Johnny was my 2nd oldest friend.  His father was my nose doctor.  When I mentioned to his father that we were moving to Forest Hills, he arranged for me to meet his son, Johnny.  This was 1945.

It turns out that we had very similar backgrounds.  Both from Vienna, Austria.  Johnny was born 2 weeks after me.  We both came to the United States in 1938.

I recall that when we met, Johnny was carrying around a roll of pennies, in case he was attacked by other kids.  That led to working out with springs, and then weights.  Johnny also studied various martial arts.

He could lift twice his body weight over his head.  He used to show off by bending thick nails with his hands alone.  Until one of the went through his skin.

I recall a tattoo on his left shoulder labelled "Joan", although in later years he denied having it.

So sorry to hear of his demise.  

Rest well, Johnny; you deserve it.

Dear Johnny, you were my oldest friend.  We met in 1945 and have remained in touch, on and off, for all these years.  I was born about 2 weeks before you.  We came to the United States around the same time.
Thanks to your father being my ENT specialist, we met.  I still recall going to him on West 72nd St. in NY, then in Forest Hills after you moved.  
Also recall you're starting your physical training by working with springs, then weights.  At one time you could lift twice your body weight over your head.  Also recall your bending nails and how one pierced your hand.   You also learned Asian fighting techniques, such as Judo.

But all this was long ago.
Very sorry to hear of your passing.  Perhaps we'll meet again in Heaven.

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John Pollak

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John Pollak

September 8, 1933 – June 14, 2022

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