Stroll down memory lane with Dick Clark and American Bandstand

EDGEWATER -- When I heard about Dick Clark’s passing this morning, I felt as if I had lost a family member. He had been very much a part of my life since American Bandstand so long ago.

I remember rushing home from school to tune in to watch him and my favorite dancers to see who was paired together, to learn the new dances while dancing with the doorknob (come on ladies you know we all did that) and to watch the performers he had as guests and he had them all.

Dick Clark was so at ease on camera and with people of all ages. He knew his music and loved it as much as we did. I admired him in the way he kept making apperances after his stroke, especially   with the New Year’s Rockin' Eve shows, even though it was hard to watch him struggle to speak.

Even then, Dick Clark was still charismatic and an old friend. Recently I have been watching him on reruns of his old show $25,000  Pyramid on the Game Show Network. His fun easy-style put the contestants at ease and he managed to snag many of the most prominent television personalities for guest players.

When I learned of Dick Clark’s passing this morning, it hit me. He knew his guests and was liked by all. I never heard a bad word spoken about him -- no scandals or carousing around on his wife; just a decent hard working guy who loved people and his work.

Dick Clark you will be so very much missed by legions of fans and friends. My condolences to his family and may he rest in peace.