Josiah David Berger 08/14/1990 - 08/14/2009

James Fleming · Post by **James Fleming** » 27 Aug 2009 7:40 am

Two weeks ago my son jimmy lost his best friend to an automobile crash. Josiah Berger was a fine young man and will be missed by all who knew him.

During the week he was in Vanderbilt Medical Center and the week that followed his death, I needed a distraction from the sadness. I decided to honor him by building a Cigar Box Lap Steel.

Weeks before, I had told Jimmy and Josiah that I was kicking around the idea of building a Cigar Box Lap Steel. They both snickered, as they knew I had never built an instrument before.

Josiah was signed up as an organ donor. After his death, his family was told that 77 peoples lives were going to be positively impacted by his unselfish decision to be an organ donor. His Heart still beats, his lungs still breathe, and his eyes still see

My first Guitar is the "SIAH 77" in honor of Josiah and the organ recepiants that his body benefited.

Rest in peace Josiah, you live in heaven and earth as well.

Love,
Jim Fleming

Jeff Evans · Post by **Jeff Evans** » 27 Aug 2009 9:07 am

Jim,

What an elegant, tangible tribute.

Likewise, organ donation is also a way to unselfishly let the music play on for others.

Ron Page · Post by **Ron Page** » 27 Aug 2009 5:59 pm

God bless you Jim and Siah too. It's a sad story ending on the upbeat. I'm glad to know his heart is still beating. I've checked the little box on my driver's license too, but they won't be getting a real low mileage unit by the time I've used it up.

Ken Lang · Post by **Ken Lang** » 27 Aug 2009 7:13 pm

I write this as I too am a recipent of someones generosity in organ donation. I would not be here....
It is sad to lose such a young man, but through his kindness, 77 people are thankfull for his donations.
God bless Josiah.