He was a CMU staff who delivered paychecks. He was blind and an active member of VIPACE. He was the first visual impaired person I sent email to. "My email is er2r@andrew," he told me.
Through Eugene I have met many VIPACE members and attended their meetings and parties. Their office was on Craig Street which was only one block away from my office. I had much fun with VIPACE people. They are so full of curiosity, energy and joy of life.
A few years ago, I invited Eugene and his friends to attend my class project exhibition at Carnegie Science Center. He arrived early and got hands-on experience of students' projects. He even danced with the live Jazz music.
One day, Eugene called me and asked if VIPACE group can visit CMU's Robotic Receptionist at Newell Simon Hall. "Doc, if would be great to have talking GPS and cash readers..." He always had fascinating ideas.
The mass for Eugene was great. He will be rested in Jefferson Memorial Cementery.
Eugene will be missed a lot.
Peace.
