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Huntington Beach, California 2012. Hello
there,
As I believe I had mentioned before that Bob had been slowly
failing, these past 6-12 months have been extremely difficult for him -
resulting in his death on Thursday 23rd February, just 16 days short of
his 90th birthday. He
was in such pain for too long.
Our 3rd son Bruce with wife Jackie and grandchild Anna
flew down from Washington State, the eldest, Robert had trouble getting
out of Patagonia, but finally made it two days before the funeral.
Our second son, Richard and wife Tinie and 16 year old Sean from
Riverside, California and the youngest and the one living nearest to us,
John, all gathered around. Wonder
of wonders my niece arrived from Auckland (NZ) - the day before the
funeral. Believe me the
“gathering of the clan” was very special, and oh, so helpful for me.
I am not sure if Bob knew the family had gathered around but I do
know there were times when I was visiting him and holding his hand that
he returned the squeeze of my hand.
The week before his passing the sons were instrumental in finding
the best Hospice House for their Dad, and it had to be close, so that I
did not have so far too drive. I
certainly appreciated their thoughtfulness.
They were all so helpful.
I thought you might like to see the brochure all sons designed (a
friend did a super job of printing it) which was given out at the Chapel
Service on 5th March, 2012.
After the Service the folded U.S. flag was presented to me by the
uniformed servicemen after Taps.
Our three older boys stood at attention during that ceremony,
remembering their days in the Service,
in full dress uniform, all listening to that bugle call.
A very moving moment.
After that ceremony we returned to find the reception room ready
with its refreshments. There
was plenty of time to visit and all the sons had worked hard to have a
presentation of their father’s life on all 5 video screens around the
room. Very effective and
very well done. The
room was quite crowded and it was very pleasant to be able to meet and
talk to many of those present. I
think we were all a bit exhausted at the end of the afternoon.
I apologize I have not had the time (or the strength) to write to
you before now. I hope
to regain some of my energy - well - at least the doctor tells me I will
- and I certainly hope so.
Many thanks to all for the beautiful cards and flowers which have
arrived - they are all so
beautiful - I will treasure those memories.
Now, as we all know, life will go on, but I did want to let you
know I appreciate the way so many helped me cope through these recent
weeks. Thanks
again, Gwen
Photos by Mom's Granddaughter, Anna |
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