Geez . . . I am absolutely crushed by this.
Shame is squarely on my shoulders for overlooking this - Harold made himself a friend to me in both word and deed, and our conversations and lunches at the PRI shows are among my most cherished memories I associate with this crazy sport.
One of the GREAT coincidences in my life is that Harold and Mark went way back - I had inadvertently partnered up with a builder who knew Harold well. Harold had shown an interest in, and provided encouragement (along with spare valves and a cutting torch) for this build before my association with Fordboy had been cemented, and that I was able to be in the same room with both of them at the same time is a memory I will cherish.
On page 110 of Harold's book, "Dyno Testing and Tuning", chapter 10 starts out with this sentence -
"Problems are almost always a sign of progress."
I attached that quote and the attribution to my profile on this site many years ago, for two reasons:
1. It's true, and
2. I find it kind of funny
It speaks to the improvement process and provides for me a perspective that while not all changes are advancements, continuous work will lead to progress. Problems can be overcome, and progress is the measure of the work one puts in to overcome problems.
I find that perspective poetic, especially coming from a man of science.
When we last talked face-to-face, he said he was working a novel based on his life. I don't know how far he got on it, but I'd love to read about his encounter with members of Buddy Holly's Crickets on the high school football fields of West Texas, and his conversations with Hayden Fry - another hero of mine.
Harold, your time, help and friendship will always be appreciated, and now, sorely missed.
