I began taking classes with Gay at the Shiles Studio almost 8 years ago. Don, a beautiful artist himself, was curious about our art projects and would come into the studio to check on our progress. Always kind and welcoming -- and rarely without a dog(s) by his side -- we'd greet one another when I arrived for class. Don impressed me as a gentle and caring man, and I'm certain he'll be missed by all of us who knew him.