I had a wonderful childhood full of aunts and uncles and cousins. There were annual picnics and celebrations, game playing, silliness and singing around the piano. My mother's side of the family was in the Pittsburgh area and the trek there was always highly anticpated due to the fun awaiting us. You can read a poem about those experiences HERE. We spent many a New Year's Eve at the home of my Aunt Pat and Uncle Dick and my six cousins. The big highlight of the evening was when Uncle Dick would step out onto the front porch at midnight and play Auld Lang Syne on his trumpet. The neighbors would all come out and clap.
I never saw my uncle in a bad mood. He loved life and loved the Lord. He was a robust man and hugging him was always like hugging a barrel. He was jovial, fun, and found great joy in music. He has been suffering from Alzheimer's for the past few years, but that is the uncle I will always remember. He was the last of my five uncles . He passed away this morning at the age of 91. I know he is up there playing his trumpet for the Lord.
6 comments:
Very sad to learn this, Diane. On the other hand, you've managed to make him come alive again (for me, at least, but I'm sure for other readers as well), which is no small feat. And all his kindness and good nature lives on in you, and you no doubt are passing it along to others. Little solace, I know, but not unimportant, either.
So sad for your loss, but how blessed you are to have had this joyful man in your life
I'm sorry you lost a favorite uncle, Diane. It's always hard to lose someone--no matter how old or how well you've tried to prepare yourself for their passing. I'll keep you and your family in my prayers.
What a delightful tribute to a man you loved. There's nothing like aunts and uncles and cousins, and to have had one like him and to have him for so long...a blessing. He'll still be with you, always.
I'm sorry for your loss, Diane, but I'm grateful you have happy memories.
We indeed have been blessed to have such a wonderful extended family! Another wonderful memory of our New Years Eve's was when your mom sat down at the piano and dad pulled out his trumpet and mom and the rest of us joined in all the singing! It surely can be said that Dad was loved by us all. Thank you for the lovely tribute on your blog. Love ya cuz'!
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