Tony Snow, Davidson College grad and former White House press secretary, has passed away. He was 53.

Back in the 90s I spent a few days in Montana with Snow and several other DC journo types at a snow-dusted ranch, guests of the Property and Environment Research Center. Tony was warm and funny. We had more than a couple chuckles over the religion of basketball in North Carolina and importance of having a BA degree in philosophy, the later an affliction we shared.

I particularly remember careening down a mountain with Tony in the back of Chevy Suburban during an impulsive decision to trek two hours to Yellowstone. Scenery was amazing even at 80 mph.

I would go on to bump into Tony at various DC events over the years, usually a handful of conservatives trying to laugh rather than cry. Tony was good at that. And that is what I’ll remember.