Monday, August 10, 2009

A sad goodbye.

My Uncle Bob passed away recently. He was my Dad's  brother and he was my Godfather.
I didn't see him much growing up as he lived in Alaska  and then back in Seattle when we moved to NJ.
He never married or had children. He lived with my Grandmother for many years until her death.
His lifestyle definitely contributed to his death. No exercise, lots of alcohol and all the wrong foods.

I have a few good memories of him. I remember him always making me laugh when I was very little. I remember him giving me a very "mod" yellow vest for  the Christmas of 1969. I think I wore it every day of 4th grade. I also remember him giving a very eloquent eulogy for my grandfather's funeral.

Unfortunately, I also remember how much he worried my Dad and his sisters. I remember how difficult he became as he got older. That he was very demanding and critical of those around him.

What I think I will try to remember is that he was once the cute little blond boy in this picture. That he was a beloved son and little brother. He had pets who loved him and friends too.
I pray that he is back to that person and  back with his parents who knew him as that cute little boy.

9 comments:

Preppy Pink Crocodile said...

I'm so sorry for your loss! I think relationships like this are always a challenge to figure out. But remembering the good time can only make you feel more at peace. My prayers are with your family!

Torch Lake Prep said...

Sorry for you loss...It's always helpful to me to remember we are all children of God and each is loved no matter our choices.

OHN said...

Families can be very complicated. As I look back, I wonder what made my aunts and uncles the way they were. I think they were a product of their generation.

I also like to think that my relatives that are gone, are at peace with whatever was causing their obvious anger/anguish.

I am sorry for your loss.

The Preppy Princess said...

I'm sorry for your loss, and also understand the desire to remember someone in a certain way, at a certain time or in a certain setting. As OHN puts it so eloquently, "families can be complicated," and the older we become the truer this can be. And sometimes the 'complications' can really make the grieving and goodbye process even more difficult, at least in some of our experiences.

Sending you a hug, keeping you in my prayers,
tp

Susan said...

I remember you recently talking about him...it's still sad to loose a family member, especially if troubled.
Ironic, I just did a blog on someone we both know in town who's recent death has stayed with me...

Ina in Alaska said...

So sorry Patty for your family's loss .... I wish peace for his soul xoxo

Formerly known as Frau said...

Really nice tribute to Uncle Bob Patty. It's always sad to out live your younger siblings. At least he is free of the pain and not alone anymore.

Joyce said...

I'm deeply sorry for this difficult time you and your family are going through. I love the photo you posted of your Uncle and the fond memories growing up. Many hugs coming your way my friend. xoxo

preppyplayer said...

Thanks so much for your kind words, all true.
I know Uncle Bob loved me and I loved him.
I hope and pray he is at peace and with all his loved ones that have passed on. I am certain that our compassionate and loving God made sure that this happened for him.