As we approach the anniversary of Bill Mayo's passing

[everettdavis]

As we approach the anniversary of losing my (our) friend Bill Mayo last year at 6:15 pm March 14, 2017, I was going through some correspondence Bill and had through the years.

The Shopsmith Bearing Guide I finished late last year as some will recall, I dedicated to Bill as he and I had collaborated a good bit on conceptualizing that project as his health continued to worsen.

Following his passing it was nearly six months before I could touch it again.

One of the emails he sent me the year before indicated Bill was aware that he was in a battle to retain what he could for as long as he could.

Bill was a remarkable man who shared his knowledge freely with all who knew him.

Everett,

The Alzheimer is slowly getting me to where I can only think clearly several days a week. I have been fighting the Alzheimer for more than 3 years and am doing much better than the doctor had given me to be able to function. Since I still get some good days, I want to keep rebuilding some of the items I have in my shop and sell them on eBay. I know there is an end point coming soon so would hate to see all the remaining stuff I have collected go the salvage yard.

I may have a few more dozen remains of 500s and 510s laying around. I never can remember what I have now. It is like an Easter egg hunt every time to go look for a part. I would believe that within 5 years, I will not remember what a Shopsmith is. I struggle each day now and find I do things that I do not remember doing afterwards. I find I can only accomplish one step or action before having to quit and take a break. I will screw up whatever if I do more with no reason why I did it. Having someone to assist me really help extend my time in the shop.

If you are thinking about getting into the Shopsmith repair and rebuilding business in the future, you may want to take a few days’ vacation and visit me. We have a spare bedroom. I will share files and pictures and spend some time in the shop even if you are not interested in what I have.

Sadly we could never coordinate another trip that would fit into our schedules, and I cherish the time I did have with him on the phone.

So as we approach the anniversary of Bill’s passing, I would ask that his gracious wife Ann be in our thoughts and prayers.

May God Bless Bill and Ann Mayo.

Everett

[Gene Howe]

Very touching, Everett. Thank you.
I had a few phone conversations with Bill. He was most helpful. He built and shipped me a Shorty about a month or so before he passed.
He was indeed a good man and he is sorely missed.

[JPG]

AMEN!

[bicman]

Bill helped me out with some parts for my MK V 500 when I first bought it. This site and people like Bill that unselfishly give of their time and knowledge make the World a better place.

God Bless.

[everettdavis]

Rest in Peace Bill.

You are sorely missed my friend. Ann is continually in our prayers.

Everett