I messaged Phred on FB and hoped he was feeling better. This is the last message/post I ever read from him:

I've felt a lot better.
Headed back to the hospital Friday ... probably to start dialysis.
Happie "new" KatKid!
That was November 4 at 11:06 am.

I wasn't sure he knew about Zoe, and am glad to read he did. I had sent him a Christmas card last week with the pics in it, but I doubt it got there in time.

He was solid, down to earth...and totally irreplaceable.

{{{hugz}}} to Phred...I hope he gets them.