Loss

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Sunday morning I received a phone call from Texas telling me that my only sibling,  my dear sweet brother had passed away. I can't say I was shocked, because he wasn't well, but still it was. Steve, at the age of 75 had several cardiac related problems. He had had a valve replacement many years ago, but as he aged, he developed other cardiac problems causing some attacks, or episodes as his heart specialist called them. In the past few years, he had also developed Parkinson's Disease. All of this coupled with the fact that he has been a brittle type one diabetic since he was 19 yrs old, did not bode well for his health.

That was why I wasn't shocked. But, that doesn't make the loss of my only sibling any easier. We were close. As kids we argued and were as different as night and day. He was an athlete, played baseball and basketball and ran track in high school. He continued to play baseball and golf and was a great bowler, too. I am not. I am the arty and musician. Of course, Steve was also a drummer and had a passable baritone voice, so we were sorta alike in that love of music.

Growing up I remember him being sort of a bully, yet if anyone said anything about me that he didn't like he was there to defend me. When we finally "grew up" and realized that punching each other not only hurt, but was a waste of time and energy, we became really close friends. Our families blended, our wives got along and our adult life was wonderful, full of fun and laughter whenever we got together.

Fortunately, God took Steve gently, and he never had to suffer the nursing home routine, or the dependency on other people. My sister-in-law and he were a team, recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, even went on an European river cruise as a gift to each other.

So, though I will miss him, I am so glad I had 73+ years to spend with him. He will always hold a special place in my heart. Rest in peace, my bro.

I love you...always,
JF

Comments

  1. CurleyFebruary 15, 2019 at 6:17 AM

    Always remember the good times. I'm always here when you need to talk.

    ReplyDelete

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