1303  Nestor Ray Has Left Us

Date: Thu, 22 May 2003 14:03:32 -0700
From: lindavalentino <lindavalentino@PRODIGY.NET>
Subject: Nestor Ray Has Left Us

Dear Friends:
Sadly, the tango world has lost another great milonguero, maestro and
friend. I just heard from Patricia Garcia (Nestor's ex-wife) that Nestor Ray
died just a few hours ago. He had apparently been in a coma since yesterday
or the day before. At the very least, he was able to return to his beloved
Buenos Aires and die with his family near him. Thanks to those of you who
helped him over the past year while he was battling the cancer that
destroyed his body. Before he returned to Buenos Aires he told me how much
the support of his students, friends and colleagues meant to him. Those of
us who were present at Norah's Place for the little benefit that we
organized for Nestor a few weeks ago will never forget seeing him dance for
the last time. As frail as he was, he danced a tango with Guillermina
Quiroga in his signature rhythmic, playful style. Although it was obviously
a tremendous strain on him, he then insisted on dancing a milonga. It was
something to see! And the love and respect obvious on Guillermina's face as
she followed him was incredibly touching. Nestor taught me so much. I know I
am a better dancer and teacher because of him. I will miss him.
--Linda Valentino
Los Angeles