Annabel Findley

Most people enter a business and don't think twice about who the receptionist is.  Annabel Findley was different.

When you went to Honda Center to see the Ducks or another NHL team on business the way I have for years, you had to get buzzed in by Annabel.

In 2007, a complete overhaul of the club's offices and lobby area took place at Honda Center.  Instead of being buzzed in, you'd see security upstairs and then you'd take the elevator downstairs.  Upon stepping out of the elevator and into the Ducks beautiful lobby, there she was; "Hi M, you here to see Doug?"  Annabel knew you were there on business but she ALWAYS knew who you were and greeted you each time, even if you had been there 3 or 4 times that day.

Today I woke to a story in the OC Register that Annabel had passed away in her sleep a week ago.  I didn't really "know" Annabel, but, never came across anyone, let alone a receptionist, who knew just about everyone by name when they came out of that elevator.  She was always so nice to me with the way she had greeted me for years! 

I hadn't been to see the Ducks or any opponent at Honda Center since I visited the Kings on February 23rd.  Despite me visiting Honda less and less the past few years, this visit was no different than in the past.  Took the elevator downstairs, stepped out, and greeted "Hi M, you here to see Chris (Kincaid) or Doug?" 

I told her I was going to see Chris as I had business with the Kings that afternoon.

On my way out, I thanked her and unfortunately, that would be the last time I would see her.

I've had a hard time today having read of her passing.  There are so many bad people out there in the world and they live on and cause problems, yet this sweet lady is no longer with us.

I know my next visit to Honda Center will be difficult knowing Annabel won't be there to greet me, and that I won't be able to say hello back and tell her who I'm there to see.  However, I'll always remember her, her sweet voice, and her unmistakable smile.