For Haven't Forgotten wondering whether to tell his late friend's family about naming his son after theirs, yes, do it quickly and with all due sincerity -- face to face if possible. I was shy about telling my beloved great-uncle's daughter about do the same with her father. She was so touched and delighted that my regret was in not doing it much sooner.

I waited until a family funeral more than a decade after Uncle Leo's death. Standing before his daughter, I felt compelled to say how much I respected and loved him and how my youngest carries his name.

Like Haven't Forgotten, I had not kept the contact I should with that side of the family that had been so important in my childhood. I say the sooner the better. Just be prepared for tears and hugs.