Remembering 'Cousin' Bob

We never met Bob Barker, but he always felt like family.

The iconic host of TV's longest-running game show, The Price Is Right, who recently passed at age 99, was always present whenever we were filling out an application or checking in to a hotel.

As soon as anyone saw our last name was Barker, the next question became predictable:

"Any relation to Bob?"

I already my standard comeback ready:

"If so, he's not claiming us."

This little dialogue exchange became a standard part of all our road trips. And when it didn't happened, we kind of missed it.

If we had been related, I would have been proud. Like Bob, we are avid animal lovers. Plus he just always seemed like a nice, genuine guy -- the kind this old world needs more than ever.

Rest in peace, Bob -- from your maybe, long-lost cousin.