As teenager growing up in Poway,CA playing baseball..I was thrilled to hear in 1982, Tony Gwynn and his family had built a house just up the street from my family's. He quickly became the face of the San Diego Padres and was one of the best hitters of all-time. If he was outside while I was coming or going...I always got a friendly wave and sometimes we chatted. He along with his son, Anthony and daughter, Anisha would always come by every Halloween...and I made sure I was home. He would come in and chat with us for a bit. All I can say is we all know what a great player he was...but he was even a better person and embraced the fans. I was a left-handed pitcher in my day and my favorite number was #19. My parents had California plates that had "Lefty 19" on them. When I sold my truck and playing days over and my parents moved away, I took my plates off and notified the Gwynn's my plates were available. I believe at the time..Tony put them on the Escalade they had. Today..I am obviously very saddened by the passing of Tony Gwynn. Brought me back today to my youth and just what a complete class act he was. Baseball and the world lost a huge star today. I will always treasure the times I had to talk to him. He passed away at the same hospital Dylan was born in. RIP Tony Gwynn!!!!