Until We Meet Again... Wednesday, November 10

Today my cousin Randy called me. I instantly knew something was wrong.

It's not too often I get a phone call from Canada but when I do I know it's because something big has happened or is about to happen. Today it was news of my Uncle Andy's death. This past summer I had visited him in the hospital and he was his usual jolly self, cracking jokes and making sure everyone was having a good time. I am thankful that Snickers got to meet him but I was sad to note back then that I knew that it would be the last time we'd meet together.

I didn't know what to write about his death so I decided to add the obituary written on a website page dedicated to him.

It is with great sadness we announce the peaceful passing of Andy, in his 79th year, on Tuesday, November 9, 2010 at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, surrounded by his loving family, following a courageous battle with cancer. Cherished and devoted husband of 56 years to Jean, loving father to the late Dan, and daughter-in-law Nadine, and proud grandfather of Ashley and Jayson. Beloved son of the late Ruth and Julius, and loving brother of the late Ted Szastkiw, Joan Hunter (of Calgary), and Bernice Warbeck. Adored by his many brothers/sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews. Andy, a retired and honoured Fire Fighter of 36 years will be lovingly remembered as a hero in service and as a compassionate and selfless patriarch of our family. His memorable wit and exceptional sense of humour will forever fill our hearts with laughter.

Andy, you will forever be imprinted in the fabric of our lives. Sadly missed by your family, your ‘brothers’ from the hall (Fire Fighter brethren) and the community you so bravely served.

It is my big regret that I am not be able to physically be there to support my family as they go through this grief. I know they all understand why I can't be but it doesn't make it easier. My Uncle Andy had been battling cancer for quite some time and though he was the Italian man in our family, he clearly had adapted to our Polish ways and showed some true Polish stubbornness by pushing through and hanging on for as long as he did. I know he's in a better place and is no longer suffering but it's never easy to say goodbye. I hate goodbyes so I refuse to say goodbye. Instead, I'll end this entry by saying "See you later Uncle Andy."

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
Why does it take a minute to say hello and forever to say goodbye?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Some stay for a while, leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never, ever the same.
-- Flavia Weedn