Michael A. Lutz never knew much about his great-uncle Orbie, who died fourteen years before he was born. But his relatives in Peniel, Texas, all swore that Orbie had been done in by foul play, lending his persona an aura of mystery. In this warm memoir, Lutz uses the ghost of Orbie as his unconventional pen pal as he shares fond memories from his youth and explores the ups and downs of retirement after a long career as a professional sportswriter.
With the same trademark humor and style that distinguished his sportswriting, Lutz focuses primarily on the enjoyable changes that aging brings. He writes about his attendance at his high-school reunion, his membership in the Old Geezers Shootist Society, his service in the Flounder Wars, his workouts in the Wheezy Geezer Gymnasium, and more. He also reminisces about summer jobs, childhood buddies, and the cascade of memories an old Coke bottle can unleash.
In addition to lighter topics, Lutz explores his grief after his mother's death, his spirituality, and his struggles with prostate cancer. Even in the midst of life-changing events, Lutz sees the positive side of things. His bright perspective makes Dear Orbie an insightful and engaging read.
About the Author: Michael A. Lutz spent thirty-eight years writing about sporting events for the Associated Press in Louisville, Kentucky, and Dallas and Houston, Texas. Prior to that he wrote for three local newspapers.
Lutz began life in Peniel, Texas. His family later moved to the Rio Grande Valley in the southern part of the state. Lutz was entranced by the minor league baseball games he attended with his grandfather. His biggest dream was to play for the Cleveland Indians, but his high school career in football and baseball was forgettable, and he never played professional sports. Instead, he chose to write about them.
Lutz received his degree from Texas Tech University. He is now enjoying retirement with his wife, Rita, in Montgomery County, Texas.
