We wish Fort LeBoeuf football great Walley Mahle well in his ongoing battle against throat cancer. Mahle is a class act who treats everyone he encounters with the utmost respect.

In a Times-News story Thursday, reporter Ron Leonardi wrote about Mahle and the support he’s getting from the community.

Mahle’s athletic exploits at LeBoeuf and Syracuse were impressive, but it’s clear he’s an even better person than an athlete. His loyalty to his friends and Waterford is only matched by their devotion to him.

Long before Mahle became ill, it was obvious how close the old football crew from Fort LeBoeuf really is. People like Mahle, Joe Shesman, Ed Orris and Bob Sensor have been lifelong friends and would do anything for each other. One example: When Joe Shesman retired as Fort LeBoeuf’s coach, the four of them all moved to North East’s sideline to help Shesman’s son, Matt.

We should all be so fortunate to have the kind of bonds that Mahle has forged with his friends and the entire Fort LeBoeuf family.