Posted by partlycloudy on January 30, 2005, at 13:23:10
I was able to visit with him last September, when we traveled to Britain on holiday. While I Iived in England between 1990 and 1996, I saw him and his wife several times. Always feared the visit beforehand (what to say? what to do together?) and yet when we met, there was always a very strong and comfortable closeness between us. It was such a comfort to me, living so far from home, yet having someone from our family, within visitng distance.
He was a gentle man. Worked as a forestry manager, replanted areas in Wales that had been devastated by the coal mining industry. He had been honoured with an MBE before I left Britain. It's my everlasting thanks that I was able to celebrate this with him and his family.
My mum, his little sister, is planning to visit me this week. Could be that she ends up going to Wales instead. Whatever happens, my memories of my uncle are cherished and welcome.
I wish I could cry - I guess I'm not yet ready.
poster:partlycloudy
thread:450159
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/grief/20041230/msgs/450159.html