June 26, 2006

... I am so terribly sorry, Sam...

Always in my prayers.

...somehow sorry doesn't seem to say enough, he will be missed...

Yep. Egg on my face. And guessed the wrong room, to boot.

RIP, Cracker.

Rob's special wit will be greatly missed. I wasn't a frequent blog visitor, but enjoyed each occasion. May God bless and keep him, now we hope, whole and free of pain.

God Bless you Sam. Never met Rob but sure do miss him.

I'm so sorry Sam.

I can't believe this.

The world has lost a truly gifted Spirit, may the Good Lord welcome him and hold him near. My strongest condolences to you and your family Sam. So Sorry...
"And God stands winding His lonely horn,
And time and the world are ever in flight;
And love is less kind than the grey twilight, And hope is less dear than the dew of the morn." W.B. Yeats

My condolences, and it was good to (sorta) know you, Rob.

Rest in Peace is all that can be said.

So, so sorry.

My deepest and sincere condolences. This is a voice that will be missed.

Sam, I've been worried - silently - for a while. I know you don't really know the Jawja bloggers very well, but though we have been known to be trouble-makers, even amongst ourselves, we are a thick and thin crowd. So we are here.

Please keep us posted as to the details. I would like to be there. I will be checking here, and I have left my cell number on your dad's machine.

I am sorry for your loss, and ours. You need ANYTHING... Call me.

So sorry, Sam. I just have no words.

My condolences to you and all the family.

The rest of y'all show some respect in this house.

Richard

I've read gut rumbles for a little over a year now. I've never written a post until now. I am so incredibly shocked and saddened by this news. My heart goes out to his family and friends. I will miss reading his blog. Good bye Rob!

I'm so sorry. I'm going to miss him.

I'll miss my daily dose. So sorry for your families loss.

What a loss and a shock. I so enjoyed this blog. My condolences.

I really enjoyed Robs wit and biting humor. Please accept my condolences and prayers.

Merlin1

Oh man, I'm so sorry.

I've been reading Acidman since about the time I discovered the blogosphere. I started my blog just so I could debate one of Rob's commenters on the topic of gun control.

Say what you want about Rob, he didn't pull any punches. He said what he meant, meant what he said, and took no shit from anybody. I admire and respect that. It was fascinating watching the ongoing train wreck that was often his life, and I feel for both Sam and Quinton, and especially for his Grandmother. Outliving your children is one thing. Outliving your grandchildren must be especially hard.

Rest in peace, Acidman. If there's an afterlife, I hope yours is a lot like Costa Rica, with sweet nubile women, a working Roscoe, and all the good food, good beer, and good company you could ever want. You will be sorely missed.

And if people do leave nasty comments, well, I'll know what quality of person would do such a thing, and consider the source.

My condolences, Sam.

Rob, I wish to hell that I had visited with you more. Loved to hear you play, and the tales of your youth. You'll be missed, brother.

MY deepest condolences on your loss, Sam. Rob was a true original. A voice of indignation in the wilderness. I'll miss him much.

Rest In Peace, Blog Uncle.

All my love to you Rob. Say Hi to God when you meet him.

Mark

I'm sorry for your loss. Your dad's blog was the first one I ever read, one of those that made me want to start blogging, as well.

Sam, hopefully with each that passes the pain will ease....and eventually all the fine memories will outweigh the sorrow....

(Ruth in Connecticut)

Sam,
I am so sorry. My brothers and I wen to school with Rob in high school and I considered calling the Rincon Police yesterday but accrording to the messages left on his blog everyone assumed he was ok.
I am so sorry.

Rob made me enjoy coming to work to read his stories about his past. It will take awhile to stop opening my internet explorer and coming here...its the first thing i did as i stepped into my office. God be with you Rob.

Be strong Sam, and ignore the bullshit any trolls send your way. The world has lost a true character.

My thoughts and prayers go to him, as always.

Sam, thank you for the news.

My prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.

Rob inspired me with his openness about his trials and tribulations. I shall miss reading his daily thoughts.

Take care.

Please accept my deepest condolences. He was a free spirit and I will miss his wit , piss and vinegar every day. The sun just got a little dimmer.

Oh Sam, I am so sorry! I will greatly miss Rob's wit and I'll never forget his encouraging words to me when I found out I had cancer. It's just so very hard to believe. Please keep us posted about details. RIP, Acidman!

Sam, my deepest condolences to you and your family. I have lost a friend.

Heartbroken all the way over here in Oregon. Rob will be missed.

I'll tip a cold one to your memory. The world's a touch dimmer than it was awhile ago.

Oh darlin, I'm so sorry. He was a real pistol who stood his ground and spoke his mind. He'll be missed.

My deepest condolences. I am so sorry to hear about this.

Goodbye, Rob. You old asshole. And friend. I'll miss you and hoist a cold one to your memory. And I'll be seeing you, so keep the fridge stocked.

I'm so sorry, Sam. Your dad was one of the most infuriatingly and admirably honest men I've ever known. Yeah, he could be a real ass when he wanted to, but that was only part of the package. One thing he always was was true to himself. He hid nothing.

My prayers are with you and Quinton as well as the rest of his loved ones.

He's with G-d now, and probably giving Him a hard time already.

G-d Bless.

Damn! Just Damn!

My condolences.

Rob

I'm sorry for your loss. Your dad was a one of a kind.

Sam, please email me.

Goodbye, Rob. Hope you find the peace that eluded you in this life.

My deepest sympathy to Sam, Quinton and all of Rob's family and friends. He will truely be missed.

R.I.P. Rob

My thoughts are prayers are with you Sam, and your family.

I am very sad to hear this.

A-man was an outstanding writer, with depth and feeling... a Cracker-Jack character, like the prize inside the box. He will be greatly missed.

My deepest sympathy to all who love him.

Sam, you and all the rest of your family have my deepest sympathies. Godspeed, Rob.

I'm so very sorry, Sam.

Rob was the first blog I discovered some 3 years ago and he's been a daily read for me.

He will be greatly missed.

His blog was the first I ever read and never stopped. He will be missed by many, even up here in the north.

as Steve said "Hope you find the peace that eluded you in this life".

jimboy

So sorry to hear this. My sincerest condolences.

Sam, words cannot express how sad I am for your loss. I met Rob briefly in Austin, and was looking forward to spending more time talking to him the next time I saw him.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time.

Walrilla
(Donny)

RIP Acidman. You will be sorely missed. Would have enjoyed meeting you.

Condolences to the family. So sorry for your loss.

I'm so very sorry. Rob inspired me to keep blogging, and his linkage helped me through a dry spell or two.

God bless you all.

Sam--

Add my sympathies as one more of the huge crowd of Rob's fans.

Rob, I hope you found the peace you needed...

MC

"Good night, Sweet Prince, and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest..."

Deepest sympathies to his kith and kin...

Godspeed, Acidman...

I'm so sorry for your loss Sam. For OUR loss actually.
He will be deeply missed.

Oh Sam, I can't imagine what you must be going through. This is such a very sad loss. I'm so sorry.
((Hugs))

Again, Samantha..... my deepest condolences.

May peace find Rob now, at last and forevermore.

My prayers of comfort for you, Quentin and Mommie.

Godspeed, Rob.

Jim
Sloop New Dawn
Galveston, TX

[Inappropriate comment removed.]

Goodbye, Blogfather. Rest in Peace - no one has earned it more than you have.

Good knowing ya Rob. Good job you did too...a little bit of your philosophy rubbed off on all of us. Thanks.

I'd like to say thank you to all the kind folks who know how to enforce compassion. Men like Rob get to pay for that compassion.

I hope all of Rob's (and indeed all of our) 'beneficiaries' fucking choke on it.

The last part of his "I feel better" post have just been deleted by someone.

I'm always at a loss for words at a time like this.

I thank you for turning me on to blogging Rob and for the best read on the net.

I hope you have found peace and I'll miss your prescence on the web.

You'll be missed.

Sam, it seems I only get to send you comments when something bad happens.

I will never forget your father, he was a favorite blogger and a daily read. I couldn't wait to get to Gut Rumbles everyday to see what was going on.

I am so very sorry for your loss.

That is going to be one helluva funeral. Rest in peace, Rob.

Damn. He was one of my blogbuddies back when I was still doing The Safety Valve...I was always delighted when he'd drop by and rip some other commenter on my blog. What fun it was! Not many people really say what they think.
I'll miss the Gut Rumbles.

I read your Dad's blog everyday. I'll miss him.

Sam, I am sorry. I have lost a friend.

Godspeed, Rob, may you find the peace that eluded you in life. Thanks for sharing.

Sam, My Deepest sympathy and condolences. I've been an almost daily reader for over 3 years and felt truly touched by Rob's writings...he was at his best when he described life's simple joys and beauty, like a raging midnight thunderstorm, or the taste of homegrown tomatos or boiled peanuts, or a peaceful afternoon spent crabbing on a quiet saltwater creek with the daughter he loved...He will be sorely missed...farewell Rob...

Rob was one of my blogging inspirations and was early to notice and link me. I posted an RIP on my blog with a more complete farewell. No amount of expectation could have diminished the tears I'm shedding.

God bless.

Like so many others, the A-Man was one of the first bloggers I discovered out in the 'sphere.

Godspeed, Rob.

Sam, our prayers will be with you and your family.

The Internet just got a little duller.

Very sorry for your loss. Rob was a terrific writer that kept me coming back sometimes 2 and 3 times a day for years.

My deepest and most heartfelt condolences.

Sam, my sincere sympathy to you, Quinton and Mommie.

Sam,

I don't know how much you realize this, but your Father was special to so many of us. There are thousands of people who were entertained, saddened, frustrated, infuriated, and blown over by what he did here.

He was a man of a different time. He was a great adventurer and explorer of life, along the lines of Teddy Roosevelt and Hemingway. He didn't care what anyone thought of what he did nor did their admonitions deter him from telling all of us about it.

There is a little bit of Rob in all of us... I hope.

And I don't wish him peace. He'd have HATED peace. I hope he has dancing girls, prostitutes, hot beaches, and every drink he can get his hands around. I wish him a continuation of all that brought him joy and pleasure..

I'm sure he left this world with no regrets. I will now carry one with me... that I never met the man in person.

My sincerest condolences to you, Quinton, and the rest of the family.

Sam,

I found out today at 11:04 am. I have been sitting in solitude...attempting to blog...but words are inadequate. I've been laying in bed, listening to the somber rain beat against my window.

You, my friend, are in my prayers. Should you need anything...anything at all...please, let me know. I am very sorry for your loss.

Always,
Dana

No more discussions as to the value of the water hose, the bidet, or just merely wiping. A true loss, felt all the way to Thailand.

Extremely sorry for the loss to all..

Rob's pain is gone as well.

Vade in pace

Sam, sorry for your loss. Rob and I emailed privately for a short time back when he was trying to figure out his Quinton situation. I don't know that it was much help, but it was good to get to know him that little bit.
He'll be missed greatly, by many folks.
Best to you; btw, I'm in Denton, I understand you are close, if I can feed the dogs or whatever, let me know.
Mike

Rest in peace .
Sorry for the loss,a very funny guy...

I'm so sorry.

After all that he'd been through, I honestly believed that he was too ornery to die.

Rob was a true original. I will miss his sharp wit and sense of humor...but you, Sam, have lost a Daddy, and my heart goes out to you.

God, this isn't happening. Saturdays are usually the only days of the week that I get to trip around to my favorite blogs and I feel I've come to know
Acidman like one of my funniest uncles or something. Not really sure why I pulled up Misha when I did today, but the announcement actually made me a bit dizzy from the surprise.
Rest in peace, Rob. You fought some tough things, bravely I thought. I'll definitely miss you.
k

I'm thinking of the post he wrote about the one song that got stuck in his brain...

"Strawberry Fields Forever"....

RIP Rob. You'll be missed.

Sam...there arent' any words except I'm soo sorry. Your Daddy sure did love you.

Sorry to hear this. No longer will Rob, Jimbo and I get to play guitar together. He's at peace now.

Sam, I am so sorry for your loss.

There's going to be a huge hole in the blogosphere from now on. I'm going to miss you and your writing, Rob.

My deepest condolences to his family.

Oh darn, Sam. I had my differences with your Dad, but I'll miss his rumbling commentary. Many mourn with you.

Well, Rob - You're with the Big Blogger now. May you rest in peace forevermore. My deepest sympathies, Sam - Rob will be sorely missed! Amen.

My condolences to Rob's family and other loved ones.

May Rob's blog go forever on...

Only knew him from reading this blog, but I feel like I've lost a friend

Sam, please accept my most heartfelt condolences.

Your dad was one of a kind andhe will be sorely missed.

Do not stand by my grave and weep,
I am not there.... I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am a diamond glint on snow.
I am the soft summer breeze.
I am the early winter freeze.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.

When you awake in morning hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circling flight.
I am the soft star shine at night.

Do not stand by my grave and cry.
I am not there...I did not die.

Peace, Acidman. Peace.

Sam, my sympathies to you and all your family.

I first discovered this blog more than 3 years ago. And I've been coming back and reading, mostly lurking, but coming back and reading again and again often ever since. Rob was one of a kind. I'm just at a loss. Again, my sympathies.

Sam,
I am so deeply sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I wish I could say or do something to help ease the pain you must be feeling. Rob will be missed by many.

Shit. Rob was a great guy, who I'm sorry I never had the chance to meet. This sucks.

Sam, I am so sorry, may you find the strength to continue.

Prayers for Rob and condolences to the family. The wit and honest writing will be missed.

As we say in this part of Africa... Hamba gahle Nkosi... may he rest with his forefathers...

Sam,
So sorry for your loss. I don't even know what to say. He was like family when you read someone for so many years. He will be truly missed.
You are in our prayers

So sorry; the world will be a drearier place without him; maybe he knew it was coming...

Rob struck a chord with those of us who work, pay taxes and get shafted all over the world. I'm going to miss reading this. If he never did anything else (and he did) he taught one equally pissed off Englishman some great new words to use in communications with officialdom, the fucktards!

Everyone has said so much, and said it so eloquently, there isn't much I can add that hasn't already been said. In the blog world Rob was truly bigger than life, and his influence on all of us that blog will continue. He will be missed.......

.........Mr. C.

Sam...I am soooo sorry.

(((((ROB))))) Rest in peace, you will be missed. You have a special soul, I am sure you are in a better place.

Lisa

Only the good die young...

I'm sorry that I lived so close by (St. Simons Island Georgia) and that Rob and I never met

Don't know what to say. May his soul be at peace.

Shit.

The good ones go.

Farewell. You will be missed.

Rust

I used to be a regular reader years ago, but I sort of dropped away and I regret it terribly. I read about Rob's passing on several other blogs, and I just want to say we'll miss you, Rob, and you've made a lot of people have to stare straight into the mirror you held up for them. The blogworld has lost an incredible voice today.

I am so very sorry for the family. I am sick at heart over the news.

Yeah, Rob, some days the cats fucking piss me off, too.

Sam --

I met your Dad twice -- once in Helen, when he was at his lowest, and again in Austin, when he seemed to be "gettin' his shit together in one sock." One thing was clear at both meetings -- how much he loved you and Quinton and Mommie.

My prayers are with you all.

Goodbye, Acidman. The blogosphere won't be the same without you.

Holy shit, that sucks.

He was a man who touched many and will be sorely missed for a very long time to come.

Sincere sympathy to all.

Sam -
I often disagreed with your father, but I always returned to Gut Rumbles because I loved the way he wrote. I'm going to sorely missing him.

He wouldn't like it, but you know what: he never chose his path based on what other people thought. So he and his family are gonna be in my prayers tonight, whether he likes it or not!

Vaya con dios, Rob.

Lamont Cranston

Rob, God bless, you'll be missed!
Sam you and your family will be in my prayers.

I'm very sorry for your loss. I enjoyed reading everything he wrote, and I was looking forward to hearing his music one day.

Sam,

our condolences

Rob is with his Momma now...

all of the cat head biscuts he can stand to eat....

Good bye and God speed. One of the most honest and compelling voices on the internet has been taken from us.

Rob, We'll miss you even all the way out here in California.

Sam, my condolences to you and your brother. I don't know if Quinton ever had a chance to read Gut Rumbles or not. If he didn't, someone should preserve it for him, he will surely treasure it one day.

You'll be missed, Rob. Godspeed.

Sam, you have my condolences, for what they're worth.

Damn. We've lost one of the true originals. The man who taught us to spell "Jawja".

Goodbye to oneof the last honest men.

John Prine's "Please Don't Bury Me" is playing in the background...

So very sorry.

Sam,
Please give my condolences to all of your family on your loss. If there's anything you all need, you know where to ask. I had the pleasure to meet Rob one time, and we spun into conversations on gardening, college football, and many other things that seemed to interest us both. I'll miss him myself. I was looking forward to rattlin' his chain come football season this year.

Respectfully,
Bryan Henderson

You have my very deepest condolences. Rob will be greatly missed.

{{Hugs}} Sam.

I too am so sorry to see this.

I'm sorry.

I never met Rob, but his place here has been one of my favorite places to visit for a long time. I'm going to miss him.

We're only sad because we'll miss the voice of someone so courageous and true. Rob is in a better place and we'll all get to meet him someday.

Until next time A-man.

I'm so sorry Sam, please accept my condolences to you and the entire family. I was a frequent visitor, seldom commenting but Rob's house was an almost daily visit.. Rest in peace Rob!!!

I have no words other than...My thoughts are with all who knew and loved him.

Deb

Oh my God. I just got back from the doctor this minute. My heart is breaking for you and the family Sam. My deepest condolences.

Rest in peace Acidman.

Pax Vobiscum, Rob.
My condolences.

Adios, Acidman. You'll be greatly missed.

Dear Sam & Quinton @ Family,

My condolences and prayers are with you,

I just lost my beloved father in May and the

pain and loss is ever fresh.

I will truely miss Rob's humor, irreverance

and his special way of looking at life ---

May God rest his soul and give him the peace

he so dearly longed for.

Sadly missing him . . .

Linda~

Imagine, if there could one more post.
My prayers for your family.

Sam, I'm sorry for your loss. CalTech Girl called me while I was at pain clinic today. It was just ten minutes earlier that I'd thought of calling your dad and decided against it. I thought of him all weekend, thought of calling. But, well...he was in one of his moods and I didn't think it wise to step into the middle of the storm.

Now, of course, I'd give anything to hear that sweet and deep drawl again.

I hope you know how much your dad was loved, Sam. I'll miss him much.

P.S. Cat should have my phone number and can pass it along if you need it. Or, feel free to email me.

Goodbye guy.

We've lost an original voice and an honest one. God bless, Sam and Quinton.

My condolences. I will miss Rob very much.

Another anonymous reader signing in with my condolences to you and your family over Acidman's death.

I've never met him in person, of course, but he came across as a strong-willed person who left a memorable mark as a writer and a man.

I will miss him.

Sorry to hear this. Rob sent me a couple of e-mails and I'll definitely keep them in a safe place.

Goodbye Acidman

Sam,
I met Rob once (at the Mike Cross show at Randy Wood) but I felt like we had known each other donkey's years. He was funny, gracious and one hell of a guy.
My world is diminished by this loss. Heck, the whole world is diminished.

My best wishes to you at a time of trial.
Ric

I just want to say thanks, Mr. Smith, your writing really inspired me, and your struggles humbled me, for which I'm truly grateful.

I loved reading his rambling. He was one of a kind.

Rest In Peace my friend, don't worry about us... we will all be along to join you soon enough.

I'll miss his commentary and humor. A lot of people will. It's sad news. Hope his family is doing the best they can with this. I reckon there are no health problems or Internal Revenue Service where Rob is now, God Bless him. Goodbye Acidman.

Condolences, Sam. One thing that always came through in his writing was how much he loved his children. I hope I've shown it at least half as much to mine.

I met Rob in 75 or76 when he started singing at The Port Royal. He was a very good entertainer, and always gave the audience his best.
I will miss reading Gut rumbles, your Daddy had a way with words.
My condolences to you, Sam, and the rest of the family.

OMG!

I just ot home from work and happened upon this horrrible news.

I am poleaxed.

I have been reading Gut Rumbles for almost 4 years now, and Rob was on the top of my "daily read" list. I will miss him terribly.

Wow, just wow. Acidman was one of a kind. I always wanted to have an hour or so to talk to him but never could get that part of the country. Would have liked to have played a little guitar together also.

Sam - I am so sorry to hear the news. I've enjoyed 'visiting' Rob regularly - for his honesty and blunt humor. Please accept my condolences.

Rob - You will be sorely missed in the 'sphere. I hope you're giving 'em hell wherever you are!

So sorry to hear it. He was an honest man, which seems a rare thing today.

Sam, you make sure Quentin knows how much his daddy loved him.

Rob -- Rest In Peace. I'll miss you, man.

oh, g-d, how i wish it weren't true ... i was hoping upon hope to have met him this summer ...
i'm *so* sorry ... to sam, quinton, mommie, and to all the girls [with red toenail polish] he'd loved before.
a helluva guy ... - erica

Sam: Thanks for letting us know and thanks for being there for your wonderful Dad. You and your family are in my prayers.

Boy, do I wish I had dibs on on him for a Guardian Angel...but knowing Rob he will pick a family member or some chick with red toenails.

I guess his heart isn't broken anymore.

God Bless Robert Smith.....and besides that God better keep his hand on his wallet and the other on his drink. Rob will take over heaven and we'll all be better for it.

Robert Langham
Tyler, Texas

Here I am at my Got-damn computer CRYING over this redneck sumbitch.

Got-DAMMIT.

Sam, I'm so sorry to hear about your dad. He entertained us and won the hearts of many in the years I've been reading him.

My condolences to you and your family. Your dad's blog was one of the first I found, and no matter what computer I had, I always bookmarked Gut Rumbles first because it was so full of life and strength. Your father's courage in sharing his struggles in life, his ability to write words that moved people and his unabashed willingness to live life will continue long after his death. Many prayers for you and Quinton...

Sam,
I am so sorry for your loss. You have sure had a rough time of things the last couple of years.
If I can do anything for you, please do let me know!

Crap. Just crap. Dammit all to hell anyway. I'm so sorry, Sam, and my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. And I also include those who have read Rob for years. I feel as if I've lost a member of my own family, for in a way I have. And I'm also angry enough to hope that some people have a hard time sleeping tonight.

I will miss Rob, his blog has been a blessing. May God have a special place for a man who has brought delight to hundreds of friends with his writing.

I'm so, so sorry. My deepest condolensces.

You have my condolences, as well as those of my family.

Just damn. My deepest sympathies.

I know Rob would not approve, but I'm saying a prayer for him now. He gave me many monents of joy and I'll miss him. Hey Rob, say hi to my dad, Frank, and Joey too.

I'm so sorry, Sam. Rob was so real, and so open to sharing his struggles and his joys. You were certainly one of the latter.

Rest in peace, Acidman.

My condolences. He will be missed.

Dearest Sam, So very, very sorry. Deepest sympathy to you, Quinton, Stacey, and the family.

I believe he finally has the peace that seemed allude him more each day.

Take care of yourself and be there for Quinton. Dad would like that.

Always, Maggie

Rest in Peace Acidman.

Dear Sam,

Sympathies to you and your family. I hope you find the strength to get through this, I know how painful it is to lose parents, and I wish there was something I could do to help.
I never met Rob, but he will be missed.

Best wishes,

My sincerest sympathies to you and your family, Sam. Rob was unique, in a good way. I'm going to miss him...

Sam, Please accept my sincerest condolences to you and yours. Godspeed and Semper Fi Rob.

Condolences to all his family.

Rob sure loved y'all.

My condolences. I've read this site for years, but on an off-and-on basis. I tried to get together with Rob the last time I was in Georgia, but it didn't work out. I'm sorry that it never will, now.

I suppose, though, that he'd be somewhat tickled if he knew I set up an appointment this morning to have one of my cats put to sleep.

I am so sorry, Sam. I've read this blog for a while, and loved his writing. You will be in my thoughts and prayers, as will Rob -- and he will be missed.

My sincere condolences to you and your family. May you find comfort in happy memories.

Rob was a shining beacon of strength, courage and wit in this dim dark world of ours.

I share your sorrow, and I salute his life!
He went through a lot of shit, and kept his dignity
I hope I do half as well when my time comes

The traveller has reached the end of the journey!
In the freedom of the Infinite he is free from all sorrows,
the fetters that bound him are thrown away,
and the burning fever of life is no more.

Dhammapada

May the peace he now has be extended to all who know and love him

Goodbye, Acidman....
See you on the other shore.
K

Sam,

Your father was a man with a truely noble soul. Through his writings, he taught me many important lessons that I will pass on to my own children.

He will live on in the memories of the people whos lives he has touched.

- Paul

Sam,

My condolences to you and all who cared for him.

May he rest in peace.

I am so sorry for your loss. I use to read "GUT RUMBLES" regularly a couple years ago. He will be greatly missed in the blog world.

OMG Sam. I'm SO sorry to hear this. My heart goes out to you and your family. You have my condolences.

And if you need ANYTHING, get in touch with Kellie and get my number. I'm there for you, girl.

I"m so sorry.

I've been a visitor - though not commenting often for years.

He will be missed. My condolences on his passing.

I'm very sorry.

You and yours are in my prayers.

Well, dammit.

May he provide as much joy and wisdom on the other side as he did on this one.

My condolances to family and friends.

Seeing all the sadness of readers here today makes some of Rob's own words really stand out in my mind. In one of his posts, he said....

...."Long ago, I described this blog as an exercise where I stuffed notes in bottles and threw them into a vast ocean where I hoped someone would find the bottle and read the note. But that's not really what I was doing. This blog was my lifeline that towed me to shore when I was totally shipwrecked. It kept me alive for more than two of the worst years I've lived in my life. I wasn't stuffing notes in bottles. I was standing on the shore and shouting frantically for rescue. People came. I WAS rescued. And I will always appreciate that fact."

Mostly, what stands out are how many times I saw him declare his love for his family. My sincere condolences to Rob's family and many friends.

Sam, I am so sorry to hear this. Know that you and all the family are in my thoughts.

So sorry to hear this bad news. I've lost a friend that I never got around to meeting.
I don't think that Sam will ever need the help of an old fart rifle nut from northeast Texas but if ever you do, drop a note.

Not a frequent visitor, but he often made me smile. I'm sorry for your loss. If you don't mind my asking, please post a memorial charity for him.

I am deeply saddened to hear about this. His comments and humor will be missed. He was an original. Condolences to you and his family

I'm so sorry for your loss. Rob will be missed greatly. Please let us know the details. I will be there.

Let me know if there is anything that Ward and I can do.

Rest in peace Rob. God bless.

Sam,

Little comfort, but I hope Rob is in a better place. Rob: I will miss you terribly.

Michael

This Georgian sends his deepest condolences.
R.I.P.

Rob helped this Japanese recall the part of America he loved visiting and was part of an America the world needs more than ever these days.

He fought the good fight with pen dripping of wit and acid, between his lines peaked humbleness too: he'll be missed and remembered. meifuku wo oinori itashimasu .

Kobe, Japan

Sam, I am so sorry, and I cannot improve on the other good wishes above. I've visited whenever Cajun linked to one of his articles, and been greatly entertained, and sometimes deeply moved here. You have my sympathy in your loss.

R.I.P. Acidman.

What Mrs. du Toit said.

I'm gonna miss him. Damn. Another good one gone.

I considered Acidman a blogfriend. There was a lot of sweetness in him along with the acidic honesty and humor. My condolences on your loss.

Rest in peace Rob. We're gonna miss you. Sorry for your loss Sam and company. I'll pray for Rob and you guys.

Sam, I'm so very sorry for your loss. Your Dad will be missed very much. One of the first things I did every morning was check Acidman's blog. He was indeed unique.
He certainly had a way of saying exactly what was on his mind. I wish I could do that as well as he did.
Again, please accept my condolences.

Fred

Thanks for letting us know; he will be missed by many.

It's a sad day. My condolences, Sam, and please pass them on to Quinton, if you get a chance.

I only met Rob once (Wreckell in Jekyll), and what I found was the essence of a Gentleman. Not necessarily a polite Gentleman, but consider what makes a Gentleman:

1. Polite, until and unless you were rude first. Then he was rude right back at you, with bells and curlicues.
2. Deference to Wimmen, even when he thought the Wimmen within range were being 'tards. Unless she really worked at it.
3. Literate in his own language.
4. Widely read.
5. A good friend, and a fearsome foe.
6. Musician par excellance.
7. A really good eye for the female form divine.
8. Raconteur extradinare, both spoken and written.
9. Told the truth about himself, even if it hurt.
10. Loved his children, without reservation.
11. Never, ever afraid to speak (or write) his mind.

Sam, you might want to consider conserving his writings for the future - I'm sure that at some time you and Quinton would like to read his posts, and listen in your mind to your Dad speaking out.

"Touch twice life"

Will miss him greatly. I read him every day.

Sad but not unexpected news.

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Sam.

I am sorry for your loss Sam, Rob truly was one of a kind.

Goodbye my friend. You will be sorely missed.

This is terrible news. My deepest condolences.

A great writer who will be missed.

For what it's worth, my condolences.

Dammit, I'll miss his writing and his stories. And his view on things.

I started reading Rob about a year ago, and he was one of the people (as well as quite a few of the fine people who have left such lovely comments) who influenced me to start my own. Not that I, or anyone else, can ever live up to his standards.

Sam, you have my deepest sympathies and condolences. I just returned from my grandmothers funeral and I know all too intimitely what you are going through.

Now, and I think Rob would appreciate this...anyone else thinking he did this just to piss off the IRS?

So sorry for your loss. I had to read it twice, just couldn't believe it.

God bless and Godspeed.

WOW...

I never met Rob, have never met Sam, or probably any of you who have frequented his blog. Yet I felt I knew Rob, and looked forward to his wit and wisdom every day. I will miss him terribly.

I hope he's in Costa Rica :)

Damn. Damn damn damndamndamndamndamn.

Sam, your dad was a good man who touched a lot of us with his prose.

Rest in Peace, Acidman. Godspeed.

I am saddened to learn of your loss. My condolences go out to your family.
Rob will be missed.

Bloody hell.

Rob Smith saved my life.

He never knew it, and I never told the got damned cracker so, but he did.

Its mid 2003, my marriage had failed and the relationship with a woman who was once my best friend was now a smoulding wreck. My ex and her team of lawyers were running me through a wringer, with a pleasent helping of purjured testimony and outright bullsh* in teh process. I missed seeing my kid on a regular and predictable basis and the courts, while all too quick to remind me for whom the bell tolled if my cash was late, never seemed to care when my ex wouldn't let me see my daughter, the most important thing to me in my life. Work was hell and I was on the outs with my own folks.

I was on my heels, careening down the ski slope. Felt like my life wasn't mine, wasn't in control. For the first and only time in my 35 years, I considered eating a bullet. Not just considered, but started making plans. Plans involving a camping trip to a remote location where it'd be a while before I was found. I was as low as one can imagine.

Two days before I was going to take the trip, I followed a link to gutrumbles from Instapundit. And I found a kindered soul. This man, this profoundly sourthern gentleman, spoke the words of my feelings. He summed up in one catchy phrase the "rut" I felt like I was in: Can't keep all my shit in one sock. And that S.O.B. told his tale. He told it all, unapologetically and without varish or spin. And he pushed through and perservered through a level of sh*t that made my troubles look like sunday school. But most of all, he opened up. He let people know that going through this kind of shit hurts, that there's a pain in having a black-robe screw with your ability to be a parent that is deep and unending. He dealt with it.

And so, I did. I read Rob's stuff, devoured his archives, and reread some of the more serious posts. And when it came time to leave for my "camping" trip, I didn't go. Just decided that I wouldn't. And I know Rob's writing, his spirit, his essence was a big reason for that.

This weekend, literally, I took my little girl camping at what was to be "the spot." Sound's off kilter, I know, but it was something I had to do. Closing that chapter and starting to write a new one.

I'm stunned and saddened that Rob is gone. And I'm ashamed I never wrote to him to tell him what a profound influence he had on me. In a way, I'm sure much of my hesitance was in recognizing that although my sh*tstorm was starting to pass, Rob was still hurting and still being battered by his own. Perhaps it was pride, and not wanting Rob to know that shit he brushed aside with an acid wit nearly brought me to an end. But I am sitting here now, I know, because of Rob and for that I am forever in his debt.

Requiest in passem, ya grumpy son of a bitch. Thank you. Thank you for the gift you gave me: I will do my very best to earn it.

I'm very sorry, Sam
Condolences to you and all your family..

I lost my father last March.
Life is never quite the same.

Peace to you and yours,
Dan

Rob gave me many hours of enjoyment with his Southern Charm and Redneck Wisdom. The Blogosphere will not be the same without him.
Rest In Peace My Friend

Sam, You and your father and brother are in my heart and in my thoughts. He was not the most discreet blogger but he was truthful and he really loved his children and he grew the prettiest "maters" in the world. I'm sorry you won't have him anymore. I am old and he was way too young to die. And so am I in my mind.

I just wanted to say how much I will miss Rob and I hope this blog is left standing fas a tribute to is life, for his son and his many many friends in the blogosphere.

He was a wonderful person with a kind heart, though he'd never admit it. I will always hold dear the "Gut Rumbles" stickers he recently sent me, they are still in the envelope with his handwriting.

Please post and let us know the details of his arrangements.

My best to you Sam. I hope one day that Quinton will know how much his daddy loved him.
Dawn

I am sure going to miss him. One thing about it, he's with God now. He's at peace. This really hits me hard. I really liked him. I'll say a prayer for him and his family. Sam, please let us know the funeral arrangements.

Sam, As hard as it is for me to hear, I can't imagine how hard it was for you. God Bless Rob and my sympathy to the family.
Theresa Kennedy

The world is a lesser place because of his passing.

Condolences Sam.

Godspeed Acidman.

Acidman got me through many a late night at work - keeping me going through the boredom and fatigue. I never posted here, but I truly enjoyed his writing and his attitude. Fare thee well, Rob.

I'm one of the regular commenters on Dean's World. I never even heard about Rob until Dean Esmay posted the note about his passing.

First thing I did here, was read about Rob and his life in his own worlds, in "About Me". I have to tell all his friends that Rob could as easily described me. Except that I'm 72, happily married, probably in better health, and I don't drink much.

So I'm sorry I never knew enough to look him up in his lifetime. Maybe write him some comment that would either amuse the hell out of him or make him madder than hell.

From the little I was able to read, he sounded like an interesting fella.

So, take good care of his memory,

Arnold Harris
Mount Horeb WI

i cant believe it. so incredibly sorry for you loss. may he rest in peace.

I'm so sorry.

I am so sorry...

Oh, I was so afraid that something was wrong. I'm going to miss reading him, and I am glad I got to meet him face to face, and see the good guy shining through him. He had a gentle smile and a warm handshake there, and that's what I'll choose to remember of him.

A warm hand and a friendly look and a full grin as he promised to send me a picture of his garden, when his corn grew tall.

This hurts.

I've been a reader for a while and will miss Rob.
My Condolences

Mike

My condolences to you and your family Sam. He will be missed.

-Brian

Rest in peace Acidman.

You will be sorely missed.

"Seeing death as the end of life is like seeing the horizon as the end of the ocean."

Peace

i am so sorry for your loss,i am sorry i didnt get to meet the man and shake his hand and say thanks,your daddy {what little i knew of him}he was a good man and father,anyhing i can do just let me know.
rest in piece a-man
with all due respect pcterm

Sam, We just heard, We docked in South Florida and are driveing back home now. I'll try and touch base with Dave in the morning. what ever we can do to help let us know.
Cat has our number, call if you need us.
Love ya
Rick and Georgia

Rest in Peace acidman.

So sorry for your's and Quinton's loss Sam.
Rob will be missed by myself and countless others. I read him every day. He inspired me to start my own puny efforts at blogging.
Go with God Rob.

I hope he's finally found some peace. He seemed to have so little in life.

Sam,

I am so, so sorry. Your dad was my friend. We laughed and made music together. I'll never forget that, and I'll never forget him.

Jimbo

Sam: darn sorry to hear about this; I've been reading this blog off and on for quite some time. Rob also helped and advised me when I had a bit of a panic over a, thankfully false positive, PSA test.

A big grizzly hug from me to you and Quinton and grammah and the rest.

What sad news. My condolences to his family.

Wow! My God. What happened?

I first read his blog three years ago. Off and on. Since he recovered, on everyday.
So short, I felt I knew him personally, in a way I did, because his writing was so honest.
Death? He wrote, looked, like he got over the tough spot in his recovery, and the rest of the road, smooth relatively, relatively, because he knew what was coming and he obviously took strength from his friends and family. Yes, especially, the friends on the net, who never ment him, but were always there because he was there for us.

So short. So, yes, given his health, so unexpected.
Thank you Rob Smith for your wisedom. Thank you for your friendship you gave everyday.
It made my life better.
I will miss you.
My prayers are with your family.
Sincerely,
Terry Josiah

My condolences, Sam, Quinton, and Mommie. He was a refreshingly honest MAN, who lived a full life. I enjoyed reading him every day, and I am glad he is at piece and isn't hounded anymore.

My God. This is awful.

My deepest condolences. He was so interesting to read, and as others have said; Honest. It was a unique experience reading his posts.

Bill.

Adios, mi amigo. Vaya con Dios.

The fire has gone out. The room is still warm though....

He's somewhere playing his guitar, telling tales, making people laugh and pissing people off.

Rock on, A-man.... rock on.

Oh, no! An original voice is silenced, and we are worse off because of it.

Goodbye Acidman.

I will miss your aceribic style and bluntness.

May you rest well.

Awwwwww, damn. I was really fond of that man. He's going to leave a big hole in the blogosphere.

I don't have the words for this.

I wish you well Sam, and Quinton and the rest of Rob's family and loved ones.

i discovered this blog no less than one week ago. it is no exageration to say that i sat here for 5-6 hours reading the words of this man. laughed many many times and found myself wishing i had the ability to express myself the way acidman did. returned here just now for another dose of his wit and read the sad news. so sorry for his familys loss.

Hi Samantha,
I am so sorry to here this - I hope you are hanging in there. Your father meant something to me although I never met. We're the same age and had remarkably similar problems and opinions. Heck, I even have a lesbian daughter that, like Rob, I am deeply proud of and love beyond words. I need a good cry.

With love,
Andrew

[Stupid comment removed]

I will miss the Acidman. My condolences to his family.

God bless.

Godamit. Its true what they say, about the good ones leaving first.

I'll miss this pit-stop on my daily blog surfing. May the afterlife be good to you, Mr. A-man. You can use the rest.

My condolences to his family.RIP Rob.

Such sad news.

Goodbye Rob, and my deepest condolences to the Smith family.

Wow.

Just damn.

My Condolences, Sam.

I hate to be the practical one at a time like this, but someone should get started archiving this website for the day when it's no longer available.

Warts and all, Acidman was a unique voice and the blogosphere will be weaker without him.

I'm sorry. And sad.

I am in a state of disbelief and so sad. Can't stop the tears but I have to because I am at work. I never even met Rob but after reading him for about 5 years, I feel like I have lost a dear friend. I just got the sweetest email from him last week and I am glad I still have it. At the end of it, he promised me a free signed copy of his future book, "darlin". *heavy sigh*
I worried so much about him all weekend and last night I found myself going back to his blog several times to see if he had checked in. A couple times I seriously considered calling the Rincon police for a welfare check but saw the comments saying its better not to and then I thought maybe it would seem crazy that a person in IL would be calling the police...and told myself I was overreacting and getting myself into a tizzy.

My heart is so heavy. My thoughts and prayers go out to Sam, Quinton and Grandmommie and Rob's brother and all of his loved ones and friends.

My heart goes out to Cat and Livey too.

I was regular reader and occasional commentator. I didn't always agree with what he said, but always liked the way he said it..

HE was a MAN who had walked the walk and could talk the talk. There are far too few of those around these days. Condolences on your loss, Sam, and DAMN the 'roids.

Aw crap. A-man by god YOU stomped on the terra and left quite a trail. Thanks for the smiles through all the miles.
RIP Rob,
Da Bear

Jesus Fucking Christ.

I am so sorry, Sam. He was a hell of a guy. An inspiration for this baby blogger and Georgia girl.

Rob, you will be missed. Rest in peace.

Miss Fire

I started reading Rob's blog shortly before he went into rehab when he said he was dieing. I was so pleased when he came back after rehab and resumed blogging. The only time I ever left a comment was recently to give him hell for refrigerating ripe tomatoes. I think I was the guy he referred to shortly thereafter as a "got-dam mater nanny" or something like that. I promptly left another comment admitting that I was just jealeous because he had ripe tomatoes and I didn't. His absence is gonna leave a big hole in my days. My sincere condolences and best wishes to you and your brother and to Rob's grandmother.

Everyone's said what I feel already. You have many shoulders available to you, Sam, but if you find you need one more, it's open.

The blogosphere has lost an ornery pillar.

What a terrible loss.

I'm so very sorry. :(

My deepest sympathies for your family.

Rob was one of a kind.

Sam,

I am so sorry to hear about your dad. I always enjoyed reading his view on the world, the world has lost a wonderful man.

Sam, I know how empty condolences feel at a time like this, but accept them from me anyways. Your dad was a good man. I wish I'd known him better. I pray for him and his family and friends to find peace.

We'll miss you, Rob. :(

Rob, you were a hell of a guy. We'll miss ya.

We are diminished.

My deepest sympathies to Sam and Stacy, and the rest of the family.

Rob was a delightful, interesting person to those who bothered to get to know him. He will be missed.

Rest in peace, Rob. Thanks for the daily doses of wit, sarcasm, humor, anger and unabashed honesty that defined you.

My heart breaks for you and your family, Sam.

Godspeed Rob.

You will be sorely missed.

While I've not often commented, I've frequented Rob's blog over the past several months, and wrote to him while he was at Willingway.
I'm so sorry you're gone, Rob. Thank you for being a voice of reason, and refusing to cave in to political correctness. You had a lot of guts, and your legacy will live on. I learned a lot from you. May you rest in peace.

God bless you, and Sam, and the rest of your family, and all of your blogfamily, too, which are legion.

Oh my God... what terrible news. Sam, I am so sorry to read this. He was always so sweet to me and I am just devestated. I was hoping to meet him one day and I am so very sad that I will never get the chance to hear him sing or play guitar. I know this may sound empty but if I can help with anything, please let me know.
{{{hugs}}}

Sam,

I'm so sorry for your loss. I have no idea where I'll go first thing in the morning when I get to the office now. Rob's site has been the first place I visited every morning for the last three years. RIP, Rob.

F. Kent

I am sure Rob could be a difficult friend or relative, but I suspect he could be a great friend or relative, too.

I will miss him, and I never even met the man.

RIP, Rob.
My sympathies to those who loved you.
It's been a long time since I've visited this blog, but I enjoyed it immensely when I used to. Rob's honesty, wit, and non-conformity were inspirational.

I'm so sorry for your and our loss, Sam. Daddy will be missed and remembered. G-d bless.

I think it speaks VOLUMES about Rob and his impact (and that's exactly what it was) that one of his trackbacks is in Swedish(?).
A man known and loved around the world.
I have cried myself dry today.
RIP Rob, you will never be forgotten.

He was tougher than I am. My condolences to his friends and family.

Thoughts from far off Australia.
I am so sorry for your loss, Sam.

There are no words.

Farewell, old mate.

Sam, I am truly sorry for your loss.

A place in my heart for dear A-man will not be empty..it will be full of wonderful memories of Rob's humor, truth, and acirberic wit.
Thank You Rob! You are missed.
Blessings be on you and yours.

My condolences to you, Sam, and Quinten, Mommie, and his brother.

Sam,

It's such a testament to you and your family that you took time in your own grief to reach out to others and let us know. Thank you for your generosity. That's one of the things that struck me the most about your dad over all these years of reading him. It's easy to be generous with stuff, but he was unusually generous of spirit.

I feel so sad to have lost this man that I cared about and respected, but never met. I know there will be many around the world who feel the same. I only wish that our sadness could somehow lessen yours.

God, I'm going to miss him terribly.

With sincere condolences to you, your family, and Rob's many "real life" friends....

There's an echoing silence in blogdom today.

Sam, my deepest condolences to you and to Quinton.

Damn. My deepest sympathies.

I am so so sorry, Sam. What devastating news. My deepest sympathies to you, Quinton, and your family. Just know that your father was loved by many people. I hope you can find some comfort in the knowledge that so many people, most who never even met your father in person, could be moved to tears by his passing. We all could only hope to touch so many people in our own lives. I will miss him terribly.

Rest in peace Rob. May you finally find an end to your suffering.

I'm sorry. I felt like I knew your father well, if only through his blog.

Sam,

You and all of Rob's family, friends, and loved ones have my very deepest condolences during this time.

Rob's daily words will be missed but he will live on in the hearts and memories of those who loved him most.

-- Princess Cat

This is so hard to believe. Things seemed to be turning up for Rob, but he never really got to enjoy it.
I am just so sad.

Sam,

Rob's blog was the first one that I would read every day. I enjoyed his wit and forthrightness. A truly great American. My condolences to you and your family.

I'm sorry, we are lessened by his passing.

[Inappropriate comment removed.]

1

Going to miss him. A Lot. I've been reading Rob for over three years, his commentary has always been an invaluable addition to my daily reading. I don't care, Rob stays on my blogroll anyway.

I don't think its appropriate to venture guesses about hereafters, but I am sure the Devil would kick him out and upstairs 'cause he couldn't stand the heat.

Condolences and best wishes are all that belong here.

To RonDoble and his ilk:

Have you never heard of the concept of compassion?

Regardless of your particular faith, try to not inflict it on others at such times, would you?

It reflects poorly on you. Very poorly.

Damn.

I just read the last e-mail that Rob sent me. It was exactly the right e-mail at exactly the right time.

I will remember him for the rest of my life and I didn't even meet him in person.

Did not always agree with him but he was a damn good writer. I'm very sorry to see him go.

'Sleep, Death's twin-brother, knows not Death,
Nor can I dream of thee as dead.' (Tenneyson)

A friend of mine who knew I read Rob everyday sent an e-mail, with no warning, to this link. I was in total shock, and I can't stop the tears...I'm filled with disbelief and true sadness. The world is indeed a darker place just now. If I feel this stunned and hollow, I can only imagine how those who were truly close to him must feel, my heart goes out to all of you.

To you, Sam, Quinton, and his beloved grandmother, I send my deepest sympathy. I feel as if I know all of you, you became 'like family' to me through your father/grandson. He had a way of making us all feel 'special' in that way. My prayers will be with you tonight and in the days to come.

I felt I had 'arrived' as a blogger when Rob linked to my blog. I'd become one of his 'official red-toe-nailed wimmen', in fact, one of his last complaints about 'us' was the source of this link. I received more hits on my blog after his acknowledgment than all the time prior...a testament to the loyalty of his fan base. We exchanged a few e-mails, then, and actually before, and I was to receive his last two bumper stickers....I only wish I had...(I'd worried that my address was lost when he shared the problem with his e-mail addy. Sigh.)

As I recall our exchanges and think of his many posts, I can't help but smile, yet my sorrow runs deep....I'm at a total loss for words to adequately honor this superb writer and friend. He was a great man, one of a kind, and I daresay there will never be another like him. His link will remain at the top of my list, for I know I will have a difficult time getting my mind around this loss.

To say he will be missed is an understatement. I will remember him and his work here with great love and affection.

RIP, Acidman.

Just DAMN. We mourn the passing of a friend, minstrel, writer extraordinaire, yardstick and barometer. Who will boogerblog now? Who will taunt the race pimps and say out loud what so many think?

Sam, your dad was truly one of a kind. He showed us the highest highs and the lowest lows. I read him every day and there is now a gaping hole in the blogosphere. Please post the arrangements as soon as they're made.

Godspeed Aciddude.