1921-2010

Jane here. I have been debating how to write this post in the back of my mind over the last few days. Although those close to us already know, Grandad (my Dad's father) passed away a week ago today. This week has seen such a wide range of emotions. Talking to toddlers about the death of a loved one definitely causes you to experience an additional element. I was truly moved and enlightened to watch Isaac (and his cousins) begin to understand the concepts of death and the afterlife. From simple questions to innocent observations and actions, all the children totally enriched the experience.

I always knew that Grandad was a faith-filled man who really cared about our community and those in it, but it was so great to hear other people tell stories about him over the last few days. It's easy to forget that grandparents had a 'real life', and it was so nice to hear what others had to say about him.

It was also fun to recollect memories with our family. Among my favourites: He could always find the treats that Nana hid from him, but would share them with you if you caught him in the act. He built us gingerbread houses and set up Christmas villages, and Santa always left a toy for Grandad that we could enjoy. He would count how many jumps we made on the pogo-stick before falling off (I think Daniel is the record-holder). He could take a nap in a room full of people, and wake up pretending that he was in on the conversation. He taught us how to burn leaves with a magnifying glass, and loved to explain to us how things worked. He wore his watch over his sleeve and his tie outside his sweater vest. Later in life, he walked with a shillelagh because he refused to use a cane as recommended. He was extremely proud of any of the grandchildren's accomplishments or creations - a collage of leaves that I made in kindergarten still hangs on the wall in his den. He had a standard greeting with us that always elicited a smile: "Comment ca va you?" I am so grateful for the memories I have of Grandad. Above all, I am grateful for the family he has given me. Nana and Grandad have 38 descendants and counting, including some of my dearest friends.

Part of my grief is that Isaac and Simon won't have these experiences with him, and that any other children we may be blessed with will not even have the chance to meet him. Josh was quick to remind me that our children are very fortunate to have their Grampie and Pop who love them so much and will surely have the same strong impression on them that Grandad did on me.

"...And until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of his hand."


There are quite a few missing (or not yet born!), but this is the closest thing we have to a full family picture - taken October 2006 while celebrating Nana and Grandad's 63rd wedding anniversary.