6/13/16, A Mount Everest of a Man
Hi Everyone,
I hope all of you are well, and that life is going smoothly.
I always hesitate to share sad personal news with you, but sometimes it seems important, and defines me in a way, so maybe it’s okay to share it with you, so we know each other better. So I will share my sad news with you this time, of a few days ago.
I’ve told you about my marriage to my husband John, a long and mostly happy marriage to a truly lovely elegant, aristocratic, charming man, who was the father of eight of my nine children. A heroic feat in itself. We were married for 17 years, most of which were happy, and not all love stories last forever. We divorced after 17 years, but remained very close until he passed away five years ago. I’ve always had a great attraction to much older men. He was a great deal older than I. And after we divorced, I married another man of the same ‘vintage’, also a lot older than I, Tom Perkins. He was in my life for 32 years, 10 as a friend, 8 as husband, and another 14 as beloved, dear friend after we divorced. And much to my sorrow, and that of my children, Tom passed away last Tuesday night, after a long illness. He fought valiantly against the illness for the past seven years, and continued staunchly living life until the very end. And even knowing how ill he was, his death comes as a shock, and a great sadness to me and my children.
I feel incredibly lucky and blessed to have been loved by, and to have loved two very remarkable men.
When I met Tom, we were both happily married, I to John, and Tom to a lovely woman he was married to for 32 years. We were in a group of friends. Ten years later, my marriage to John fell apart, Tom’s wife died at the same time, and he told me he wanted to go out with me. And in very old fashioned style, out of respect for my failed marriage, and his late wife, we waited a whole year to date—-we didn’t even have lunch. And after that, our romance began which led to our eventual marriage.
When I met Tom he was already a legendary man, larger than life. And without question he was a genius, the only one I have ever known. A graduate of Harvard and MIT, he was by training a physicist, an engineer, an expert sailour, a sculptor in his spare time, an inventor (he invented an important laser in his garage at 27, that is still in use today). He loved harpsichords, and when he couldn’t find one he liked, he built his own. He became one of the first and most important venture capitalists in the early days of Silicon Valley, and started the firm of Kleiner, Perkins, Caufield and Byers, started famous companies, Genentech and Tandem among others, was deeply involved in high tech, provided the funding for Amazon, AOL, and later Google (and was able to make fun of himself—-he readily admitted with a chuckle that he had turned down the opportunity to invest in Apple, and thought it would go nowhere). But he recognized genius when the young men who started Google came to see him. He worked at Hewlitt Packard and later served on the board. He was a philanthropist, had a passion for sailing and sailboats, had a 300 ft. sailboat built and designed the system of sails himself with a completely innovative design (which everyone said wouldn’t work, and of course it did), that was a brilliant success. The boat is The Maltese Falcon, which was and is as legendary as he was, and an amazing boat. It could be sailed by a single person, and the sails furled and unfurled by pressing a single button. He used to wake up in the morning, thinking of physics theorems to share with the physicists at MIT. And like all truly brilliant people, he was able to explain intensely complicated concepts with total simplicity and make them chrystal clear. He had no need to make anyone feel stupid by complicating things or using words no one could understand. He wrote a novel (determined to show me that he could do it better), and wrote his memoirs. He was fierce and funny and brilliant, and a terror at liar’s dice. I can’t think of many things he couldn’t do, he had a vast number of talents. When we began our life together, he was already retired, and I had a house full of very young children, and he spent most of his time on his boats. I joined him as often as I could, which wasn’t often enough, but I was driving car pools and raising kids and he was past that time of his life. He had two grown children by then. When his wife died, I tried to fix him up with a widowed friend who had 2 children—-and he told me he would never go out with a woman with children—-so he fell in love with a woman who had 9 of them, one of the ironies of life.
Tom was the embodiment of the American dream. Born in the Depression, he grew up simply, his high school teachers recognized him as a genius, and begged his parents to send him to college. They refused and wanted him to become a TV repairman. One of his teachers applied to MIT for him, and he was accepted, graduated, and went to graduate school at Harvard, and his success took off after that. At 27, the laser he invented in his garage made him his first fortune, which became the cornerstone of what he did after that. His success is legendary, and huge. He was without a doubt the most brilliant man I’ve ever met. He wasn’t easy,—what genius is—I always said that I was sure Mrs. Beethoven didn’t have an easy time either, but I was thrilled to be with him. We had a somewhat bumpy road, but always loved each other. And we never had children together. And although ultimately the marriage was not a success, I felt privileged to have known him, and loved him, and to have been on the sidelines of his life. He always read my manuscripts, and enjoyed them. It was a meeting of minds and hearts, even though we parted company as a marriage after 8 years together, but we remained very close, and became part family, part best friends, and loved each other until the end. My children still love and admire him too. There was SOOO MUCH to admire about Tom, his brilliant mind, and on the right day, sailing somewhere, or on a good day, there was no one more wonderful to be around. Even though the marriage wasn’t a success, our bond to each other never waned. We stayed close until his very last day. We spoke several times in his last few days, had lunch the week before and thoroughly enjoyed it, and he sent me a tender email a few hours before he died.
I will never again know anyone as remarkable, there are few in the world. He was an astounding success, and talented in so many fields. He annoyed a lot of people with his bold outspoken ways. He was fearless, a warrior, a gladiator of sorts, always ready to ride into battle over what he believed. I knew him for half my life, and he was part love, part best friend. I will miss him terribly, and I thought you should know what a remarkable man he was. It’s rare to meet someone like him, and to be loved by a man like him, and love him. He was truly unique. His loss now shouldn’t come as a surprise, at his age and after a long illness, and yet it does. I am startled and sad and shocked, and grateful to have known him. It’s sad to think he is no longer in the world. He was a special and most unusual gift in my life….when we married, he complained that he wanted a small wedding, and kept telling me to make it smaller. He even cancelled our wedding plans twice, and when we did get married, he laughed heartily in his speech that he had down sized the wedding so much that he had accidentally eliminated the bride.
He was an amazing man, truly the Mount Everest of Men. I will miss his love and friendship and our long talks…..and I hope that he is in a place of peace. What a truly remarkable man. And what a loss for the world, and for his family and mine that he is no longer here. Have a good week!!!
love, Danielle
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Dear Danielle,
I recently picked up one of your books as I haven’t read for pleasure since having children. Mine are 11 and 16 now and life has had its peaks and valleys. Today I googled you. I was curious about the go to author that I have enjoyed since high school. I had no idea what an interesting life you have led. I stumbled upon your blog and was so moved by your incredible friend Tom. He reminds me of my father. My husband has said that none can measure up to your father. Though he is no genius, he can do anything. These people have a zest for life and are rare. We are so blessed to have known them. Our lives are richer because of it!! Thank you so much for sharing. You truly have made my day.
Sincerely,
Diana
My thoughts are with you. Peace be with you and your family. Love Stella
Danielle,
What a wonderful and moving tribute to an intriguing man! I am very sorry for your loss, and my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Regards,
Elaine
This is beautiful, Danielle!
May his soul rest in peace.
Love
Asavari
Good Morning, As I am in the season of life for losing loved ones (67 yrs old), I’m finding that writing is very therapeutic for me as I’m sure it is for you. Thanks for sharing the essence of this gifted soul. Your writing inspires me as I write a tribute to a dear friend who passed recently. I am also doing a Bible Study on Ecclesiastes on the meaning of life; how interesting a perspective that Solomon, out of his deep wisdom, offers. Your dear friend Tom seems to have lived an awesome and eclectic life and you have chronicled it well. Reminds me of the closing song of the musical Hamilton: “Who lives, who dies, who tells your story?”
With much appreciation, Catherine
Dear Danielle,
Condolences on the loss of this treasured man. Your life is just so amazingly interesting!!!! I’m happy you had time with him and I’m sure you enriched his life as much. You are such a special lady.
Love,
Lorraine
Really beautiful tribute. Thank you for sharing this.
Fondly,
Karen
Beautiful tribute. And it is truly a privelge to read about your personal news whenever you decide to share it with us on this blog. Thank you for giving us an insight into Mr. Perkins. He sounded a lot like my stepfather’s uncle – they share the same zest for life, although my uncle is nowhere close to Mr. Perkins in terms of genius. My condolences on your loss of a friend.
Danielle,
Sorry for not responding earlier but I was also in mourning from the tragedy in Orlando.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
I liked the following part from your comments above:
“I will never again know anyone as remarkable, there are few in the world. He was an astounding success, and talented in so many fields. He annoyed a lot of people with his bold outspoken ways. He was fearless, a warrior, a gladiator of sorts, always ready to ride into battle over what he believed.”
You will always be connected to Tom through love.
I found the following quote from you that is also a part of me now from all the hardship and adversity I have been through. It is what sustained me and is worth re-posting:
“I think the one recurring theme that I didn’t used to be aware of is that I try to give people hope, … I think that’s so important. Love is wonderful, but hope is more important. Without hope you can’t live.” – Danielle Steel
Hope is showing up for the hard work.
I just finished my last day of teaching English before my students graduate. I asked them students to tell me one thing that they learned or will differently from being in my class other than the subject matter. They responded: “The power of hope” and to “Never, never, never give up.”
God bless you and the the people we serve.
Truth, Wisdom, Love and Sincerity, to ALL Mankind.
Rob Scott
Oaxaca, Mexico
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. Losing a dear friend or loved one is always difficult.
My heart goes out to you and your family, I lost the love of my life suddenly three years ago, we were together 37 years although we had no children together he adored the three I had from a previous marriage and they him. I hold fast to the wonderful memory’s we shared while traveling the world he was in the Navy.
Wow!! So sorry for your loss. I feel like I just read one of your novels. What a amazing story. Love getting to know you on a more personal level. Prayers to you and the families emvolved.
love & hugs to you all at this sad time xxx
So sorry for you loss. I know you have wonderful memories.
Thinking of you at this sad time.lovely tribute xx
Dear Mrs. Danielle Steele, i’m so sorry about your former husband. It’s such a loss for his family also, a real sad news. May he rest in peace. Stay strong for your children, yourself,your friends also.Sincerely, Kng
So very sorry for your families loss. It sounds like his legend will live on.
This is beautiful, I really hope this piece is as therapeutic for you as it was for me. Just recently lost a grandparent and you have just motivated to write a piece. I love you Danielle and my mum sends her love also.
Feyikemi
Nigeria, Africa.
i an so sorry for your loss. i won’t say he’s in a better place but it sounds like he made the world a better place. what a wonderful way to eulogize him. once again i am so sorry for you and your family. my heart breaks for you. you are in my prayers.
Dear Danielle,
I never dare to write in your blog, but this story deserved it. It made me feel sad and happy at the same time, sad for the end of life of a life companion, but happy because I think this kind of people always make us smile even when they are not around anymore. I love this tribute to him. I’m sorry for your loss.
Best regards from Spain and sorry for the mistakes (that’s why always buy your books in english, I’m still improving!!)
Tania Carretero
Danielle…what a wonderful love and friendship story. I’m sure he felt as blessed to have you in his life and you felt blessed by him…I’m feeling sad for you and your family today…but memories live on to eternity. God bless you and your lovely family..m
I have admired you for more years than I choose to remember. You are a beautiful soul inside & outside. I have been an avid reader of your books for many years. I have tremendous respect for you as a writer, mother & woman. I am sorry for your loss & thank you for sharing your heartfelt story with us. My deepest sympathy, Sherri Hauptly
I am so sorry for your loss and the loss of a great friend. They always say first and foremost you must be friends. Obviously that is why you maintained this remarked relationship with him. As I read this I believe I can feel his presence in alot of books that you wrote. We should all be so lucky to have that kind of inspiration in our lives. Take care of yourself.
Dear Danielle;
I’m so very sorry for your loss.He was indeed a very remarkable man but I dare say you are so yourself!You are an emblem for women, being a wonderful mother of so many successful children and also very very successful in your profession and a beautiful suol with a great heart full of unconditional love.A great human being!No wonder you were loved by 2 great men!I’ve read not all but 80 of your books and loved them all and learned a lot from them.Each book other than it’s being a huge entertainment ,has also ,more importantly,given me a good lesson for my own life.I admire you so much and hope you’ll
recover from this loss and sad moment promptly and fully while your loved lost ones will remain always alive in your heart for sure. I apologise for any mistake you’d find in my English because I’m born and raised in Iran and am living in Italy for the last 33 years, so English is my third but most loved language and I practice it mostly by reading novels.
Best wishes.?
So sorry for your loss my prayers are for you and your family. Me he rest in peace.And God bless
I have loved you forever it seems and have collected ALL your books :). The most moving is the one on the life and love of your son. It was in those moments that I felt more of a part of your life. I would later go through the same loss of my son and immediately pick your book up again. So thank you for this today, letting us in and allowing us to experience a bit of a man you loved so dearly :). These are the moments of life…heart to heart. I am grateful! Much LOVE to you, your family, his family and all who are suffering from his loss.
Chère Danielle,
Merci de nous faire partager des bons ou mauvais moments de votre vie. En ces circonstances je vous adresse toutes mes condoléances et mes pensées vont vers vous et votre famille pour la perte de Tom. J’espère que vous même vous allez bien.
Cordialement
Muriel (une fidèle lectrice du Nord de la France)
Where do I begin, I am short of words for my most favorite writer, my condolences to you and your family, so sorry about your loss, I am sure what you have written about him will help release some pain and comfort, cos you have told us what an extra ordinary man Tom was, take heart and take care of yourself dear.
Dear Danielle ~ Heartfelt sympathy in your loss of your great friend and husband. We’re very much interested in your personal life, so never excuse sharing with us. Hold on to your dear memories. I’m sure his life was as enriched by you as yours was by his. Thinking of you and your family.
I’m so sorry for your loss & your children’s loss.
I do know these next few days, weeks, months will be hard.
June 2015 I lost my husband of 40 yrs.
Hang in there.
Terri Jones
So sorry for your loss. What a wonderful tribute to a man that was once your husband and became your best friend. That does not always happen after a divorce.
Love your Books and am reading Undercover now.
Will keep you and your family in my prayers.
Sincerely,
Faye Clendenin
Dear Danielle,
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your loved one. It sounds like he was a wonderful person and I am sure you are going to miss him very much.
My heart goes out to you and your family.
May he Rest in Peace and my prayers for you.
Thank you for sharing this with us.
Helen Craig
Hello Danielle
Many years ago when I was only 12 years old I remember emailing you regarding your book about Nick, I remember the response i had and how happy I was because my idol had replied to my email.
Since then I have moved from Portugal to the UK, Im a qualified professional and I spend my time between work and my 16 month old baby…But one thing that has never changed is my passion and curiosity for your books…Your books continue to touch me in so many different ways and Im glad it does
Im sorry you lost Tom, an important person in your life. Be strong as the brave woman you have always been…
My thoughts and prayers are with you and thanks for sharing yours and Toms life.
Sincerely
Mara Santos
Dear Danielle,
You have a most beautiful heart and thank you for sharing something so very personal with such love ! I love how you said he is Mt Everest of men! I’m sure his love for you was grand also! Your books give me hope and YOU give me hope to love again after a long marriage that ended in divorce! Many wanted me to stay in the marriage and remain unhappy but I couldn’t do it! I have 2 wonderful grown sons and I will treasure that relationship for giving me them forever, but it wasn’t a happy life! Stay strong and I send peace and prayers to you ! Sincerely , Gina
My Sincere Sympathy to you Danielle and all of those whose lives this wonderful man has touch.May he RIP,you will see him again some day,My prayers are with all of you.
I am sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Tom’s children. May his soul rest in perfect peace
What a great tribute. I am truly sorry for your loss. May Tom RIP
So sorry to hear about your loss of Tom he sounds like a wonderful remarkable man our thoughts and prays are with you and your family at this sad time xx
Danielle,
I am so sorry for your loss. It is hard when someone touches you and your family to move on but reflecting on the impact he had on everyone is like a story unto itself. You are a truly amazing women for sharing with us. You are the best, I love your books and the adventures you take us on and the places we get to see through your wonderful skills.
I pray for you and the families. Hold onto those dear memories. I hope to meet you some day!
Take care,
Sue
I am so very sorry for the loss of your beautiful love. Your writing is so moving , brought me to tears. I have read every book you have written, and loved everyone. You too are quite remarkable women! Yours very truly, Pam Byman.
I have read almost all your books and a big fan of you. Sorry for the loss. May his soul rest in peace.
Dear Daniella, so sorry for your loss. May you all find some peace with each other and family and friends. May he rest in peace.
Sincerely,
Maria
Thoughts and prayers are with you! Always love your books and, no surprise, even your tribute is eloquent!
Danielle,
You have been in my life since I was a teenager reading “Going Home”. I feel like I know you and I’m honored that you would share your personal loss and thoughts with us. We are your fans and we love you very much. I remember going to San Francisco several years ago with my husband. It is his favorite city. I was excited to see where you live and did get to see the outside of your house. It was the only thing in SF that I was excited to see.
Tom sounds like he was someone very special. You were very lucky to meet him. And he would be honored to see all of the beautiful words that you wrote about him. Hugs!
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and all of his family. May he RIP … Thank you for sharing your beautiful story about him.
Dear Danielle,
So sorry for you and your families loss. Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers.He sure sounded like a lot of fun and love. I hope you all find comfort in the days to come. I love and enjoy reading your books.
Love,Bonnie
What a wonderful tribute. I too divorced a great man who I still love just couldn’t live with each other. Glad you could remain so close as a lot of people can’t take care xoxo
The two of you sound remarkable, so great to give back in ask many ways you are in my prayers and so sweet to hear of so many wonderful memories that I am sure will be cherished forever.
So very sorry for the loss ok Tom. Your life together made everyone so happy. May the grief in your heart soon be replaced with loving memories
He was a rare diamond and an extraordinary man. My condolences.
My beloved Danielle,
You have always been a part of our household. I follow and read all your books religiously. They keep me out of trouble. I thank God for your life and I continue to pray for good health and long life for you.
Your beloved Tom is smiling passionately down at you. He loves your tribute about him. He is indeed a unique person. He is with the Lord now and at peace and no more in pain. Take heart.
Lots of love
Bridget.???
Sorry for your loss
What a truly remarkable man you had in your life Danielle, not everyone has the good fortune to meet and marry someone like him. Our sympathy goes out to you and your family at this very sad time.
Danielle, so very sorry to read about your loss. He was a very special person.
Danielle,I’m so sorry for your loss. I hope your memories of dear Tom can help bring some comfort to you. He sure sounds like a wonderful man and the world will be less without him. God Bless you!!!
Your fan forever,
Joan French
Danielle,
I’m so very sorry for your loss.
Maureen
Beautiful tribute! Sorry about your loss!
Dear Danielle, am so sorry for your loss. Tom was actually a good man from your write up. May he find eternal rest in the land beyond. I also hope that one day I will be an author just like you. I love writing, though I need a coach and inspiration to write
So very sorry for your loss, your children’s loss. Thank you for sharing this story of your love and friendship for this man.
What a beautiful story. Thank you for sharing.
Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
What a wonderful yet sad story I’m very sorry for your loss.I have been reading your your wonderful books since I was a teenager and now my grandson’s are teenagers! I would get lost in your books for hour’s! Thank you for sharing. Love D.M.G.
I send my sincere condolences to you and your children.
Such a loss is great, pleasse take time to grieve. I totally believe in the stages of grief as i am sure you do as well. Be gentle with yourself…much love, ts
I’m sorry for your loss. I lost my husband 23 years ago, it’s still very hard for me. May you find peace & comfort in knowing such an incredible husband & friends that Tom was. My deepest sympathy.
Dear Danielle,
Sounds like you found your one in a million. One in a lifetime love. There are so many out there that would love to have this, even if it didn’t last the lifetime.
To love and be loved like that is just awesome.
Sounds like to me, you may have your next book in the making.
So glad you posted this, so we could all know what your going though.
Love reading your books.
Prayers with you and the family for your family!
Jean
Danielle, I read your first book as a teenager, when it was first published. I have read every single one over and over again, including your brave story of Nick’s life. You are obviously a very loving and caring person.
Heartfelt condolences to you and each of your wonderful children, on the loss of Tom. You have all had so much loss in your lives. It was a pleasure to read your tribute to John and now to Tom. You have a grace that isn’t common in divorcees. May your family continue to bring you joy and laughter, as you and I know that family is all that really counts in life! Lynne
God be with you and your children durning this lonely time of life our prayers are with you
i am so sorry for your loss ,i lost my husband 3 years ago and still miss him so much ,thinking of you and your family in my prayers ,god bless xoxo
so sorry for your loss you are in my prayers xoxo
I am so sorry for your lost.What a wonderful legacy and a full life he lived.May the peace of God surround you and all who Loved him.During this difficult time of grief…
I has seen most of your books in movies and my husband and I name one of our daughter after you, she is smart, talented, gifted, and loves to read, I admire you and now reading this about your friend most and know what it means been there, God bless you
I have read this in its entirety and am very sorry for your loss.
Dear Danielle,
What a heartfelt tribute to Tom. I, the reader, felt every ounce of love, respect and admiration you held in your heart for him. This is the reason I devour each of your novels. Your writing stirs my soul and I believe. Your family and friends are lucky to have you, and I’m sure Tom was just as proud of you as you were of him. Thank you for opening up your personal life and sharing with your readers. We love you too!
Sincerely, Melody
Dear Danielle, I am sorry for your loss. Knowing that Tom is no longer suffering should give you comfort. On another note, I enjoy your books and have read every one of them. They are the books I get lost in the fantasy and hope I would find the romance you write about. I have cried reading them and even miss my stop on Bart one time. Thank you for your writing talent and the books that I read
Danielle,
First let me say that I’m very sorry for your loss. My thoughts & prayers are with you and yours during this sad time. Second, I wanted to say that I have been reading your books since I was 13 (I’m now 37). My first novel of yours was Star and I was hooked. My mom had it on the bookshelf at home & I needed a book for silent reading in school. I have gone on to buy every book you’ve written, all of them in hardcover. Yours are the only books I buy still in book format, everyone else’s that I read are now digital on my Nook. Thank you for all the years of reading pleasure.
I am so sorry for your loss Danielle. I hope you and your family have lots more memories. May he R.I.P. now and have the angels watching over him and your family.
Sorry for your loss. As usual you have a way with words. With this writing you made Tom Perkins proud.
Thank you for sharing a most personal & intimate part of your life. I am sorry for your loss. Sounds like the world lost a truly remarkable person. He would have been honored & proud, at the tribute you paid him.
So sorry to hear that…but that’s a beautiful way of giving tribute to a man who completed a part of you…as if I am reading a beautiful novel from my favorite author!
Thanks for sharing.
May Tom rest in peace.
Dear Danielle:
I am so sorry for your loss. Your love story is so beautiful and your words always lift up my soul. Life might end, but spirit stays forever, your amazing man maybe still up there, watching over you, love lasts forever!
Sue
Sorry for your lose, sounds like a book in writing. God bless you for your gift to write incredible novels.
Laine
Danille, I’m sorry for your loss, when someone s so full of your memories makes it hard to believe they aren’t in this world. I hope your heart heals……you will forever miss him, take care! Gloria
Dear Danielle, What a wonderful tribute you wrote for a man who undoubtedly made a difference in your life. So sorry for your loss. I, like many others who write to you, have enjoyed every book you have ever written (and have,, in fact purchased all of them, in hardback, except for the early ones which were only published in paper back). You, dear Danielle, have made a difference in my life. I have had a passion for reading since my first year in elementary school, and now, at the age of 72, can still be found reading a good book! Your novels are always a treat to look forward to, and never disappoint. Thank you. Luayne
Love ur love story…..
Danielle…I am so very sorry for your loss??
Danielle,
You’ve given such a lovely sentiment to your love. My condolences to you. May your heart find solace in your memories.
Thank you for sharing.
Pamela
Sending you and your family my heartfelt sympathy on your loss. I have every book you have publushed and they sit in order of publication on my book shelf.
I am so sorry for your loss.
So sorry for your loss! Losing someone you love is hard! My heart goes out to you your family!
Sorry for your loss of a good friend . Every time I pick up a book at the store I look for one of yours I have read everyone that you have wrote I love that each book you write is so different from the last, you must have a great imagination to do that . I’m looking forward to the next book .tks for them Always JAN F.
Danielle and Family,
I am saddened to read of your loss. Please except my deepest condolences on the passing of Tom. May he RIP with your beloved Nick.
Danielle I have been a fan since I was in high school. My mother and I shared the enjoyment of reading your books for almost 20 years till her passing. I have you’re books displayed as my proud collection of reading thru out the years. Thanks for the years of enjoyment, as I hope to share the love of reading with my grandson.
Deepest sorrows
Dee
So sorry for your loss. Life is good – but short. Our family lost a three year old boy who had cerebral palsy. He stopped breathing on Wednesday and could not be revived after 45 minutes. It was two days short of his fourth birthday. How do you explain this to his cousins in second grade and younger? The children have lots of questions.So do the parents. We can only be there for them.
Dear Danielle,
So sorry for you lose. May he rest in peace.
I enjoyed your tribute to a remarkable person although I didn’t know him you made me wish that i did. You were very lucky to have a love and friend like that and I’m sorry for your loss God bless you and your family. Sincerely, Donna Vandervort
I’m one of your readers. I admire very much your writing talent. The way u wrote about Tom is very touching, sad and impressive. However, if you speak like that on your X, why did you divorce him!!
What a beautiful tribute to your friend and former husband, Danielle. Only you could put words together like you can. I have every one of your books up to BLUE and you have given me so many happy hours reading them.
Thank you for sharing your life with all of us. You are a remarkable woman and my life is better because I have read so many of your books. God bless you, and your children and grandchildren, Danielle.
That you for sharing this with us. It is cathartic not only for you, but also for those of us reading it who have experienced great loss too. You’ve honored his memory with your kind and genuine words. Blessings to you and your family in this difficult time.
i really sad to news that an iron man gone these world. it is terribly revelation for world because he was genius and a genius person gone to these world.
Dear Ms Steel, My mother was a big fan of yours and past down to my self your books are amazing I’ve enjoyed them since I was a teen age I even named my first daughter after you. Sorry for your loss my mom passed in 2004 and I miss her so much.I’ll keep in in my prayers.
Our thoughts and prayers to you and both families! Always remember the wonderful times that all of you shared and what a great man he was! RIP Tom!
You are remarkable,may it be well with all of you in your sad moments.
I’m so sorry for your loss. My prayers go out to you and your children!
That was some amazing writing.To be loved and to have loved like that is amazing.I am so sorry for your loss and the loss for your children.My condolences.
Ms. Steele, you have my sincere condolences. Thank you for sharing your love letter to Tom with us. He truly was an extraordinary human being. You were blessed to have Tom in your life, and he was blessed to have you in his. Always remember Tom will forever remain in your heart. God bless you and your family.
My condolences to you and your family. Thank you for sharing such a private piece of your life. I’m sure he was as blessed with you, as you were with him. May his soul rest in peace. You have been my favorite author for as long as I can remember, your writing, I suppose is therapeutic during this time. God bless you and yours.
My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family , may God bless you with peace at this very sad time .
Danielle,
I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of your true friend in life, who played different roles in your life–husband, lover, friend! In life, we are very fortunate to have such a person in our lives! Tom sounds like an enormous “man of great measures” … a person who gave you so many memories and love through commitment and friendship! You are blessed and so was he blessed! It is amazing and wonderful that you both were able to give each other so much of yourselves through so many years—everyone’s dream! You, in yourself are amazing, so Tom was very fortunate as well…he is no longer on this earth; however, he will remain a part of you for the rest of your years! He will constantly remind you of your blessed life and the love you both shared will continue forever. Your books are an inspiration to all of us who read them … I live for new ones!! Have an awesome/amazingly great day and I hope you can find comfort in knowing the greatest man on earth!
Love,
Diane
What a wonderful tribute to a person who has been such an important part of your life. I am sure he would have felt equally blessed to have had you in his life also. May all those wonderful memories bring you and your family comfort. Thankyou for sharing.
Dear Danielle,
I have always love you as my best author from my childhood days until now. I’m sorry for your lost and i pray that God keep you strong as you mourn him.
love u,
Alphonzi
Danielle, this is such a beautiful tribute to very important men in your life! The story is so beautiful!
You are a very special person! I enjoy your books so much. I can’t wait for the next book each time. I often say I would like to read an autobiography of your life. I hope you decide to do that someday!
Thank you for being a part of my life !!
Wow, what a terrific memory to have. So many never really do get married. Almost makes me want to get married. He had a cute sense of humor — downsizing the wedding! I would think a successful marriage is sort of like climbing Mount Everest. God bless you & thank you for sharing this treasurable story. May you have peace in the sweet love & memories & eternity to come! ~Love~
Heartfelt condolences & many hugs (( ))for the loss you just experienced.May you find comfort and peace in the wonderful memories of all the good moments you have shared with Tom.
It seems all of us have felt the great loss of those people in our lives we deeply love. I think each one of these people have contributed something in our lives to many us different and hopefully better people. Sorry for your loss.
Dear Danielle,
Thanks for reading your fine words. Always a pleasure ?
Sincerely,
Anni
i enjoy your blog and share your friendship with TOM, MY EXHUSBAND died BUT WE REMAIN FRIENDS AFTER THE DIVORCE. We have1
DAUGHTER miss you MR ANGEL ROSADO MIAMI,FL
you are one of my favorite arthurs i don’t just read the books i collect them as well Love myself some Danielle Steele
JUNE 21,2016 10:20 AM
Dear Danielle,
I’m very sorry to hear of your great loss. Tom sounds like a most amazing and inspiring man who lived life to the fullesf. Bless you and your family.
Condolences,
L
I am very sorry for your loss and my thoughts and prayers are with you.
It’s a beautiful tribute.
May his soul rest in peace.
Regards.
Chitra.
Matale.
Sri Lanka.
Danielle, I am so very sorry for this deep loss to you and your family. Your beautiful words in his honor were so heart warming and his memory will be cherished by many of your fans, including myself. Thank you for sharing a part of your heart to all of us. My love and prayers are with you.
Dear Danielle,
I am so sorry to hear about your great loss. I know how would it be to loose someone closest to our heart. I have cried for five years. But life has to go on. It is good to share the pain, which will make way for expedited healing process. People who are genius and talents certainly occupy great space in the hearts of the people. Because of the valuable contributions that he made to the world, he will always be remembered. May his soul find peace. Please keep well and happy.
Always, from the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan
Manish Subba
Danielle I am so sorry for your loss my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
Sorry for Your loss. I am sure as I can see from your blog you have many wonderful memories of Tom.
Sincere sympathy to You and Your family.
Marilyn
So sorry for your loss. My condolences to you and your family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Dearest Danielle, I am so sorry to hear of your loss of Mr. Perkins. Praying for comfort for you, your children and all those who loved him. As you know very well, you are greatly blessed to have loved and been loved by two such remarkable men. You are a geuine treasure to so openly share your joys and your sorrows with us, your fans.
You were kind enough to write me a personal letter back several years ago following my Mother telling you about how I take time for your books, even with four children (including toddler girls) and a stressful job. I’ve since retired and enjoy your novels even more.
Sincerest sympathies,
Danada
What A beautiful tribute to a Man you loved, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Your life is so interesting and your books inspire me always!!
Merci
Karin
So very Sorry for your loss May your families find comfort in your faith.
What a great and wonderful tribute! My thoughts are with you Danielle. Peace be with you.
So sorry for your loss. Praying for you and your family.
Beautiful tribute. You will always have the memories. May he rest in peace.
Tom sounds like a wonderful man. I am so sorry for your loss.
Danielle, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My father was a remarkable person and a brilliant musician. He was the band director at the Florida School for the deaf and blind. He played at Carnegie Hall, Jacksonville Symphony and some of his blind students became famous, such as Nathaniel Roberts. Also, I know you are familiar with Ray Charles and there were others.He wrote music in Spanish and spoke German He taught music in our prison, when he had time.He was a pilot in the Navy. He was the most kind and loving person. I was so fortunate to have had such a wonderful father. I feel blessed to have had him for my father. They are few.Thank you Danielle for your wonderful books and I am looking forward to my pre ordered book, “Magic.”
So sorry for your loss and I’m sure he will be honored as further influence on your remarkable writing. God Bless you
So sorry for your loss. He sounds like a remarkable man.
Dear Danielle,
So sorry for your loss. May you and your family find comfort in knowing that he is now at peace.
B.Morris/ Bahamas: June.21.2016
Thank you for sharing with your readers. He sounds like an amazing man to have known. Prayers for you and your children.
THANK YOU FOR SHARING THIS PART OF YOU LIFE WITH ME I TRULY ENJOYED IT AND FELT YOUR WERE REAL YOU ARE A BEAUTIFUL PERSON AND REAL AND MAKES ME HAPPY TO HAVE ALL YOUR BOOKS YOUR HAVE WROTE ALL IN HARD BACK TO SHARE YOUR LIFE THRU YOU ARE A INSPIRATION TO ALL WHO READ THIS AND YOUR BOOKS SO SORRY ABOUT BOTH YOUR LOSSES OF WONDERFUL MEN IN YOUR LIFE PLEASE TAKE CARE OF YOUR YOUR SELF AND MAY THE LORD SHINE DOWN ON YOU AND PROTECT YOU
YOUR FRIEND JUANITA ST JOHN
Godspeed to you and your family. It’s once in a lifetime men like this grace our lives. To own the memories…what a true gift.
~ Sherrie
Danielle, That was the most beautiful piece I have had the pleasure of reading. My sincere condolences to you and to your family.
Tom will always live on in your heart. Because of that, Tom will have peace. You can still have those long talks with him too because he will always be listening.
I am so very sorry of your loss.
Shalom, I understand to love an older man. I have been in a 32 year relationship and 16 year age diffrence. I knew him from the bank I work and we were stock holders of the neighborhood bank. 2 years went by & a co-work told us we should really go on a real date. In which we did! 30 years later we was the 1st 4 Gay couples in the City of St Louis on 6-24-2014 and a year later Supreme Court made it a law of the land.
Gays (lgbt) to be married! What happen in Orlando Florida. 49 die /53 hurt..
Your book COMING Out help me when I came out to my Mother that i was GAY…
Thank you……
T
Ps When u no something going to happen u r never ready.
Dear Danielle it so sad and yet so at peace to here the love and appreciation you have for this man even after you divorced him
Your compassion and kindness that you have reflects on what you write and it has inspired me to allways give more and appreciate the little or lots that we have since we font know how long we will have it
Hope henis at peace because i know you are
The memories will allways live on us!
My prayers are with you and the family!
Wow, what an amazing tribute to Tom. I am sure it makes every reader sad that he is gone and more curious than ever about his great accomplishments. I am an avid reader of your novels and enjoy posting on your Facebook page. I have even seen your video interviews on YouTube.
Keep up the great work!! You are a terrific author.
Maria Hodges
author of “The Promise”
I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers for you and your family.
Dear Danielle,
I have become your fan recently and made every effort to read all of your books I can find. I also borrowed a dozen of audio books from our local libraries to listen while I was driving and totally enjoyed them. I knew a bit of Tom from your Book “His Bright Light’ to remember you Son Nick. I can also see a bit of Tom from the ex-husband of the lady photographer in “Matter of the hearts”. Your tribute to your ex husband Tom is so heart-felt written with your own beautiful style. I admire your talents and your integrity shining in every of your books. Please accept my deepest condolence for losing your beloved ex-husband and lifetime friend Tom. He will be always remembered in your heart and your books.
With Much Love and deep appreciation from Helen in Melbourne, Australia
Dear Ms. Steel,
So sorry for your loss. You have no idea how heartbroken I’m to learn about his death today. I was telling a friend of mine today that the goal of my life is to be like Mr. Perkins. And don’t know why I googled to see how he was doing and learned about his passing. Since then I’m so sad. I never cried knowing anybody died, today is an exception. I really wanted to meet him and have a chat, but alas. I pray that he rests in peace. Very few people might realize silicon valley is, what it is because of him. Thanks for this wonderful write up.
Best
im very sorry for your loss i to married an older man who turned out to be the best man ive ever known and he to can be very difficult at times but im very thabkful to have him in my life as my husband and my best freind im just sitting here thinking how everything youve said about tom sounds so relateable to how i feel about John thats my husband’s name anyway instead of going on and on ill close by saying im sending you all my prayers im so sorry that you lost such an incredible man!
Sorry for the loss.I know what it feels to be in lose of a loved ones. but congratulation for your incredible series I started reading your books at a tender age . at 16 yrs, likes of Danielle steel ( star). To now midlife woman I still do.in fact my little sister nicknamed me Daniella till today wherever we meet.that tribute is worth to the departure of Tom,since according to the read all women would wish to have such a talented & adventures man.wish u feel close to him the rest of your life all the best dear.lots of love grace from Kenya.