Nana and Jennifer at Flagler College

Nana and Jennifer at Flagler College

Nana in New Smyrna Beach

Nana in New Smyrna Beach

Love and miss you dearly!

Love and miss you dearly!

Love and miss you dearly!

sorry to hear about your dad

Allison's graduation

Regina's brother Joe

Jennifer & Nana

Hello again, I have been avoiding thinking about you because every time that I do, I feel as if a fraction of my life begins to crumble again. Of course I know that this is selfish, and of course I think of you daily. Every day something happens that I wish I could tell you, and it is hard to accept that I will not be able to call you and fill you in anymore. This, of course, does not mean that I don’t know that you are with me every step of the way on the journey that life takes me on, it just seems unfair to not be able to hear your voice and your opinions on the matter. I dreamed as if we would have forever, and constantly let it slip my mind that we did not. We built lives involving one another, and it seemed impossible that one day I would have to let that go. You lived much of a life without me in it, but for the first time, I have to live mine without you. It will definitely be an adjustment, one I obviously do not want to make, but one that I know I have to. You were such an amazing person, and I know that every day you woke up with a smile on your face and made sure that you would live that day to the fullest that you could. You worked hard to make others happy, but never lost sight of what made you happy -- which mostly went hand in hand with making others happy. I see a lot of you in myself, and strive to live every day as you would, and in your honor. I always have, and always will strive to be at least half of the person that you were, because I know that by doing that I will make a difference in the world. I wonder what it is like up there, and although I miss you more and more each day I know that this was better for you in the end. I know that you are at peace and that you are no longer suffering. I hope that each day now is spent doing everything you have always loved, and looking down on all of us smiling. But none of this will ever mean that I do not miss you, because I do, and I will, every day for the rest of my life. You were more than loved, you were cherished, and I am grateful to have even been able to spend this time with you. The world seems a little bit darker now, but I know that as the light returns you will remain in our hearts and will continue to be a part of our lives. You were loved by so so many people, and it was a dreadful day for everyone to see you go. Thank you for being so much to me, and for being a part of my life. I appreciate every little thing you have ever done, because it was all done with love. Thank you for living your life as you did because without you I would have lost a part of my inspiration, and so would many others. Thank you for inspiring, and thank you for dreaming. You will always be loved, and live in infamy in our hearts. This is never goodbye, but always see you later. Love Always, Your loved one (I give credit to Katherine Granke, who wrote this)

Linda was a really special person. One of her greatest gifts was her ability to connect with others in a way that made them feel special and loved. She seemed to do this effortlessly, and it was clear that the people she loved were a constant in her mind. One of her primary love languages was gifts, and she had this amazing knack for picking out exactly what you needed or wanted, even if you were not aware you were lacking it! I loved that she would do this throughout the year and often unattached to any birthday or holiday, because it really showed how much she was thinking about the people in her life every day. I think most who knew Linda learned about how to connect and show love, and I am grateful to have known her.

Linda and I had a special best friend friendship through the years. How lucky we were to meet as little girls and pick back up later in life as if there wasn't a pause at all. Growing up we were there for each other through so many different times in our lives. I admired her for the love of life she had and how strong and positive she made each step of this hard journey she was living. Linda never stopped caring and being there for me through her sick days while I was faced with the hardest times in my life.
I know I will see you one day and until then I will look for you around me.
I'm so lucky to have had Linda as my best friend! Love Debbie K.

Linda is my “mother-in-law”. But our relationship transcended anything you could possibly put into words. The world is a much dimmer place without Linda’s light in it.

Mercy me

Mercy me

1965, Emmanuel Owaka

As we gather this December to remind us that Christmas is a family occasion mother father and all the children playing with their new toys or playing with each other as lunch is being prepared by father and mother having a sneaky double vodka or taking a sip of the red wine before her meal. not a year goes by
when I don't think of our mother and father dead, they are still here with us all every single day
for the rest of our lives, FLY High Mom & Dad until we meet again

Rest In Peace in God's loving arms. Blessed be. Love always, Jenette

Mom,

I love and miss you. There is so much to tell you. I left Clayton. At one point in time I was seeing 4 men. Now I am focused on one very sweet man. My job isn't treating me well. I hope I can find another one. I got a job as a wedding assistant. I am on break from that job for now. I broke my foot. There is just a lot. I love you mom. Help me on your end guide me to where I should go! Love you lots!

I am sharing a small video on a trail in New Zealand where we went for her 80th Birthday - https://youtu.be/LbQiSCjMZgM

I will treasure the wonderful memories of the many fun filled trips Mary & I have shared together. She was the best travelling companion ever!I am sharing a small video on a trail in New Zealand where we went for her 80th Birthday and a photo in Quebec whale watching. So many trips to mention from cycling in Scotland & Ontario, skiing in Quebec, camping on the East Coast to mention a few. Mary was my mentor when I was in nursing training and we have remained friends since 1967. A loving and caring mother to Graeme and a wonderful wife to her late husband Allan. I shall miss her so much.Travel well my special friend on your last journey. May you Rest In Peace. Much love, always.

Graeme I am so sorry to hear this news, I have fond memories of you all, she will be sadly missed and my thoughts are with you at this difficult time

Bucket list concert... never to be. Say hi to John and George, eh?

So many times.....this or Lenny K? We loved both,

This....how many times?

From me to you little brother...Always B

Ramones.....what more can I say... I think Joey was his favorite

Simply put, Kathy was my friend. I love remembering her laughter, calling everyone “dar’lin”, and enjoying her sunny disposition towards life though life wasn’t always sunny. She was a light to all who knew her and her love drew people to the love of Jesus.
You are missed dear friend here on earth but now you’re rejoicing in the heavenly worship of your Savior with beloved family and friends. And that makes my heart glad! Maug

Iris Hall Memorial Slideshow

Clay! Clay! Where do I start, we're so heartbroken!

This seems so surreal! Only God can heal us.

I got to know Clay through my husband, Peter Mbugua, his cousin, with whom they grew together like brothers. This is one brotherhood I can attest to - the love, the outpouring of hearts to each other, the commitment to seeing each other win and scale greater heights.

I remember when we were planning our wedding, Clay was all in, that was when I first encountered his great heart- going all out to see to it that everything would work out smoothly. In one instance he joined me in going to the would-be wedding venue for a service so as to get a glimpse of how the sound would be. His simple but sacrificial action made me see a dimension in him that is so amazing. A person who can go great miles for you, sacrifice to see you achieve your goals is indeed unforgetable! Clay was one such person. This is one quality that made many entrust him.

He carried people's loads like his own. He loved one and all with a passion. When my husband needed to do a project, he would discuss with him knowing with Clay on board you can bet the project and plans would succeed and with the excellence deserved. He shuned mediocrity, laxity and indecisiveness everywhere to push for the best of everything. I got to know Maxeen, Clay's amazing wife, through him and you could see the love and joy they share, the great emulatable example they gave, even in their marriage.

Clay gave his best, he lived a full life, pouring himself into relationships, both family and friends, projects and anything that fell into his hands. We can attest to that. We enjoyed our family moments, sharing in the joy, laughter and humour- his great humour is something my brother Dennis fondly remembers of Clay, right from our ruracio.

Clay loved and served God with his all. He has indeed left an indelible mark. The loss is unfathomable. May the Lord grant us the strength, comfort and divine healing only He can offer. God remains our anchor, we trust Him in everything, we are grateful for the time on earth He accorded us with Clay. Blessed be His holy name. Amen.

Rest well bro

I got to be a part of a very amazing non charity called the Open Palm foundation, spearheaded at the time by Mbugua and his amazing wife Maxeen. I got to interact with him countless times during the trips to various children's homes and I must say he was a guy who I knew for sure I could trust. Your love for your family still inspires me and your industrious nature forced me to work harder without you telling me to do so in the first place. Your actions spoke loudly in a way that impacted everyone you've met in a very big way . I wish I gave you your flowers when you were still here. Rest in power brother. Till we meet again

May he rest in peace till we meet again

I can't recall The exact point in time when I knew you. But our mothers have been friends for decades.

However, I recall the first days, must've been in the Band. I used to do the PowerPoint Presentations for service. You used to play.
Then you needed help with your laptop.
That's when you started calling me MD.
Initially it was uncomfortable because it was the weirdest shortening of my name to that point. But it was only you who used it. And I grew into it.
Always with the enthusiastic greetings when we met.
Comparing notes on a couple of things.

Then you called me aside one day to tell me you'd be getting married soon.
And that you'd have liked for me to be the photographer, together with my team.
And your straightforwardness came out. We'll do X Y Z in the order ABC. Tell me what you need.
And that solidified our friendship. We were on the same page.

And you looked out for me in more ways than one from then on.

Then you called me to tell me you're getting into Photography. And my heart lit up.

Life did that thing that it does, where it shows you dust and months go by and you realise you haven't talked to someone in a bit.
And your conversations are reduced to"we should meet. I'll come to the office. "
And that was our last conversation when I bumped into you. We were both distracted but that was the main topic. We should meet.

I've been having your voice in my head Calling my name. "MD" and seeing pictures of you everywhere with your smile.
And I've been very confused.
It took me a lot to write this. Because I also don't know how this will reach you. If ever.
But I'm really sad. This isn't how I expected things to go.

You were a good friend. And I'm glad that our paths crossed.

Rest, Carlclay Margnyams. Rest.

We hope for God's grace and warmth as we come to terms with your sudden demise.

https://youtu.be/l-7gJjsQ_qE

In my heart.

Salud, Mbugua

Salud, Mbugua

Gone too soon they say, this has never been so alive to me than right now. Your death has broken me, why God allowed this to happen will baffle me for some time. Clay was a childhood friend that with time became a brother to me. He was always there to provide a shoulder to cry on, sound wisdom when needed, and rebuked me when he felt I did wrong. He was one of the most genuine friends I will have. One of the fondest memory I will cherish forever in my heart is when Clay made time to help my husband and me with the discharge process when we had our baby in December 2020. He was there to queue with me and ensured I was given priority. He portrayed true servanthood. In moments of sadness, I am reminded of how you emulated Christ. Indeed you REVEALED CHRIST AND GLORIFIED GOD! I am comforted that I know for sure you are in the arms of our Heavenly Father. My work, therefore, is to work out my salvation with fear and trembling that I may see you again on that glorious day. So long my brother. Safiri Salama...tutaonana baadaye!!

Oh Mbugua, you were a great friend. You called me "Witi". Up to date I don't know where that nickname came from but I grew to like it. Our work (photography) meetings at Java enjoying samosas and you taking your "Dawa" slowly grew into moments of catching up and encouraging each other. I learnt alot from you. You challenged me to be better, serve with gladness and pursue my dreams. I will miss your presence in the band. I will miss you dearly. Farewell my friend. -Alice Awinda

Memories ablaze, heaven has gained.

Mark with dogs near Paonia, CO

I love and loved you dearly. Your memory will forever burn bright in our hearts

Goodnight, Dad. Sleep tight. Petey jnr.

Momma,

There is so much that has happened. I left Clayton. I finally stood up for myself and left. I am doing okay. I have a job, a place to live, and an internship on the horizon. I am going to take a break from men though. It's just too much blah. I want a man that can take care of himself.
Love you mom.

I will always remember her beautiful smile, her love to laugh, and her amazing soul. Bob, Mary, Anne, Susie, and family, I am so terribly sorry for this devastating loss. Katie, rest in peace. You will forever be loved and missed.

Mom I love you be my guiding light. I have stumble in areas but also succeed. Wrap me in your arms and make me feel at home.

Years have passed but the mark my mummy left on this world will never fade. Today we mark the anniversary of her passing—and we celebrate the love and memories she gave us.

Tatum, I hope you know how effortlessly funny you were, how bravely honest you were, how beautifully you cared for your little brother. I hope you know you were sharply intelligent and more passionate than most. I remember meeting you at math & sciences camp in Ann Arbor and instantly connecting, laughing every day in Chemistry class and lunch until my stomach hurt. I remember you looking stunning at all 8 homecomings, bare-faced and beautiful. With a hunger to better the world and advocate for others' wellbeing and rights, you made so many lives better before you left - an ambition many of us speak of accomplishing decades down the road; an ambition you did not wait to achieve. And you did. I selfishly wish we had more time with you. Love you, Tatum.

Rest in power, Tatum

Deepest condolences from the Doyne Botterman family. One of my favorite family vacations was the one where we visited the Ellison family in Idaho. Mr. Ellison took us rafting on a nearby river and taught us about how to know the age of a tree by counting the rings. I also remember a tire swing out in the woods- great fun. He will be deeply missed by all. Sending hugs and prayers.
Debbie Botterman Brighter ( Doyne's daughter)

I knew Ike for 35 years as his son in law. He was a kind soul and great story teller. If he asked you a question he wanted to know the answer, and he was full of great questions. His laugh was contagious and his smile genuine. He was an avid reader and learner who loved to teach others. Walk gently through the heavenly forrest Ike. You will be missed.

Dear friends and family,
My sincerest apologies. We just learned that you have to register on this site before posting. We are told you will not receive junk email but you do need to add your email address to eliminate scammers.

If you write a post and then attempt to register your message will not be saved. It is advised that you register BEFORE typing a message.

If you are still having difficulty posting please contact me at camper9885@msn.com or call 320-248-0552. Try lighting the candle before posting. Thank you. Janet Ellison Steinkamp

Please know we are praying for your family. Peace and comfort to you all.

Goodnight, dad. Thanks for everything. "Pedro"

Because we can't gather to share our stories, we encourage you to add your favorite story about your time with Ike. Add a picture or several to share! Thank you.

Mr. Maunder was one of my high school teachers at L'amoreaux. He left a great and memorable impression on me. I hope every student can have such a teacher in their life. I regret that I didn't look him up sooner to catch up with him before he passed.

Tatum you were the best sister I could’ve asked for. I will always love and miss you.

Happy Birthday in Heaven! I miss you!

I met Pamela on our first day at school but we lost touch when I moved away to train as a teacher of science and chemistry, then to Calgary Canada to work at Queen Elizabeth High School or QEHS as it is known. We made contact through the power of email and were starting up our friendship once more. She was such a kind and loving woman and although I did not really know her well, I will miss her and I offer my deep condolences to her family
Peter Drake
Hexham Victoria, Australia

I'm so sorry - I only just heard of John's death. I met John on our first day at high school. We were pals right from the start. When I moved away to train as a chemistry & science teacher - and thereafter serving for 35 years at "Queen Elizabeth High School" (QEHS), Edmonton - we lost touch, but reconnected years later, thanks to the magic of email, and swapped many a remembrance of our glory days. What a good man he was. God bless. Pete (Peter Drake), Hexham, Victoria, Australia.

I had the pleasure of being a neighbor and friend of Royce Hamende Jr, father to my best friend Royce Hamende III, from age 9 until I moved out of state due to work in my late 20's. Every time I think of "Uncle Royce" I smile as I think of what a wonderful mentor he was for all of us young people who loved hanging out at their house, or in the drive, as he and Royce worked on their cars, motorcycles or other projects together. It was great to see that love between father and son - and their willingness to let us friends of the family join in while we visited. He was a great Dad - Royce's and Sue’s Dad - that I admired and often wished were my own Dad. He was very successful and accomplished in business, while also being an officer in the US Coast Guard, which we saw him continue to report to for his ongoing service throughout the years. He also was beloved by all of us (our group of friends and family) for his great big smiles upon seeing anyone. He could light up a gathering with his fun and laughter, and his generous welcoming of all. I would like to say I enjoyed going up to the cabin in Michigan to lend a hand on projects - but in truth, I don't remember doing much work on the cabin during my trips there. I just remember all the fun among everyone there - and Uncle Royce always being so quick to ask us if we were ready to "do some (water) skiing?" He taught every one of us how to water ski - but also had us on the water for sailing, fishing and swimming. These memories will always be with me and I will always remember him as one heck of a great guy and good-hearted person. While I am sad to learn of his passing, I will always be glad that I met this very special man. Our thoughts are with your family during this time of loss.
Dave & Laura Kuntarich and family
Apex, North Carolina

I'm very sorry to be so late posting - I only recently heard the news of my old friend's death. I met John on our first day at high school. We were great pals from the start, but after I moved away to train as a chemistry and science teacher - and then 30 years at "Queen Elizabeth High School" (QEHS) Calgary - we lost touch. About 10 years ago we reconnected via the magic of email, and swapped many a yarn about the good old days. Rest in peace. Pete (Peter Drake), Hexham, Victoria, Australia

Sally, I miss you so much. You did not deserve this but I'm glad you're no longer suffering.
I hope you will send me a sign when you're strong enough to let me know you're ok.
I love you always and forever beautiful ❤️ ❤️

Sally, I miss you so much. You did not deserve this but I'm glad you're no longer suffering.
I hope you will send me a sign when you're strong enough to let me know you're ok.
I love you always and forever beautiful ❤️ ❤️

you were taken from me to soon sweetheart.... at last you are no longer suffering and are no longer in any pain, until we meet again i will always love you never forget

Goodnight, boss. Thanks for everything.

Dear Anne, Marilyn, Philippe, Maurice, Jung, Samuel, Sheldon, Sophie, Leah and Alyssa:

I do hope that all of you are keeping well and staying strong.
I am going to tell you a little bit of how long I have known Andy.
Many of you probably know a lot already.

His mother, Piang Pak Meh was a very close friend of my mother. I knew Andy when I was about 7 years old. He used to go with uncle Laval and later with my brother for bodybuilding at Blue and White body building club. Being the eldest child in his family, he worked extremely hard in his teenage years and beyond. He did a lot of sacrifice for his family.

The first time I met Andy in British Columbia was in the summer of 1969. I was on my fourth year in medicine and I got an externship job at Riverview Psychiatric Hospital at Essondale, Coquitlam, in BC. I was able to stay at Andy‘s house in Burnaby for several days during that summer. I felt so much at home in his house then. He was the pioneer of the Chinese Mauritians in British Columbia.

When I and aunt Ah-Yen finally immigrated to Canada in 1973, there were still very few Chinese Mauritians in the greater Vancouver area. Every year for Christmas, Andy would be inviting all the Chinese Mauritians around to have a Christmas party at his house. We had lots of food, fun, wine and dancing. At that time Andy loved dancing; he loved sweet red wine and sherry.

We all had a great time and got to know each other. He made a list of the Chinese Mauritians coming to the Vancouver area and he would tell us which number we were from his list! He was always there to help out newcomers and gave them good tips and advice about the Canadian life, what make of car to buy, where to rent an apartment. His house would also be where newcomers from Mauritius would stay for a week or two until an accommodation was found! That was how generous and helpful he was.

Let me talk about one memorable personal encounter years ago when we visited him in his custom built Burnaby house. Andy gave us some boiled quail eggs. He also showed us his live quails that he reared in his backyard. The boiled mouthful little eggs tasted so nice and that was the first time we ate quail eggs. I was fascinated with the live quails. Having sensed my excitement about those quails, Andy gave us a few live quails on our way home and taught us how to raise them. We did and we were so proud to collect quail eggs and enjoy them for a few years!

He was kind, selfless, humble, generous, honest, always there for a helping hand well-liked by everybody. We are so lucky to have been a part of his life. We miss him a lot.

God bless him and God bless all of you.

Ah-Kee Leong Sit

Anne, Marilyn & Philippe, Maurice & Jung: What a fitting tribute for Andy. We’ll always remember him as a trailblazer and perfect role model who impacted our lives in a positive way.

Sincere condolences to you all. May the outpouring of love and support from
your family and friends give you the strength and courage to cope with your loss.

God Bless.

Philip, Marie-Claude and Christopher Lan

We are all very sad to learn about the passing of Andy (RIP).

He was such a nice person, easy to talk to, and we do admire him of being a great husband to Anne,
a super dad to Marilyn & Philippe, Maurice & Jung, and a wonderful koung koung to the grandchildren.
Now he is watching over all of us from above.

Andy was a mentor and a great friend to me. Everytime we met, he would give me advice, encourage
me, and he spoke about his experience of life in general. He has been influenced by his late mom whom l have a deep respect for. She also used to provide useful advice to me.

Andy used to speak about his humble background in Mauritius, and about how he went to study in England and came to settle in Vancouver. He always worked hard to provide for the family.

Andy was a learned man, fully embracing the philosophy of chinese culture, inspired by Confucius and Lao Tzu on the chinese way of life. We will miss him a lot, will treasure his friendship, advice, and not the least his writings which he gave us on our last get together at Maurice's place last year on advice, thoughts and life.

We will all keep the good memories of quality time spent with Andy, alive.
He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.

Much love,
Antoine, Patricia, and family

R.I.P. aunt babber. I can't believe you passed while dad and I were there burying granny. Miss you so bad. You always got me better than anybody and now I've nobody in the world because of mom, Tammy, and zeke and they keep turning people against me, convince others they're trying to help or care, and they've helped Krystal sabotage me and violate the divorce agreement every step of her way. My attorney even said to block them on everything and not even associate with anyone who even remotely associates with them anymore and I am completely alone. I wish I could talk to you so bad. Love ya and miss ya always. Matt
Thanks for doing this for her Paris. Tell Damon and Christian I said wassup. Love yall.

I first met Peter Drake at QEHS (Queen Elizabeth High School) way back and what a lifetime of friendship it turned out to be. His love of chemistry and science as both learner and teacher was second to none. He was a handy saxophone player too. Love to Mary and Peter junior in their home of Hexham New South Wales

Dear Peter Drake has left us. I feel sorrow for this, but pride in knowing this man. His life as a teacher was well spent, starting as it did in Queen Elizabeth High School ("QEHS") and onto various academic institutions around the world. Science in general and Chemistry in particular were his thing and he will be missed wherever he practiced his art as a teacher. Hexham has lost a true son
All love to Linda, Kieran and Rob

Thank you for everything, Mati. I love you.

Oh I'm in pieces, it's tearing me up, but I know
A heart that's broke is a heart that's been loved

So I'll sing Hallelujah
You were an angel in the shape of my mum
When I fell down you'd be there holding me up
Spread your wings as you go
And when God takes you back we'll say Hallelujah
You're home

Mame Pame - the strongest and wisest lady

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I will miss your loving, carefree, and selfless self. You were always thoughtful of others, putting everyone else above you even when it came to the smallest of things.
I love you so much Grandma and rest in peace!!
- Aldrich

I missed you so much and I love you always Grandma! Love, Aellah

I missed you so much and I love you always Grandma! Love, Aellah

2019 - Birthday celebration @ Sacramento

2013 Pico De Loro - Batangas

God bless, across the miles and years.

Giuseppe Torcasio

God bless, my dear brother. I will see you again before long. Jim

I vividly remember the time when Sam’s bicycle helmet had a GPS antenna permanently mounted on top. I repurposed an old controller wired to his helmet to record positions while Sam biked the trails of Cape Cod. Back then GPS had “selective availability” meaning the accuracy was randomly varied. As Sam always said, keep trying, and we did to improve the accuracy of his trail maps to overcome those early problems. But the best part of the story was Sam’s invitation to his home for a night of lobster and disco music complete with a mirror ball as a thank you for all our work. As I always say, my years working at TapTone in the ‘90s has always been my favorite time as an engineer. We will miss you Sam.

Here is a picture of dad (Paul VanderHorst) with Uncle Steve in Missoula in 1981

Ralph,
We will miss you at Rebecca's family dinners and other special gatherings. We will especially miss seeing you walking in with your smiley face and greeting each of us with a big, hearty hug. We’ll miss hearing about your excursions, future adventures and some mishaps.
We’ve enjoyed your comments on the group family texts for dinner updates where you are often badgering one of us. Once, when I posted I couldn’t make it to dinner due to a conflict with a business meeting, you texted “Get your priorities straight”! When I think of that it always gives me a chuckle. You will be dearly missed. Sending prayers and hugs to your family and circle of friends.
Love, Vera and Dave

Rest in peace Uncle Takeu❤️ It's an honor knowing you, you are such a caring beautiful soul, thank you for the many phone calls, cards and loving memories...

“Is it the shoes Money?” No, just awesome Dennis. But who better to wear Christmas Brooks with jingle bells? Serious shoes for serious fun that brought a smile to others. Much love and forever in my heart.

Dear Elaine-chan and Gerry,

Our deepest sympathy to you on the passing of Joe. We were so lucky to have you as part of our JBBP family. Joe was a sweet man, a dedicated dad, and he always had a smile for each of us. He will be missed. We are thinking of you.

With Love,

The JBBP Sensei and Teachers

I have many fond memories of the laughter we shared and fun we had playing tennis with Dennis, Malou and Gerry at Natomas racquet club. I was thrilled when Dennis and Shelley hit it off on their first date and had so much joy in hearing updates from Shelley at work as their relationship grew and developed. Shelley and Dennis are truly amazing people with huge hearts. Dennis, you will be deeply missed. Sending lots of love and hugs to you Shelley.

One of my absolute favorite memories! Dennis meeting Lucy for the first time was one of the sweetest things I’ve ever seen. ❤️ Miss you and love you uncle

Last minute decision to actually attend my graduation for my Masters degree in Nursing. Mostly because Dad was so mad I wasn't celebrating it more since he was so proud of me. Always my cheerleader, sounding board and favorite Dad! Drove 5+ hours to watch my graduation and then drove home the same day just so he could be there on a day he was so excited to celebrate with me!!

Always there for me when I needed him. My move back to Nevada, going through a rough time and without a question Dad drove up for thanksgiving which we couldn't even have at the house because of renovations but loving every minute of it!

Connected always through Caitlyn Hope, Lauryn, Shelley, and of course the infamous Rose family! Rest easy Dennis and fly high with your baby girl! You will be missed greatly. ❤️ Your East coast friend, Kris

Dennis, 2019 Sacramento County Feed the Hungry Run. We will always miss him!

Dennis, 2018 Sacramento County Feed the Hungry Run. You can easily spot Dennis in his yellow costume!

As you’ve said to me so many times, Ill say to you.... I’ll love you forever no matter what! In our 10 years together, through good times, hard times we’ve been friends. See ya on the other side! Love, Janni

09/21/2020 - The last day of summer. Dennis preferred tennis (no double faults in heaven, only aces), but was multitalented. Though he has not played in years, his golf swing showed little rust. A natural athlete. An even better person. We all miss you. Until that day. Rest easy.

Hello my Brother! From the first time we meet in September of 1968, we were inseparable. My first friend after making the move to Salinas from Davis. It was the first day of 8th grade in gym class. You were a skinny nerd and an awesome athlete; the only guy that earned WHITE colored (the highest level!) gym trunks that year. I remember watching you go through the obstacle course like you were born for it. That started a 50+ year friendship.
We journeyed life as best friends; hiking, camping, fishing, biking, education (formal and not), employment, marriage and children. You even named your daughter Dani in honor of our bond. I’m positive that we talked at least once a week throughout our lives. You truly knew how to be a good and faithful friend. I can tell you that I miss you more than I could possibly convey here. I love you Brother and I’m positive that you’re smiling down as you hang your body off the fastest sailboat in the cosmos.
So long for now. I’ll see you on the other side.

My family and I will always love Uncle Ralph and the wonderful memories he has been part of over the years. Our holiday dinners will never be the same without his laughter, mischievous twinkling hazel eyes, and his homemade dinner rolls and cheesecake.

We will miss you buddy! Until we see you again ♥️

To you buddy ♥️

When I think of Joe, I can see his smile....his laughter....his jolly way. He was such a good friend and it was quite shocking to get the news. I told him I was going to visit him at his new home. alas. That is not to be. Thank you for the memories, Joe. To Elaine & Gerry, Joe always had something to share about both of you. That's how much he loved you both. Condolence.

My condolences to family and friends. I will miss our chats we had in Featherstone, we had some laughs over the years. Rest in Peace, Pat - You will be missed a lot xx

Rest in Peace Pat, you'll be missed by many. xx

Dear Gerry and Elaine,
You have been on my mind and in my prayers these past few weeks. I appreciate your thoughts about the lessons that you learned through this difficult situation. My aunt also passed away and my uncle was not allowed to be with her. It's truly heartbreaking. I pray that God will comfort you both as the days go on. I know you have family and friends who love you so. I have always enjoyed celebrating holidays and special times with your sweet family. God bless you. Rest In Peace, dear Joe.
Love,
Jill Moreci & family

My love, My Best friend and Confidant
James, the day that they took you to hospital with the ambulance, not for a moment did I ever think that it would be my last time seeing you . If I had known, I would never have let you go! In every passing moment I miss you, I think about you and I wish that I could have one last hug, one last kiss and one last moment of the unique happiness only you brought me.
Still, words fail to express what you meant to me and how thankful I am for everything you've done for me and how blessed I was having you in my life.  Everything I see reminds me just how much I wish that you were here with me, making each other laugh, talking about all the plans you still had instore for us, comforting me. I love you so much James, and all the precious memories we created with one another over the years will forever be in my heart. You changed my life and life will never be the same without you my love but I know that you loved me, until the day that you went away and will continue to love me until the day we together again ❤️

Your loving, selfless and dependable nature will forever be in the hearts of all those that crossed your path!

"We are born of love; love is our mother."
- Rumi

I have sadly just learned of John's passing. I knew John during my university years and was honoured to count him as a friend and to know his kindness and experience his wacky sense of humour! I have great memories of his various classic cars, about which he waxed poetic, and of driving through snowstorms in pursuit of yet another ski adventure. And many fishy stories involving sushi! I am glad he is in a better place, after years of suffering. Rest in peace, my friend, and I am so glad to have known you!

The message below was written by my husband, Stan Turesky; our shared affection for Arthur extended over 40 years. Gerry Otremba

So sad to lose a colleague, Pat touched so many hearts and lives. My condolences to family and friends, may you Rest in Peace, Pat x

It has been almost 2 weeks since getting the news of Joe's passing and I still can't believe it. Death of a loved one these days seems so surreal. There is no saying goodbye. No ceremony. No closure. Almost seems to be an exercise in protocol and efficiency, void of feeling and emotion. I suppose, for now this "post" will have to suffice as the only place where we can greave and express our loss and our love for someone whom we will never see again. It's not fair, but it is what it is. Writing this, I realize that I miss Joe more than I thought as I find myself with tears dripping onto my glasses. Joe and I spent little time together as we lived far from each other. Mostly our paths crossed at family get togethers and on the occasional family cruise or ski trip. Joe was always "down to earth" and interesting to listen to. Best of all, he was the best person to ever come into my brothers life. He was the "Ying" to Gerry's "Yang so to speak. I am sure Gerry & Elaine will miss him greatly. I can't imagine losing my partner. It would hurt terribly. I with I could do or say something that could make the hurt go away or diminish, but I can't. I give Gerry and Elaine a big virtual Hug now, and a "rain check" for the real thing when it is safe to do so. Love you guys. Joe was one of a kind and I will miss him. We all will.

........ Tom (Gerry's brother)

I am shocked and saddened by your loss, Pat. Only feels like last week that you were walking through the dispensary with a smile and a hello. You are in the bones of this place and it certainly won't be the same without you. Rest in Peace XXX

Sending my deepest condolences to Pat's family & friends at this sad time. I had the pleasure of working with Pat for many years as a CSM. She made a mean cup of coffee and was always full of chat !
May each happy memory be a guiding light to you all - rest in peace Pat x

Pat - from the moment I met you years ago in the Featherstone office, I loved your dry sense of humour and stubborn nature! We really have lost someone special, I will never forget our last conversation in November where you were so humble and selfless. Fly high x

Elaine and Gerry, I'm so sad to hear about Joe's passing and send my deepest condolences. I'll always remember Joe's calm and sweet demeanor in elementary school meetings and at the first aid station at Undokai!

What a beautiful and thoughtful description of the importance of Advance Directives as well. Thank you for that and for caring so much about others in your own time of sorrow. I'm sending you both a big hug.

Love,
Esther

We had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Omega through a mutual friend around 1998/99. We helped where we could for him to try and get some projects up and running and were successful in some ways. We invited him into our home and later on his son. We all blended together in a cohesive bond and learned a lot from each other. Mr. Omega also wrote a booklet about our family and lead him down a path to raise awareness about youth today. Mr. Omega was inspiration and a help to our family. I only found out bout his passing today, so sorry it is a bit late. He definitely will be missed.

For Gerry and I, the proper remembrance is for Florence and Arthur. Their’s was a second union of mind and spirit, of love and prolific and groundbreaking research and advocacy on an institution, community and two-year colleges, that remains underutilized.

Our relationship began shortly after I joined the staff of the National Endowment of the Humanities as its director of planning. I was the first social scientist hired and given the expressed role on helping NEH better document the needs of those disciplines, institutions, and public resources that comprise the humanities.

When I arrived there were clear projects awaiting me: the role of university presses and the rising costs of scholarly publishing; beyond academic employment and what were the rest of humanities’ PhD’s doing professionally? A sole National Council member, Leslie Koltai welcomed me and asked the question, “what was the role for the humanities in two year college education?

Two weeks later, Arthur Cohen knocked on my door offering to help NEH answer that question. We started with a small planning grant and his chaperoning me on a series of site visits to two-year colleges. It led to an analysis of NEH’s programs and the adaptation of fellowship programs and grants on curriculum, and public outreach programs and in the State of Washington’s 16 community colleges a comprehensive assessment of what they were doing and improvements that were needed.

Over that decade, Art and Florence guided and documented the efforts. They engaged the Washington education associations, the Hill, and the grandmother of all educational matters, the Department of Education and their State siblings.

Of course, Art and Flo became our good friends. Gerry and I mourned Flo’s death and its obvious impact on Art. On our last visit with Arthur, so much of the discussion was about our past efforts, but we met the wonderful Kingsbury family next door whose three children kept Art spry and enjoying what only youth can provide.

A belated note to express thanks to Art and Flo for enriching our lives and that of the Nation.

Gerry and Elaine, Joe will be missed by family and friends.Remember the good times. It helps. Love, Mary

My brother Joe, I felt a comfort in having a big brother that will be missed. Our chats always brought such JOY to my heart. You did not have enough time brother. I will cherish the photos which always bring a smile to my face. You will be missed. Love, Mary

Christmas 2019, Joe and I took a little cruise from Long Beach to Catalina and Ensenada. This photo is of us in the ship's lobby for the ugly sweater contest. We were both selected to participate, but joe declined but insisted that I participate. I did win the competition and have a lovely generic award to remember it. I think that Joe would have easily won, but he was the type of guy to take more pleasure seeing his friends or family win, rather than to win himself.

Cont...please excuse my tech challenge...
And she chose the beautiful cup that Joe had given me.... As we sat and sipped our tea we talked about you guys, life, love,death,family and hope. It was a meaningful "moment" for her and I....made even more memorable because we had that lovely cup....
We love you guys dearly are so grateful to have you in our family and lives.
With love and deep sympathy,
Your Katsuda family

Dear Gerry and Elaine.
We are so sorry that Joe has passed. Though we were able to meet you only a few years ago... It was evident that Joe was an exceptionally caring, kind and loving person. I realize now that we had barely scratched the surface of his life...
Kamiko spent time with me on Tuesday and she asked to share my sweet tea.... I asked if she wanted it in a tea cup..... For the first time ever, she did ..... And she chose the

I am still saddened by the loss of my dear friend Joe. I had a chance to work with him in CDPH and we have so many memories together while we're at work. He's one of my closest coworker in the office. We always eat lunch together, he always visits me in my cubie to chat and to catch up sharing his traveling experiences or anything that's happening in his life, laughing with me and talk anything under the sun. He's a jolly and very transparent person that's why I like him as my friend. We even share secrets because I trust him as a person and as a friend. I will never forget the time that I felt sick at work that I forgot my medicine, I did not know that he went out even though it's so hot outside and went to the nearest pharmacy to buy a medicine and he gave it to me. Even though he moved to a different office he's still texting me and updating me with his new life in different office and in Palm Springs. He even texted me last Christmas and who would have know that it's my last message from him. There are so many memories that I want to share but my heart is breaking now thinking that he's no longer with us. Thank you friend for the short but memorable moments with you. I will treasure the friendship that we built up. I will never forget you. I will pray for you eternal soul and will pray for your bereaved family to have strength in facing this grieving moments. Goodbye Joe.

Late Supper after Holiday Ice Show (2014)

Fishing Trip in Maui, Hawaii (2011)

Remembering Joe, we said a little prayer, "Lay me down to sleep & pray the Lord my soul to keep". He was truly a child of Christ. Here on Earth, a joy to behold... Smiles for miles & charades for every occasion. *Included is the photo we took in 2014 after Elaine finished performing her Holiday Ice Show. There we so many good memories together. We thank you for sharing them with us. We will certainly miss him... Bill Delao & Brandon Lee in SF.

I had the opportunity to work with Joe, and wanted to share a few of my memories of the likable, generous, fun-loving Joe I knew. The number one thing that stands out in my mind is how much he loved his family and how proud he was of Elaine. Joe was a good guy to work with. He was always down to business and a total straight-shooter while surveying, but as soon as it was time to break for lunch, "fun Joe" came to life. He would joke, laugh, and partake of a tasty meal out with the team, which always included a diet coke. The picture was taken in Santa Barbara on one such break from work. Joe had an incredible collection of Aloha shirts. In fact, it was a highlight of my workday to see what shirt Joe came to work wearing that day. He was always all-in when it came to festivities, and he had incredible costumes. I think he won most, if not all of the "fashion" contests at work parties. I know Joe really liked being a nurse, and he had great stories about working in the ER. I recall the two of us going to lunch while on survey, and he told nurse stories the entire time... which I thoroughly enjoyed. Joe lived life to the fullest, and that's what I'll remember.

We will always remember the family gatherings each year from San Francisco, Alameda and Los Angeles. Joe had such a big heart and always carried a contagious smile. Always enjoyed listening to one of the many stories he would tell. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this very difficult time. We will miss you and may you rest in peace. Love Chad and Brittany Buthker

Enjoyed our last Thanksgiving together. Missing you all so much- hugs Gerry & Elaine.

Missing Uncle Joe and sending my love to Uncle Gerry and Elaine. I am thinking of all the good memories with Uncle Joe- he was always telling jokes and making everyone laugh, sharing stories, and I loved bonding over nursing together. He was an amazing Uncle and I will miss him a lot. I am so thankful I was able to see him in October in Palm Springs and ate a very yummy brunch made by Gerry together, I will always cherish that memory. He always made me feel welcome and I loved visiting ever since I was young. Love, Nicole Leppi

Always smiling. So generous. Always with a funny picture to show or story to tell. I feel so lucky and blessed to have met and befriended someone like Joe. Supplier of diet coke, driving like a maniac and screaming each time he made a sharp turn, giggles, surprising us by speaking tagalog words, and big bear morning hugs to start our work day... I miss you, Joe.

After Joe moved to San Francisco, in the early 1980s, just as the AIDs crisis began to take hold, he took a job at San Francisco General's 5-A ward, which was the first AIDs ward in the nation. On his first day, his charge nurse brought him into a patient's room. She asked him to sit down and hold the patient's hand. She said that you will know when it's time to get back to me. Joe sat holding the gentleman's hand, and within a couple of hours, he died. The charge nurse told him "Welcome to 5-A, you now understand what your job is, we take care of the dying, making them comfortable and feel loved. For many we are their only family, their family of birth has rejected them and their friends are fearful of visiting. In those years before there were antiviral treatments, all of their patients died. Joe learned what the end of life was like. He wasn't afraid to die but valued the joy of having a loving and caring family. His compassion for caring for the sick and needy blossomed, future jobs included caring for inmates, supporting the homeless who were wanting to get off drugs, being the nursing administrator in nursing homes and finally inspecting and licensing hospitals and nursing homes, along with investigating incidents of possible abuse of the elderly and disabled. Now you know a little more about Joe's work life and character.

Dear Gerry,
I am a friend of your sister Pam. From our conversations, it is clear Joe was truly your life/soulmate. What a blessing to be so loved. My deepest sympathy and prayers of comfort are with you at this difficult time.
Syd Ogborn

Thinking of all the great trips we made to Napa, Alaska, Maui, Hong Kong, China, and the family times spent together. Rest in peace Joe. You will be missed. Brad Leppi

Dear Gerry and Elaine:
We send our love and condolences and hope you will be comforted by happy memories of Joe. He touched so many lives; we will always remember him fondly. Thinking of you and hoping you will find comfort in remembering the good times and the special closeness that you and Joe shared together.
Joe lives on in the lives he touched and in the love he shared. He will be warmly remembered.

With Sympathy,
Che and Debbie

Dear Gerry and Elaine,

You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Joe lived a full and respected life.

Jay and LaDonna Kleven

Dear Gerry and Elaine,
I am so saddened to hear about your loss. My thoughts are with you and your family. 
Much love,
Sabrina

Bracebridge Dinner at Yosemite years ago...I will always cherish the family trips we all took together. We were blessed to have you in our family, you will be dearly missed. Pam Leppi

Fourth of July parade in Alameda California a few years back. One of the many adventures we’ve had a long way.

“Daddy I have a monkey in my pants“ Elaine managed to hide small plastic monkeys in her leotard to play with later after her performance on stage at the Palace of fine arts.

I was lucky enough to be a part of the positive force known as the Tseng-Gill eco-system. Joe had a huge heart that sustained and nourished all those around him. Joe, Gerry, and Elaine will always be pillars of the Japanese Bilingual Bicultural Program in San Francisco.

Joe’ im gonna miss you I’m very saddened your gone too soon my friend. Gone from our sight, but never from our hearts. “Our thoughts and prayers are with you.”

Feb 2020 at Van Nuys Office

2000 - Joe and his newly found bio family. On his right is his sister, Shonda DePue. On his far right is his brother, Rick Cowan. In front of Joe are his aunts and cousins.

Joe in '93 or '94 with one of the many Buddhas in Bangkhok.

I'm not sure what surprised him this Xmas Day. Maybe the hat, or maybe one of our friends off camera. Whatever it was, this shot really captured his playful spirit.

A younger Joe moving into his new apartment at 518 Noe Street.

Nearly 30 years ago, Joe and I shared a little apartment on Noe street. He and I both moved our separate ways, but to this day, I knew I could call him and he would drop everything to be there for me. He was one of the kindest people I knew and a true friend.

Always in my heart

My sister, my mother! When you left this world , I realized I was no longer without a mother. You were my mother and my mentor. I miss you everyday! I remember your last words to me, your greetings and daily conversations. You would call me every Sunday without fail, I used to look forward to those calls. Your departure created a big vacuum in the family that no one else can fill. You radiated with love and affection and you were the binding force in the family.

"Ka re o yemi,
Ómó Erin uro
Ómó limupón ajiyanjiyan
Ómó limupón ajojuduóle
Ómó aro tabatubu aśó wó mupón yóyó
Ki éru óba mója,ki agba igbede mója
Ka joko sule ka lo asó alarabara
Ómó Olu gboyegun ko epe kiribojo Lapa jé
Apa adiyé oni jé
Kiribojo yélè yélè
Ó yé odidi óni jé lulé ré

Keep resting with the angels. I will never forget your love.

Awawu.

A poem excerpt quote for my favourite Filipino teacher:

Sa dilim ng kamangmangan, ang isip ko nang mamulat,
ang kuko ng kamalia’y nakita kong umiilag…
… Nguni, bakit kaya baga sa ganyan nang bisa’t lakas
ng kaya ko’y tila pa rin hangal akong lumalabas?
… Kaya, Tao: dumunong man, magpalalo’y di ka dapat,
Pagka’t walang karunungang di may hangga at kasukat.

Mula sa Ako si Dunong (Sino ka? Ako’y si… 60 Sagot ng mga Tula) ni Lope K Santos, 1946.

Rest in peace po, thank you for sharing the beauty of our language, and God bless your family.

Anna S Torres
Maryknoll Class 84

I remember your 60the bday I love u and miss you so much mum you were indeed a wonderful mother

rip mum

Missing you mummy

Growing up people always made the comment that I don't look like my parents, but most like my Lola Lyn. It didn't bother me; my Lola was a teacher and a writer - who knew I would begin to follow in her footsteps. I was not only her granddaughter, but secretary at times who typed out her emails to all of her students. Not only did I learn Tagalog from this, but I learned how to decode her hard-to-read cursive. She cared a lot for her students and every email and letter was written with love. She was strict at times...but a strong figure in raising my siblings and cousins and I, even from another country. We love and miss her, but I am happy she is with Lolo Ding now...and neighbors with Lola Vhie again :)

A tribute to my wife and kids Sheila passed away Christmas 1995, Brian passed on 2017 David passed 2020. My wife Royetta passed after 54 years of marriage in 2015. I love each and everyone of my kids very much and my wife. My wife was a special person. I will be glad when my time is up and I can be in heaven with them,then our family will be together again.
Father and husband Darrell

Giovanni


Thank you so much your life has been an incredible blessing to me and my family and we have our memories in the work that you did for us on our home and all that great advice you have given thank you so much you'll be greatly missed you're so blessed you have such a caring heart thank you so much your life has been amazing and your children live on may God bless you and rest in peace thank you so much your life has blessed your father and mother are proud and so is your family. David Darrell. Dungan. jr Son,Father, Uncle and Grandfather

A tribute to my wife and kids Sheila passed away Christmas 1995, Brian passed on 2017 David passed 2020. My wife Royetta passed after 54 years of marriage in 2015. I love each and everyone of my kids very much and my wife. My wife was a special person. I will be glad when my time is up and I can be in heaven with them,then our family will be together again.
Father and husband Darrell

A tribute to my wife and kids Sheila passed away Christmas 1995, Brian passed on 2017 David passed 2020. My wife Royetta passed after 54 years of marriage in 2015. I love each and everyone of my kids very much and my wife. My wife was a special person. I will be glad when my time is up and I can be in heaven with them,then our family will be together again.
Father and husband Darrell

A tribute to my wife and kids Sheila passed away Christmas 1995, Brian passed on 2017 David passed 2020. My wife Royetta passed after 54 years of marriage in 2015. I love each and everyone of my kids very much and my wife. My wife was a special person. I will be glad when my time is up and I can be in heaven with them,then our family will be together again.
Father and husband Darrell

One of our favorite places in Atlanta is an ice cream shop in a caboose in Chamblee called Frosty's. Courtney and Sabra would share a banana split, which was HUMONGOUS. Courtney, who could be a little cheeky, would always send Sabra up to the counter by herself to buy and carry back the ice cream treat. The other customers in line would be wide-eyed in surprise with the sight of such a little tiny girl with this giant banana split.

Brian there are so many memories that we shared us going to the Renaissance fair out to dinner, going to the local walmart every week you giving me my first modeling book going to the pet store and mall everyone eating family dinner and so much more you were so kind and strong you are with the angels and with everyone else up there in Paradise.

I'm sad for myself that these wonderful people in David's family, and now David also, have left this world. But, at the same time I know they are with the Lord. David was seven years younger than me, and aside from my Uncle Darrell and Aunt Royetta, he had the biggest impact on me.

I remember David when he was just a little guy. He was my cousin, and I was fortunate to spend time with his whole family. I remember him as a beautiful boy, with a beautiful spirit. He had the longest eyelashes I have ever seen on anyone. Not just on a guy but on any girl I ever knew. He had a wonderful, calming spirit, even at a young age. I remember my Uncle Darrell used to call him, "Pudda Punt" (not really sure of the spelling or meaning on that). But sometimes life interferes with life, even with the best intentions. They moved away and I lost touch with that part of the family. The only things I knew in the years since those days, came from my dad - oh, and the occasional meeting at family reunions. It saddens me that I did not stay in touch and never knew him as we got older. And now he's gone. But I know he is in Heaven right now and that gives me comfort.

Lamentations 3:21-26

21 This I recall to my mind,
Therefore, I have hope.
22 The LORD’S loving kindnesses indeed never ceases,
For His compassions never fail.
23 They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.
24 “The LORD is my portion,” says my soul,
“Therefore, I have hope in Him.”
25 The LORD is good to those who wait for Him,
To the person who seeks Him.
26 It is good that he waits silently
For the salvation of the LORD.

This is for my cousin Brian:

Isaiah 40:29-31

29 He gives power to the weak
and strength to the powerless.
30 Even youths will become weak and tired,
and young men will fall in exhaustion.
31 But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength.
They will soar high on wings like eagles.
They will run and not grow weary.
They will walk and not faint.

For my cousin Shelia:

Romans 8:38

And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.

This is for my Aunt Royetta:

Luke 1:45

“…And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what had been spoken to her by the Lord.”

I will remember all the happy memories, the doll you bought me for Christmas when I was little and we went to the waterparks, your shepherds pie and you taking me to my first concert and modeling events, how happy you were when we brought you your guitar stand you couldn't wait to put your guitar in it and many more. You were brave polite and spoke your mind and you helping papa with building the house we love you and will miss you dearly and will hold you close to our hearts.

You will be missed by so many! Rest in peace.

Aunt Mayrene

I am saddened to hear of the passing of both your parents this year. They were both friends and colleagues with my father, Norman Annis, who passed away in 2018. I was going through some of his photos and came across a beautiful portrait of him that your mother did in 1958-59;
I'd never seen it before. I'd share it if I knew how. Anyway, I wanted to send my
warm sympathies and memory on his behalf as well as mine to you and your family.
Eric Annis

My deepest sympathies to you and your family. I pray for peace and comfort as you grieve. Tia Helen will be missed; I remember her kindness and the love she had for her family. She was very caring and generous and went out of her way to make you feel at home. I remember her fondly and grieve with you. You are in my thoughts and I’m holding you all in my heart.
With love,
Belén

My condolences, I will always remember how warm and welcoming Aunt Helen was. I always felt welcome when I visited. I am praying for her and I'm sure her laugh will brighten up heaven.
Benji

I have known Tita Lynn for almost as long as I have known Celine. I remember her most as a strong, caring, fun loving mom. I feel a hole knowing that she is gone, yet also feeling a sense of peace knowing that she is on her joyful journey back to the Lord and her beloved husband. I pray for your Tita Lynn and Tito Ding and for all her family. You shall be missed. Rest now Tita Lynn.

It rained hail yesterday in California. This brought a smile on our otherwise grieving period. I felt that you were with Him and said they needed that. Thank you!- Cristina

Mahal naming Ms. Erlinda Restituto,

Marami pong salamat sa lahat ng panahon na ginugol ninyo sa pagturo sa amin ng Filipino Naaalala ko kayo bilang isang masipag, mahusay, responsable, at "gentle" na guro sa Maryknoll High School. Kabilang po ako sa mga estudyante ninyo sa Maryknoll High School Batch 1972. Dahil tinitingalaan ko kayo bilang guro noon, naaalala ko po na inanyayahan ko pa kayong sumama sa isang talakayan kung saan pinag-usapan ang pinangangambahang pagdedeklara ng batas militar. At naging totoo nga po ang pagdedeklara noong Setyembre 1972.

Ayon sa isa kong kaklase, kayo ay isang istrikto subali't "gentle" na guro. Ayon sa isa ko pang kaklase, naaalala niya kayo sa mga kuwento tungkol sa mga "dwendeng nagsasayaw habang nakapaligid sa apoy" sa inyong bahay (nang kayo ay maliit pa). Bagama't 'di ko ito tuwirang narinig mula sa inyo, lubos kong nauunawaan ang ganitong uri ng mga kuwento. Sa loob ng isang linggo, ang aming pamilya ay nakaranas din ng mga karanasang paranormal, na nabigyan ng kalutasan ng mga Spirit Questors dalawang dekada na ang nakaraan.

Nawa'y masaya na kayong magkapiling ni Ginoong Restituto sa araw ng inyong anibersaryo. Maligayang Anibersaryo po sa inyo!

Nagmamahal,

Maria Cristina (Tina) Pargas-Bawagan
MCHS, Batch 1972

RIP Art from your old advisee Bill. Thanks for encouraging me in my studies at UCLA. It took another guy from Florida, I guess, to show me how incredible the American West is, and California in particular. Art, you opened up our field to lots and lots of people and I imagine they are as grateful to you as I am--you changed many lives for the better. Rest in peace,

-- Bill.

Remembering with Bridget and Sarah how Art used to break into song at the least (or no apparent) provocation - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t20nMteOLqc

Today is a day that people don't want to see their loved ones leave this earth. Hi! My name is Kirby Ngo. I'm the husband of Cristina Restituto, Erlinda’s youngest daughter. I would like to share my personal and family relationship within my mother-in-law. Before I start my testimonial, I would like to say thank to everyone who are participating or reading everyone’s messages to her. I met my mother in law only a few days before the wedding day. She resided in the Philippines while my fiancée, her daughter and I at that time lived here in the US. I already knew that my mother-in-law was a Filipino teacher. I thought that that it would be easy to get to know her since I speak the language. When I started having a conversation with her, I didn’t think that I should be watching my grammar. Back then I didn’t realize that her mastery of the language was profound and that I wasn’t even close to speaking it correctly. I never felt that she looked down on me because I speak “baluktot” or what we call lousy Tagalog. She never corrected me. When I talked to her she appeared relaxed and listened to everything I said. She was open to any kinds of stories and doesn’t pass judgement on her crazy son in law. I guess, I can say now that I did pass her standards. As proof I am now the husband of Cristina. As time went on, I had to remind myself that I shouldn’t be joking around with her all the time since she may think it’s disrespectful. But after a few years, I started feeling more comfortable and accepted by her and the rest of the family. When we’d call her, we would tell jokes and she would share a new word in Tagalog for me to learn. I loved laughing with her. And I can say we got along quite well. I do miss my mother in law especially the joke time and discussing serious matters in life. Two days ago, one of her former students called the siblings on FB and I heard her talk about my mother-in-law. She remembers how most of them hated learning Filipino but because she always had stories to tell, they learned to appreciate the subject and looked forward to every class. They’ve kept in touch and always included her in their class reunions. I was overwhelmed by how she described her fondly and realized how she touched a lot of her students. One thing I can say to all my mother-in-law’s students, Erlinda Restituto left us with an exceptional legacy as a teacher, mother and as a good human being. You guys are the best students. You all embody humility and kindness. And she was lucky to have you all in her lifetime. I’m sure she is looking down on us now from Heaven and saying, “Don’t worry, life continues on.” For sure, she is in Good Hands now. I love you Mother! RIP.

David was an amazing person. If it weren't for him I would never have become a gamer. David was someone that would put everyone first he would always make sure that his brother and I were taken care of when I lived with him. He was always a giving person and would never ask for anything in return. When I lived with him he made sure we always had food to eat, he was an amazing chef. He would always clean up the house. You could say he was a father figure to me we always talked all the time when I would get home from work. I would always come to him when I needed advice about something. We have shared so many great memories over the years words can't express how much we will miss you. We will miss you forever and always. Fly high with the angels tonight and forever. I hope your in heaven right now with an amazing guitar and playing a song for us just like you used to. Till we meet again you will be missed Rest in Piece My Amazing Uncle.

Your Loving Nephew <3

Dear Tita Lynn,
Daghang salamat sa inspirasyon na ibinigay niyo sa akin para pasukin ang larangan ng pagtuturo.
RIP!
Ella

with Heartfelt sympathy, Tita Lyn you will always be in our hearts ❤ (kayong 3 Tita Vilma and Tito also) From Zita Alvarez and Jennifer Miranda

I'm remembering that Florence and Art were great art collectors - in particular, that their home was filled with beautiful sculptures. Recently, Art wanted the collection to be housed where a larger audience could view and enjoy it - so he gifted many pieces to the UCLA Luskin Conference Center.

Fittingly, Bernie Luskin (the man behind the Luskin Center) was one of Art's first students and the Center is dedicated to "leading academic minds, medical innovators, researchers, political leaders and social visionaries meet[ing] to exchange ideas that will move our world forward."

Living not far from UCLA, Art enjoyed visiting his sculptures, chatting with staff and lunching at the Luskin Center with friends, often saying “I’ve got them in a second home” at the conference center. And we have somewhere to enjoy memories of Art and Florence (https://luskinconferencecenter.ucla.edu/ucla-professor-emeritus-gifts-sculpture-collection-to-conference-center/).

Arthur M. Cohen in 2017, discussing six editions of The American Community College, as well as plans for a seventh.

Art, Florence, and Carrie Kisker in 2013, displaying the plaque honoring Art and Florence as the inaugural recipients of the Council for the Study of Community Colleges' Arthur M. Cohen and Florence B. Brawer Distinguished Service Award

Art and Florence in 1974, at the establishment of the Center for the Study of Community Colleges

Art and Florence

Art and Florence

Art and Florence in Italy

Art and Florence at her UCLA graduation

What a beautiful memorial to a beautiful woman. Terry was an inspiration to me from the first day I met her until the last time I was with her. Her grit and "just do it" attitude nudged (i.e. pushed) me into my adventure as a woman doing God's work. She used to laugh watching me corral my boys in church on Sundays, always with a piece of mothering advice that was at first harsh but then oh so perfect. And her zany wit aways made them laugh as well! Even with her physical set backs she was always working on something crafty and cool and her ornery self remained endearing. I already miss her encouragement and advice on Food Pantry issues as well as her political camaraderie but I have no doubt her hands will be on the shoulders of all of us who continue in her footsteps. I will miss you Terry and love you forever! Put in a good word for me!

My family and I are previleged to have been able to share her time on earth.  I know that she is looking after all of us from great beyond.  We love you and may you rest in peace.

Hi Mama, As much as we’re heartbroken and missing you now, I feel grateful that you are finally resting and with God. Being reunited up there with Papa, Kuya Mike, and your beloved brothers and sisters, at this special time of celebration and special family reunions brings us peace and comfort. We’ve created this space to honour and remember you, but it will also offer us solace and joy in celebrating the life you’re led and the hearts you’ve touched. Thank you Mama - you and and Papa have been the best parents one could have, showing us by example how to be strong and independent, kind and grateful, generous and forgiving, humble and joyful. I hope I’ve made you proud as I continually strive to be the kind of mother and person you have been. I will be strong and smile through the tears, as I remember you. My children, your apos - Alyssa, Ryan, Jessica and Alex, are so blessed to have spent special moments with you. We love you and will you miss you and Papa so much.

With Van Sabillo-Buenaventura and Erin Buenaventura Sep 21, 2005

With Van Sabillo-Buenaventura and Erin Buenaventura Sep 21, 2005

This song reminds me of my Mom. Enjoy this simple version done by two sisters....

As well as singing together in choir, Terry and I shared many adventures, both here and when I visited her in England where she lived for a while. When I married the love of my life, she sang at our wedding. She also sang at my son's wedding. These were gifts from her to us- and what a gift to hear her magnificent voice ringing through the church! She called me sister and my husband brother, something that I will treasure. I will especially remember her everytime that I take a bite of "Christmas Cake".

This is a glorious tribute to our amazing Terry - you've captured every incredible detail! Thanks so much and know how much we miss her.

"Mean and ornery, as usual." That was Terry....and always with a twinkle in her eyes. She was a blessing to all who knew her and to all who received the benefits of her many volunteer efforts.

My deepest sympathy to you and your family, dear brother. I know you are missing her greatly. I will always remember her kind and loving ways. Heaven is a little bit brighter with Helen up there feasting at the Lord's table with her beloved son, Xavy. Love from your sis, Cecy, Jim and family.

This song came into my head today, and it made me think of Courtney, who got to catch up with his mother, father, and brother four months ago today: https://youtu.be/8xVRVfqAV0s
Sending love to his family, especially during this holiday season.

This is when I found out I was pregnant with you. I was so happy.

I love you man, had a good cry today for both of you. 12/07/2020

Mrs.Patterson was a beautiful loving person. I pray for healing and peace for all of her loved ones. Candace Hall-Murdock

Although I've had five years to reflect, there are still no words to express how truly devastating and unexpected losing Vlad was. Vlad was a truly exceptional person in every way; his kindness knew no boundaries and his love no limits. He always approached life with so much positivity and passion, always striving to expand his horizons, excel at everything he did and to help everyone he knew in any and every way possible. Vlad loved to learn and to teach, always happy to share his knowledge and wisdom especially when it came to championing an active healthy lifestyle and helping people improve their lives in any form. He had a beautiful inquisitive mind, always full of interesting random facts, ideas and adorable jokes. Having spoken with him everyday since we met, I can honestly say that one of his most endearing traits was how passionately he always cared... about all of the people around him, about the planet and sustainability, about the future and all of his dreams and aspirations. He was so ambitious and hard working, and simultaneously extremely family-oriented. He was an incredible son and brother and couldn't wait to have kids. Having played soccer all of his life, one of his biggest dreams was coaching his future kids soccer team. It was a topic that came up quite often as we planned our future together. Although our plans were tragically shattered, I couldn't be more grateful to have been so lucky and blessed to have had Vlad in my life and to have been loved by him. Grateful for every single minute we had together, for everything he and our relationship taught me and how much having him, his love and support, in my life has shaped the person I am today. As I carry Vlad in my heart and mind forever, the only comfort there is, is in knowing that he truly lived a wonderful life, filled with happiness, love and lots of incredible moments and memories. He loved his family so much and genuinely appreciated and enjoyed his time with his friends and colleagues. He always made the most of every day and tried to inspire others to do the same. Knowing him, Vlad would have wanted to be celebrated rather than mourned so may his memory always live on through everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him and his life continue to be celebrated by each of us. עליו השלום

Joyce, you will always be remembered by many as the kindest loving person. You will missed by us all.
Veronica

Auntie, we spent little time together but the time I did spend with you will always be special to me and I am glad to have met you. May your soul continue to rest in peace.

Sister in law, your life was a blessing, in your ways you touched so many lives, always available to advice, encourage, motivate. Your loved beyond words can describe and thoroughly missed, RIP Joyce.

You were an amazing big sister Joyce, your thoughtfulness was a gift I will always treasure. You will always be in my heart, thank you for being such a wonderful inspiration. Rest in Peace.

“I remember my mother's prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life.”

I miss you dearly Moma.
Love your granddaughter, Cathy Patterson

Hi sister Joyce, your untimely passing has surely robbed us all of a very kind person with a most beautiful spirit. The tribute your child has written is indeed a very befitting description of you. It only feels like yesterday when we took refuge under late Andama's roof in 1980 on Acacia Avenue. May the Almighty Father rest your soul in eternal peace. Amen. Molly Àsea

Hi Auntie Joyce,

It is amazing how time flies. I really miss you but hope you are resting well and enjoying heaven. RIP, love Jamil Olweny xxx

Happy Thanksgiving! Miss you!

Sophia, I think of you often and your bright spirit. You were such a joy to be around and always lit up the room. I absolutely loved teaching you and seeing you and your sister around the studio. I remember when you shot out of class one day to make sure your sister remembered to give you a ride, I couldn't be mad at your ballet run out the door or your smile on the way back. I always think of our fun times in class and chatting with you about tennis or whatever was on your mind that day. You were so kind to the other dancers. You were especially kind to Delanie as a new dancer to the studio. You really helped her fit in by always being willing to help her learn a new step or being her partner so she didn't have to go alone. I will always think of you and your bright smile, Love, Kristin Matarazzo

Miss you, dear friend

I can't hear Careless Whisper without thinking of Jack and the Sexy Sax Man. We probably watched this video 10 times in one sitting. Love you, cousin. xoxo, Carey

Please see updated details for Mums funeral service.

I couldn’t ask for a better Father.

This photo was taken in the summer of 2014 in Rachel's garden when I (center) visited her, along with Diane Paxton (left). I first met both of them at Boston University, where we were all students in the theatrical design program. When I think about Rachel, I think of a woman with a completely unique blend of wonderful creativity and a practical matter-of-fact approach. She was easy to be with. One of the many things that I admire about Rachel was her going back to school to get a degree as a dietician. She worked so hard at it! On her first job she was sent to the Mayo Clinic to work for a month, and so I got to see her (I live in Minneapolis). I didn't know that would be the last time that I would see her in person. I so regret that I won't be able to visit her when I go out east for a visit. I never had the opportunity to meet you-- her children, but she talked about both of you! I am so sorry that you had to lose her too soon.

Even though he never would have voluntarily listened to this song, it came up on my playlist today, and made me think of him https://youtu.be/pNPf-aP-bsA

My uncle at my dad’s 59th Bday

I would love to know how many nicknames he disbursed all these years, I know most of the family have one.

i 'met' 'trialfa omega', the omega man, online via social media some years ago now. you'd be surprised just how much can be gauged through this man's words, his philosophy & values. without a doubt he was the most reflective, spiritually connected, intellectual (while remaining humble & uplifting at all times) i have been lucky & honoured to encounter. i had & always will hold the upmost respect & esteem for the individual i am proud to call 'friend'. it's clear that his impact on this world has & always will leave a permanent mark - one that will never fade...the lives he has clearly impacted & touched is a mammoth task - one that not many can ever achieve in their lifetime, yet, he did & yet, he still does....my only 'regret' is that (being someone outside of the US) we never had the chance to meet in person - to hold philosophical musings the way we did 'online' or to train together as another passionate martial arts practitioner. his presence will be missed but i hope to see the man i call 'friend' again once outside of this world.

Mum and her little Son x

Mum and her little Son x

XXX

Jack's friends' Kudo Board

Some of Jack's friends put together a Kudo Board for him here.

So many memories involving Rachel. What a distinctive personality and wide range of interests she had. Her activism - she had just returned from the first cancer operation in Philly and had volunteered to canvas voters to support Beto O'Rourke, so off we went. Her deep love of all things family - she cultivated relationships with all of us who were her lucky relatives, drew us out to beaches near and far (my memories are of a wonderful day-long gathering at Duxbury Beach) and was the lively presence at family celebrations. Her exquisite artistry shining through her quilts, her knitting, her interesting and beautiful clothes. We shared a love of gardening, which was often a topic in long rambling conversations which would eventually cover politics, personal issues and anything and everything else. I have some of her iris, and we traded amaryllis plants back and forth. Her ease, her sharp wit, her graciousness as a hostess. Her positive and cheerful energy, seemingly effortless yet so dependable. Her fearlessness, leading her to offer support in difficult situations where others took flight, and of course to face her illness in a way that amazed me. Oh, Rachel, I will miss you so much.

Photo from Mark Ketcham in Fort Lauderdale

Photo from Mark Ketcham in Fort Lauderdale

From Diane Paxton: Rachel was creative to her core; we've all been lucky that she shared her brilliance and generosity with us. I'm attaching a photo of the two of us in her beautiful and bountiful garden. She had a light touch with creating the vignettes, fire pit, and pathways to meander, respecting the characteristics of the plants and balancing them to shape her family's and visitors' experience. Yet, she was also bold, fearlessly transplanting mature shrubs and giving homes to unusual varieties that she became intrigued by at horticultural sales, at Tower Hill and other places. Anytime that I visited, she'd offer me something to take home-- in this photo, rhubarb, which she knew that I especially love. In any aspect of Rachel, she lived into her passion for these things. As a creative, brilliant, generous, bold, strong, and dedicated person, she was true to herself and us-- in her quilts, political work, garden, cooking, fighting her cancer, and most of all, her friendships. There are words, but none can express how much I will miss Rachel.

Mum and Dad's Wedding

Rachel made my wedding dress for me. It was not your usual wedding dress, but I still felt like a princess in it. There was a jacket that I took off for the reception, but the fun was going to G Street Fabrics in DC with her, all the fittings, secretly buying some fabric she loved as a thank you, and then having her at our wedding. She's remained a solid friend from BU to Eclipse.

my sweet, brave , fierce, kind teacher and friend. i am thankful for your generous teachings you offered me to bring me to who i am today. i carry your kindness in my heart, your fierceness in my actions when necissary, to be brave in the face of change and sweetness in my unfolding healing. i carry you with me in my journey forward. i thank you for the support you offered me and send my prayers for a gentle embrace with pachamama as you return home to where i will join you one day.
talon

Gerd, Mariette, Chris and Elli (Omi). We were deeply saddened to hear of Marie's (Mom's) sudden passing. She had such beautiful spirit and will always hold a special place in our hearts. We are comforted in knowing the she, together with Grandma Laurie, are watching over us from above and keeping us safe. Our deepest condolences for your loss. Our hearts are with you during this difficult time.
Holly, Greg & Ashley

Here's a photo of Rachel as a delegate to the Democratic State Convention in 2018. She was also involved with the Diversity and Outreach Committee that the Grafton Dems started up this year. During her final months, Rachel hand-wrote nearly 200 letters with Vote Forward (votefwd.org) encouraging unlikely voters in swing states to vote - that's more than double the number of letters of the average Vote Forward volunteer. Between this and the various other organizations she was involved in, Rachel's commitment to building a better world was truly inspiring.

I only met Rachel as an adult with kids. One memory I have is of being at Wingaersheek Beach north of Boston in the aughts with Rachel, Eleanor, Harry, my kids and some other family/friends. Rachel's energy was so positive, curious, and present. We all had interesting and easy conversations with each other and the way her kids interacted with my younger kids was also very present and fun. Good apples from a life-giving tree. I'm also grateful for the family events (Bar/Bat Mitvahs) where we had a chance to connect. Rachel's memory will be an inspiration and a blessing for us all.

I'm so grateful we were able to spend time together both virtually via weekly Zoom calls, and in such a special way, in person one last time recently at the Healing Garden. I had the added pleasure of carpooling with her that day, and spending quality one on one time while driving. She was such a strong woman, who put actions behind her words. I knew when I pulled up to her house I was at the right place. There was a rainbow Free Library box set up, loving yard signs supporting all, and of course the political ones as well. She pointed out where she likes to walk to town to get coffee, and was concerned that it wasn't possible for her to do so anymore with the progression. She wanted to live her life her way, and she did so right to the end. I take comfort in that. I will miss her strength and compassion.

Okay, it's a little blurry, but I wanted to share this memory of making cookies together at Rachel's, a family tradition started by Irene, continued by so many in our family. As usual, stretched to the limits of sanity..er...creativity. For many years, I would get a call from Rachel right about now to make a date for early December, bring the family, and do ... this. She always had a few batches of (Irene's recipes) cookies ready to eat too! Miss her so much, and amazed at how she lives on on those she touched. May her memory always be a blessing.

Dear Eleanor and Harrison, I'm so very sorry to hear this sad news about your dear mother. Please know I'm thinking about you both as you mourn the loss of such a wonderful person in your lives. What a beautiful tribute you've made here in her memory, Eleanor. I had the great pleasure of working with your mom to photograph her Tree of Life quilt in October of 2008 which is when she finished it, I believe. I had greeting cards made for her with the photograph, pictured. What a wonderful memory of time spent getting to know Rachel. She will be missed.

I just want to have a place to remember all these messages so I am posting them here from Caring Bridge:

As my older Cousin, Rachel always showed me inspiration in living well, from building sandcastles or sharing blackberries from the same bush with grace, easy laughter and thoughtfulness. My thoughts and prayers for you all are on my heart and mind. --Christina Ketcham

I am so sorry for your loss. I am so happy I was able to reconnect with her at UUSGU this past year or so. We were able to reminisce when I had Harry way back when he was in my fourth grade class. We made a new powerful connection via our social justice committee. Prayers for her and her family. --Donna Trainor

She lives on in you, Eleanor and Harry and the memories we hold dearly of her incredible life and humanity. Sending love to you all. --Mary Ketcham Binauea

So much love for this incredible friend.

Remembering 25 terrific years with this dynamic, funny, intelligent and loving lady. I'd do it again in a minute.

Thank you for this lovely tribute, Eleanor. Rachel was sooo involved in so many things! She has truly been an inspiration and a treasured friend.

I was sad to realize that I was too late to finally reconnect with Marie-Jeanne. She was an important part of my teens. Even if we were 3 years apart, our birthdays were only 4 days apart, creating a special bond, then. She thought me how to dance, got me one of my first job, we were having fun together. Now, whenever I hear the Everly Brothers, I always thought of her because it was her favorite duo then. That picture is the only one I have of both of us together! She will be missed for sure. My deepest sympathies goes out to Mariette, Christopher and Gerd and I would Jeannine her sister and her husband John to whom she was very close! Rest in peace, my dear cousin Marlene

I was sad to realize that I was too late to finally reconnect with Marie-Jeanne. She was an important part of my teens. Even if we were 3 years apart, our birthdays were only 4 days apart, creating a special bond, then. She thought me how to dance, got me one of my first job, we were having fun together. Now, whenever I hear the Everly Brothers, I always thought of her because it was her favorite duo then. That picture is the only one I have of both of us together! She will be missed for sure. My deepest sympathies goes out to Mariette, Christopher and Gerd and I would Jeannine her sister and her husband John to whom she was very close! Rest in peace, my dear cousin Marlene

Rachel was a friend from Drexel University her freshman year. We all lived in the same dorm, and several of us became a "crew" that ate, played and generally just hung out together. She was always warm, bright eyes and a sincere smile, funny and kind. Her laugh is what I'll always remember about her and I am very sorry to be writing this now, and am very sorry for your loss.

My deepest and most sincere codolences for your sudden lost in those crazy times. Marie was among the most compassionate persons around, not forgetting her sense of humour. Please take care of yourselves.

This Tree of Life Quilt by Rachel was a gift commissioned by my mom. Rachel often said it was a gift to both of us, and a sly trick from Miriam to make us closer friends. It was Rachel's idea to make it a Tree of Life, and do it as her first and only appliqué quilt—always eager for a challenge. When I received it, it became my home, both a shelter and a comfort, and a reminder of family roots. The underside fabric was purchased by Rachel's mother Irene in the 1960s. It has fabric in it that my grandfather designed in the 1930s and 40s as well. Posting this photo as a visual image of Rachel's love, imagination, tenacity, design sense, and talent, and of our strong connection, but also as an image of her (and my) faith in nature, in life, in art, in community, in science, in democracy, in family, and in putting pieces together. No one could do this quite like Rachel. Grateful.

Margaret with her Great Grandchild, Roman.

I had a dream about you moonbeam. I was holding you and you were so pretty. I never knew I could love you so much without even knowing you.

I love you mom. I miss you with what is going on I wish I could hug you. Miss you so much.

Gerd, Mariette, Christopher and Elli,
Our deepest condolences for your loss. My mom, my family and I share your griefs. Marie would not have wanted us to stop, sit down and cry. So we are looking and pushing forward with all our strengths. Sending lots of live your way until we can see you again.

Montreal Gazette, November 12,2020.

Mum with all 3 Brothers

Merssage from Jane, Sue and Helen
Margaret's keen intelligence and sense of adventure ensured that her long life was well lived. She travelled all the way to New Zealand and bravely toured the South Island with our father in a small truck - definitely his choice of vehicle. Margaret endured a classic Reg adventure in Skippers Canyon, where the truck had to be temporarily abandoned in a deluge. This may have been the only time that Margaret hitched a ride on her travels. Thanks Margaret, we were very proud to have you as our Auntie! xox

I miss you and Jerry, I love both of you for ever. Sorry I missed your birthdays, I love you guys posted on 11/10/2020

It's been 8years..there are no words

"I wish you could see the ripple of love you are creating on this earth, because then you would never doubt your life has meaning. You do not need to be famous or go do missionary work in order to make an impact in this world. Helping a child feel valued, gifting someone with an unexpected kindness, tending to a wounded bird, in these ways and more, you are building a legacy that will live on forever."
~~ Laurel Bleadon-Maffei

A few of many family photos of Margaret that show what an attractive and lively lady she was and remind us a happier shared times. Family gatherings will never be the same. God bless you. Pat & Pete and James & Jane.

Dear Levi,
I will forever cherish the moments I held you so close to my heart. When I first looked at your eyes I felt something very familiar also peaceful, sweet, loving and just special.
You will forever live In our hearts
With eternal love,
Babi, Ismael and familia

Mom,

I lost the baby and now it gets to be with you.
Please help me to be strong.

rest in peace

Mom, thank you for everything you’ve given us—and the warmth we shared during your precious time on earth. God bless you. Always.

Rest in peace, my dear mom. These candles and lanterns are lit in our backyard in loving memory of you. You are forever in our hearts. Kit Yi and Wayne.

Rest in peace, my dear mom. These candles and lanterns are lit in our backyard in loving memory of you. You are forever in our hearts. Kit Yi and Wayne.

What a beautiful tribute to your wonderful Mother. I enjoyed seeing all the pictures of your Mother over the years. She was so beautiful. I see where Kit got her good looks. She is one to be admired and respected for all that she accomplished. I am sure she would say her biggest accomplishment was her children who brought so much joy to her life. You had the privilege of caring for your Mother during her golden years with such tender loving care. Thank you for welcoming my brother Wayne into your loving family. I feel that your Mother really cared for him. My sincere condolences. Your Mother was loved. She will always be in your hearts. She will never be forgotten.

Respectfully,

Debbie Lenehan
Sister-in-law to Kit
Sister of Wayne

Rest in Perfect Peace Mum.

Test

Sophia, Life has felt cruel and incredibly unfair since last February, when your beautiful life passed on. It still doesn't feel real and I wish more than anything that it wasn't. I think back often through the years of all the memories shared: Longboat Key and swimming in the pool, surprising you in Hilton Head, eating at Dipsy Doodle, going on the Mt. Washington boat, skiing at Sunapee when it was practically all grass, and playing at Grammy and Bapa's house. You were always giggling and had such a special heart Sophia. I fondly remember your love for justice clothing and always chatting about Taylor Swift. I promise you I'll always watch out and be there for Izzy, making sure she's doing okay. We all love and miss you dearly, our lives will never be the same without you. Love, Your cousin Cydnee

Dear Bridget, Paul and Isabel,

Words fall short of expressing my sorrow for your loss. I am deeply sorry and heartbroken to hear about the passing of Sophia.

Sophia was such sweet girl with a big heart. She gave the best hugs!! I always enjoyed the short time I got to spend with her.

I hope your family can find some peace and comfort in this difficult time. I will keep you all in my daily thoughts.

Sincerely,

Marianne Racca

Little Sophia! Everyone's words in this Memorial describing Sophia is exactly precise! She was a beautiful and absolutely wonderful child! Her HUGE smile lit up her whole face (and in turn, lit up everyone else's!) Babysitting, Sunday School, and watching her (and Isabel) grow, undeniably blessed my life. I will forever remember and miss Sophia. To Bridget, Paul & Isabel, please know that you are continually in my prayers. My heart aches especially for you. I really hope we will run into each other again someday - I KNOW I will see Sophia again! All My Love to You!

Courtney was a tenth grader when I watched him learning to ride his unicycle from our house down Potomac Street to the Ellis house. As a teacher at Yorktown, I watched him perform with the school’s gymnastic team. So it was no surprise to hear him talk about his extreme windsurfing on boards so small they had to be mounted wet on the windy Columbia River. I remember his lending me his Laser sailboat on Lake Champlain at Eagle Camp, where the Ellis and Christenson families began vacationing in the 1980s. Courtney could sail it in a stiff breeze; I was not man enough to point the boat up higher than a beam reach. So I admired his physical talents, and my wife and I admired him for his character, his humor, and his joy of living.

Eric Christenson

(Message posted on behalf of Eric and Linda Christenson - Peter G.)

Dear Paul, Bridget, and Isabel,

I have thought for a while about what to write here, and I realized that words are insufficient to convey my sympathies or alleviate your pain in any way. Still, I want you to know that I think of you often, and I appreciate the opportunity to share my fond recollections of Sophia.

As a long-time PE substitute teacher at the HT Lower School, I got to know many of the kids. Over the years, I spent many hours with Sophia, and she was a unique character. She always seemed to be smiling. She had a quirky and cheerful demeanor. She was unfailingly polite, pleasant, and respectful. She had a loyal and close group of friends, and they were highly offended if they were placed on different sides for the athletic activities of the day. I recall them sneaking over to each other’s teams, and I learned quickly to ignore it – elementary school gym class, what difference did it make? I remember much more giggling than kickball going on most days. Sophia seemed to sail about with her own wind – never overly ruffled or bothered by what was going on around her. Perhaps PE was not her favorite class of the day, but she danced through it lightly, with a smile on her face.

Simply put, Sophia was a great girl, and I am certain she is missed tremendously by all who knew her. We lost touch after those elementary school years, but I have lasting memories of her, and I know I speak for many of us out here in saying that Sophia will not be forgotten.

Sincere regards,
Nancy Orbell and family

I left my well entrenched life in Boston for NYC because of Dayton. We lived together for almost 8 months and when we split up I ended up buying an apartment up the street at 400 E 52nd Street. I gave him the best damn surprise 40th Birthday party, complete with a wonderful belly dancer. He never stopped mentioning it when we spoke, albeit, sporadically.
We know Dayton loved woman, I am sorry he never figure out how to settle down with just one permanently, he would have enjoyed being a true, full-time, Dad. I remember well that he was a regular at FAO Schwartz, and savored sending birthday and Christmas presents and cards, all fueling that wonderful smile, hoping it would thrill the child, on the receiving end.
I lost touch these last 20 years...but he did call once while I lived in Westport and wanted to make sure I was happy, and that my son was doing well. He told me it was "important".
He believed in chivalry although his demonstration of it was not always appreciated. Like the time he turned up at my 32nd Birthday party and kicked my then boyfriend in the balls, with 40 guests as witnesses, at the Sky Bar/Clarke Cooke house. I think it even made the local newspaper and David Ray, when I last saw him two years ago, recalled and laughed, at the story.
So glad his firm will live on, he so loved by my memory, making successful, complicated deals.
I will have a glass of sherry in his honor and make sure when Covid is over, to give a firm handshake that would merit a Dayton's thumbs up. RIP Dayton, you made so many special memories for so many of us.

Mom,
I love you. I found out I am pregnant. Never realized how scary it is to be a mom. Know that your granchild will know all about you. Please watch over my child from where you are.

We miss you R.I.P.

Kate and I met Sophia in Kindergarten at HTEA. The girls were in the same homeroom for several years with many wonderful memories of class parties, field trips, birthday parties, and Father Daughter Dances. Sophia had a truly beautiful soul and her smile was contagious. Looking back at pictures from over the years, you can tell the joy that Sophia brought to everything she did. She was a friend to everyone and cared deeply for her friends. As the girls got older, I loved listening to conversations they would have whenever I was driving them to or from somewhere. While Sophia was one of the sweetest girls I’ve ever met, she had also grown into a strong young lady. The girls were talking about a somewhat sexist comment one of the boys had made in class. I distinctly remember Sophia saying “Oh honey, no.” She was having none of it. Kate and I miss Sophia and we will never forget her.

May her name be for a blessing

Having Sophia in our VPK class was like having a constant bright light in the room. Her smile was larger than life and even at such a young age she exuded kindness and joy everywhere she went. She was a very curious and delightful child. Even though I didn’t have the opportunity to know her as she grew up. I was always excited to see updates on FB and her sweetness and beauty would shine through her photos. I can’t imagine the loss the Chiuchiolo Family must feel every day but I want them to know that the pre-school family will always be here for them in prayer, friendship and for any other needs that they may have. My sincere condolences.
Pam Langford

May his name be for a blessing

Aug 1/20 taken during our last visit

The Sun God 1981 Watercolour by Wayne Hryciw

Posted on behalf of Padmani:

An open letter to Dee’s friends & family. . .
Dee, I first noticed you at a Sunday morning AA meeting
on the 2nd floor of 1311 York Street, Denver. You struck
me as a kooky, flamboyant woman who loved color the
way I did. Your sincerity, authenticity, openness,
confidence, & unique perspectives impressed me next.
Later, when depression was choking the life out of me like
an ever-tightening boa constrictor, I cried out to you for
help. You invited me to your home. Once inside, I let out
a primal scream of pain.

Despite this, you did not turn away. Even to this day, I
don’t know if I could be as brave as you were. But you
saw hope where I saw none. You took me under your
wing when institutionalizing myself seemed like my only
option. It still astounds me, your ability to reach me, to
touch my heart, and calm my nerves. You were the angel
who picked me up from a pit of despair & wrapped me in
your warm embrace. Yes, you were a hugger. I’m
becoming one.

You also were practical. You helped me conduct an
on-line search for a psychiatrist. I was afraid of psychiatry.
You walked me into new territory. You made release from
suffering the paramount priority.

So, at the time of an overwhelming bring-me-to-my knees
need, I found a guide, an advocate, and a nurturing
mother figure, offering me tea or coffee, sometimes a
snack.

You had navigated your own trauma with the tools of our
program, rolfing, a holistic chiropractor, & years of study &
inquiry. And although you had been a therapist,
everything you offered me. . .time, attention, suggestions,
questions, deep listening, & wisdom stories. . .was freely
given.

You lavished me with small gifts. . .a mug, a fairy figurine,
flowers from your garden. It was hard to make sense of
this at the time, unfamiliar as I was with this kind of
generosity. Now I know it was love. And now, Dee, my
energetic blocks to love are dissolving and I feel your
lovingkindness more deeply than when you were here in
physical form.

You introduced me to new ideas that could be tried on for
size, like spirit guides and channeling. I imagine you’re
pleased watching my developing relationship with these
energies.

And during our weekly visits, I watched you grow and
change, changes reflected in your home and garden.
Your house became more orderly, your garden more
beautiful. You modeled embracing growth and change,
even under challenging circumstances.

Thank you for the gift of sponsorship. I imagine your
smile, seeing that I continue to sponsor and aspire to
honor your legacy. Thank you for friendship. I know you
see my friendship bandwidth expanding and deepening.
Prerequisites for healing are safety and nurture. You
provided both. You are one through whom angelic forces
poured to help me. I stand in awe of this mysterious
grace.

Thank you, Dee, for the lasting gifts of kindness,
acceptance, faith, hope, & love that you transmitted to me.
Thank you for the life I have today. You were the right
person at the right time. I follow in your footsteps by
sponsoring others, offering a weekly guided meditation,
continuing to heal from trauma, trusting life to fulfill its
purpose in me, finding joy in nature, & celebrating with
color.

You are not gone. Your legacy is rich and strong. You
are with me always. Your healing energy continues to
flow. And piecy, stick-up hair will always remind me of
you.

Posted on behalf of Robbie Burt:

I remember walking into her house on Holly and noticing all the beautiful colors in her artwork, textures rich in variation from Batiks of a fiery Redheaded woman, soft woven wall hangings, and smooth wooden statues. The art work seemed to emanate life from their creators. She loved sharing about who made them and when.
Small plants adorned every free inch of space on the window tables. A soft cozy chair awaited me in the sunroom. On a nice day we would sit under the pergola off the back porch sipping good coffee and lots of creamer.
Her little stick figures often made me smile as she spoke of new ways to view my relationships and things I could ponder to see if they could be useful. I never felt pushed or criticized, only gently nudged to explore more awareness and possibilities. Sometimes time would pass so quickly and I would find myself not wanting to leave. Her nurturing and loving kindness were healing and gentle. She really did have a gift for accepting people just where they are.
We shared a love for flowers and would often tour the garden planning new ideas for coming seasons. She delighted in watching thing grow, and I believe that included me.
I remember keys on the table at York Street, that Genelle had placed so all would know that was Dee’s spot, and I would be drawn quickly to sit next to her. I would admire her pretty nail color as she tapped them on the table, always adorned with beautiful rings that she loved. She used to tell me in her next life she would come back and be the person who got to name all the colors of nail polish and we would laugh.
I cherish the necklace she gave me when we were going through things at her home to get her ready to move into assisted living. She was easily able to let things go if they made someone else happy. She was generous and compassionate.
Her dog Molly would howl at passersby and she would shout out her “Molly, Molly, Molly!!!” and then wait until she was finished howling, and Molly did that in her own time. Later that would mean she had to say goodbye to her beloved dog, as the assisted living facility could not accommodate such unruliness. That was a sad time for Dee, but she always looked on the bright side and was glad Molly found a good family to live with.
Many of us wanted Dee’s transition to leaving her home and so many of her freedoms to be as painless as possible. We made sure her apartment was a microcosm of her home, filed with her favorite possessions.
Several of us brought consistent AA meetings to her when she first arrived to help her adjust. She delighted in the messages we all shared and the friendships she had created. It was such a testament to the gifts of the AA program and people she had surrounded herself with. We don’t shoot our wounded, and we support and care for each other. In her case it was to the end of her life, as best as we could.
Her presence at York Street had always been inspiring for so many of us and it was an honor to give back to her where we could. She so looked forward to getting out and going to meetings that rejuvenated her and sustained her ability to accept what was happening to her in her later years. Many volunteered to make that happen, but one best friend in particular, Genelle went way beyond the call.
Even as her memory began to fail her faith remained strong. She might not have known what she said 10 minutes ago, but she knew her spiritual principles as a tool for a happy life inside and out. Over her 41 years of sobriety, she shared her wisdom with countless numbers of us in the program. She lived the principles of integrity, honesty, compassion, forgiveness, acceptance and service. She was especially good at being completely present with you and helped many of us regain trust that someone cared about us often pointing out our wins over adversity.
She noticed young children delighting in themselves and always had words of encouragement. She consistently extended kindness wherever she found herself, knowing that was what had helped heal her.
She was one of the first people who verbalized something so significant to me that I will hold in my heart forever. When we would discuss our fears and relate our views about dying, she was clear and truthful. She was not afraid of dying, only afraid of living a life without purpose. Thank God she chose to be of service to so many of us who love and cherish her wisdom, nurturing, and faith. Her legacy remains her loving nature and her willingness to continue growing in awareness with humility and grace, no matter what she was given. She knew she was not alone and helped so many of us to realize that too.
She would remind me “Easy does it!” “It will all be ok!”, and “TRUST GOD WITH EVERYTHING…!!!!”
I will miss that beautiful smile. Those hands extended across the table in total unconditional loving, and her sweet, sweet hugs!
You live in my heart now, my beloved Dee.

Sophia was a beautiful dancer and unforgettably beautiful light to all around her. Her joyful energy and kindness were felt by everyone at dance. I will always remember the first time I taught Sophia and Isabelle in dance. They were doing a make up class in one of my Saturday classes and I remember being blown away by what incredible dancers they were at such a young age. I feel truly blessed to have the honor to teach Sophia in dance for many years. The beautiful energy she brought each time to class will remain a part of the studio always. We love her so much.
Love, Rachel

Sophia Chiuchiolo was undoubtedly one of the most influential people in my life and I love her. When I came to Holy Trinity in the first grade, I didn’t know anyone. It was a whole new place and I was scared. Then, I met Sophia and I knew I had chosen the right place to go to school. She was so kind and she became my best friend. We weren’t the kind of friends that needed to talk everyday, we could talk to one another whenever and still have the same connection we had before. Sophia made me who I am. She introduced me to books, tv shows, music, but her being herself influenced me the most. Sophia was my “concert buddy.” we went to so many concerts together and concerts will never be the same without her. Nothing will ever be the same without her. From art camp, where I broke my glasses IN HALF and we were both laughing for days because I had to tape them together, to sleepovers, one time at her old house we stayed up real late and I pretended to be asleep and started saying all this crazy stuff and I remember her laughing and laughing and laughing. I never told her that i was actually awake and that she had the greatest laugh. The kind of laugh that makes everyone want to laugh (I know that’s clique, but it’s true). She always made me laugh. From Isabel’s birthday parties to the Daddy Daughter Dances, to whenever we slept over at my house and I’d get out all the sheets and hair bands and we would make my room into a whole fort and sleep there on the floor laughing and talking with flashlights. Sophia’s favorite thing was to go out on my roof (sorry mom if your reading this but we were SAFE). We would sit out there and watch the sunrise or sunset and listen to Shawn Mendes or Taylor Swift. We didn’t need to talk. We were perfect as we were. Whenever I imagined graduation, I imagined both our moms asking us to get together and pose for a picture out on the courtyard with the tiger. I would straighten out her cap and she would straighten out mine, then we would put our arms around each other and get close and smile our biggest smilies because we made it. We finally graduated. It’s silly but I always thought she would be at my wedding and I would be at hers. Sophia Chiuchiolo was beautiful, more beautiful than she ever thought she was. She had one of those smiles that brought me at ease and made me want to smile. I miss her hugs more than anything. If you never got a hug from Sophia Chiuchiolo, you seriously missed out because you knew that she loved you just from that hug. I know I can never get another hug like the ones she gave. Sophia Chiuchiolo was my best friend for nine years. Nothing can ever change that and no one can ever take that away from us. She was the closest thing I had to sister. We grew up together and I thought we’d always be together. She met my family and she became my family. She was exordinary and I will never meet another person like her because there will only ever be one Sophia Chiuchiolo. Nine years wasn’t enough for me. I want more. I will always want more. I love Sophia so so much. I just want to thank her for the time she did give me because that time will always be so special to me. So for every concert, for every sleepover, for every birthday, for every dance, for every book, for every tear, for every smile, for every laugh, for every hug, for every “i love you”, for every dream, and for every memory, I am so grateful I got to meet Sophia because she was so amazing and kind and beautiful and every good word out there. And I miss her and I love her. So thank you Sophia. I love you and I miss you. Fly high my angel and know that you are loved and missed and remembered forevermore. Love, Miya Noelle Tanner

We are all still in disbelief over the news of Florent' passing. Florent was a kind, generous, polite, intelligent and loving family man with an infectious smile. Florent was always willing to help and had a large heart. He always had a twinkle in his eye whenever talking about his family and was a proud Papa. While we miss him dearly and have endured a terrible loss, our hearts are broken for the family especially his beautiful little ones.
Thank you Florent for being a wonderful person. Missing you so much..

I was so glad to have met Ms.D...as my son and I called her. She was one of the only parents I bonded with when our sons played basketball together. She later became his coach. We both shared the love of sports, our boys, and similar stances on life. I know she was a woman of faith as she would tell my son and I that we were on her prayer list for our drive or flights back home to NC. Ms. D was very kind and will truly be missed. I pray that her family finds comfort and healing during these times.

Dear Florent,

There's never a day that you don't have a smile on your face whenever I would see you in LA. You're such a nice person and very pleasant to work with. You're always ready to help whenever I would ask you questions about B-One. You're also very knowledgeable and always ready to share your knowlege with us.

We miss you a lot here. I pray that you're with our Lord now, and we have you interceding on our behalf from where you are.

My sincerest condolences to your family, especially to your wife and your two beautiful children.
-Rey Macatula

Conversations with Florent always started and ended with big smiles. All the water cooler conversations from an introduction to the French sport of pétanque to discussing his favorite places to visit will be cherished. Even on the most challenging days he would have this disarming smile behind which was a quiet confidence from a wealth of knowledge he carried with him to throw ideas at any situation the team needed his help with.

He may have gone too soon, but his memories will keep us company - his kind nature, his smile, his unique sense of humor. He was a personification of a word he once told me about - 'Joie de vivre'. I ve taken many a leaf out of Florent s example and am privileged he shared a few moments with me.

My deepest condolences to his family and to every one of us who will miss his calming cheerful presence.

Sophia and Isabel were the first girls I became friends with when I moved to Florida, and they welcomed me with open arms. During our countless play dates, Sophia was always ready for whatever adventure we had planned, whether it be roller skating at Galaxy, going to Brevard Zoo, or a beach trip, she was always excited to be one of the “big girls”! Sophia was easy to please, taking joy out of the little things such as her new “combat boots”... she was so proud of those boots when she got them! I will always remember Sophia’s sweet demeanor and bubbly personality, she is dearly missed by all. My thoughts, prayers, and love are with you all in this time.
Brooke Boddy

We have so many memories of dear Sophia from the time she was born and forward. She loved books and initially liked to have stories read to her especially before bed. As she grew, she was always reading books herself and even retreading her favorites! She was curious and adventuresome. Her interests were broad...from dance to fashion to cheer. We have many memories of spending time at Longboat Key every April...swimming, playing on the beach, playing ping pong and shopping and eating at St. Armand’s Circle. Vacations in NH saw her horseback riding at Castle in the Clouds, zip lining at Gunstock, staying at the cottage at Alton Bay and kayaking in Lake Winnepesaukee. Sophia also liked to cook, especially stuffed shells. She was curious about her Irish relatives and as we walked on the beach, she would pepper me with questions about the “cousins.” We miss her dearly and hold close our fond memories of Soso. Love, Bapa and Grammy

At Peace

Forever & 3

Sophia's joyful giggle and creative gifts are special to everyone who knew her. Thank you for sharing her precious heartbeat and all of the picture memories. Our love, thoughts and support are with you always...Dan, Shannon, Calvin, Sarah, Cydnee & Camryn

What a joy and blessing it was to see Sophia grow to be such a beautiful young lady. I'll forever carry her precious sweet smile in my heart.
Jenny Rider

Alyssa,
Thank You So much for making this Tribute for my brother.
I am Charles J. Stecker Jr. I held my brother in my arm as he took his last breaths.

I’ll always remember how Sophia’s smile lit of the stage. Miss Lin

Au revoir Florent

J'avais tellement hâte de te revoir sur Paris pour que tu me racontes tes aventures aux US.
Ton départ est un choc tant j'ai apprécié faire ce bout de chemin de vie professionnelle et amicale avec toi.
J'ai aimé discuter avec toi de tout de rien, de nos projets respectifs à nos pauses café, avec une pinte de bière, autour d'un de nos déjeuners aveyronnais.

Toutes mes pensées vont à ta famille et à tes proches.

Reste cette belle personne que où que tu sois maintenant.
Jérémie

Russ is a wonderful person who will be deeply missed. Who is going to help the technology challenged people now. I have known Russ and Holly since Couch appliance days. Both of them have been there for me and I really miss Russ. I have continued txt him every month to just say Hi and make sure that they both were ok. He is very special and I know Holly and the kids are going to miss him alot. What a wonderful person

dionne {dee}

It was May, 1992. I had just finished medical school, and Courtney and I had known each other almost 6 months. Courtney had business with CRC in Paris, and he invited me to join him after his meetings. Courtney, of course, bought me the ticket and planned the entire trip. Courtney’s vast knowledge of the history, geography, and sites as well as a superior grasp of the airline and hotel industries led to always amazing trips on a budget, and this first big trip that we took together was no different. He had chosen a boutique hotel (the Phenix hotel – he of course kept a card from the place) just 1 block from the Arc de Triomphe. We then headed by train to the Loire Valley to Blois (I recall the best fondue ever there), where we rented bicycles. We rode from castle to castle – Chambord, Cheverny, and more – stopping by the side of the road to eat fresh baked baguettes with cheese and pate (and occasionally a little red wine). I can still picture the art class of school children with their palettes and easels in the courtyard of Cheverny. We then headed to Arcachon, a beach town on the Atlantic coast, where we played on large sand dunes (Great Dune of Pyla). I trying jumping off one, only to do a head plant in the sand. Courtney suffered with the sand that fell from my hair and ears for several days after that but never complained. Courtney, of course, sniffed out the WWII bunkers on the edges of the beach. Next, we took the train to a stop seemingly in the middle of nowhere. I was worried that we had taken a wrong turn somewhere. Courtney reassured me that we needed to walk a half-mile and the town would be there. As we trekked along the country road, a hill rose up in front of us, and the medieval town of St. Ẻmilion (where we are in the photo above) emerged. We stayed in a quaint room overlooking the lit courtyard and the church. The restaurant in the inn was fabulous. They kept bringing out cheese, which I gobbled down with gluttonous pleasure. Courtney had such a smile on his face when he finally let me know that they were going to just keep bringing me cheese until I said stop. He got such a kick out of my innocent uncouth behavior and never made me feel uncomfortable. We then toured the wineries. Courtney communicated so well in French, but he stumped them when trying to ask why the wine had a certain “chalky” flavor (which, once one winery understood what he was saying, he learned quickly never to say that again). We made our way to Bordeaux with plans for a train ride in the morning to catch our early afternoon flight back to Washington, D.C. Carefree and back in Paris, we decided to stop at some fromageries for gifts on the way to the airport. Of course, when we arrived to the airport, we were much too late to catch an international flight. To me, this was the moment that solidified our compatibility - missing an international flight would be the end of many a new relationship. But for us - we shrugged our shoulders and celebrated that we would have yet another day in Paris. Courtney, of course, was able to re-book a flight for the next day at a nominal fee. We returned to the Phenix hotel, bought several liquor-filled chocolates, and wandered along the Seine, enjoying our bonus night in the City of Love. The next day, we returned to the US where Courtney’s folks were picking us up at the airport. Courtney, of course, whisked through security. I, on the other hand, fumbled through explaining how he lived in Seattle, I lived in NY, he arrived in Paris several days before me, and so on. Subsequently, my bags were searched, uncovering all my undeclared cheeses that we had purchased that day before. Courtney’s folks were so confused why I was not coming out of security, but I finally emerged, and we all had a good laugh. Fortunately, immigration let me keep the cheese.

Memories of a great friend and the best mom ever.

May the long time sun
Shine up on you,
All love surround you,
And the pure light within you
Guide your way on.

Kundalini Yoga farewell blessing submitted by Suzanne

Russ is and was an awesome and welcoming man. I am thankful that he had his hand is raising such a beautiful person (my newest sister). She's a pretty awesome reflection of your strength and love for family! You will be truly missed. Until next time, Cheers!

Russ and I met when I was 12 and he was 13. I had just moved to Plattsburgh from Dannemora. A girlfriend and I were walking on Oak Street and literally ran into Russ and his friend Lenny. We chatted and moved on. From that day, he was everywhere - we'd meet at the Crystal restaurant with the other teens who congregated there to smoke, eat french fries, and talk. He was at the skating rink behind PHS the first time I went and soon became one of my favorite skating partners. Then there was a day we spent at the City Beach just chatting and swimming. Well, we fell asleep. Imagine our favorite redhead burned to a crisp! He was beet red pretty much all over. And I wasn't in much better shape. We teased each other about our stupidity for years. One of my most treasured memories was receiving letters from Viet Nam - in one particular letter, he was describing a very hot night when all the sailors were sleeping on the deck trying to stay cool. He described it all so vividly, even the "bombs literally bursting in air". I cried. And it really made that horrendous war real to me. We had many, many good times over the years. He was always kind, had a great sense of humor, and our only conflicts rose when our politics recently differed – and differed strongly! Our friendship even got us through that time. And, even though our paths eventually went our separate ways, we always managed to re-connect. Russ was and will always remain of my dearest friends. Rest well, my friend.
Merle "Fran" Kimbell Kelly

For those that knew Courtney this picture captures his "Look" which is one where he is getting ready to tell a story or explain something of interest to his nephews. One unique story comes to mind of Courtney with his 2 nephews... Donna was busy with graduate school and i had an evening appointment so Courtney came up to take them to dinner at Chucky Cheese... now i really miss Courtney because i can not so justice to the way he would tell this but i will try... The ordered their pizza's Mike got plain cheese and AJ would have the pepperoni sausage and played a few games... then it was time to sit and wait for the pizzas to come to the booth. Well they pizza was delivered and no sooner did the waiter walk away Mike began to wail in shear terror while sitting across from Courtney AJ just dug in and began to eat his like this was normal behavior. Courtney is trying to calm Mike and figure what in the world is going on... finally he asks AJ because nothing is working and AJ looks up and says" Its ok Uncle Court he's just scared of the giant rat "The chucky cheese mascot" and puts his head down and starts to eat.... That night i got home and Court says " hey Case next time warn me about the Rat and Mike" and proceeded to tell the story- I sure do miss him❤

Thank you for all the happy memories, Jon. I will always cherish those. May you rest in peace.

https://youtu.be/WmwcaP2wwEg

Dearest Jon,
My heart will always have room for you. Your being will remain an inspiration to me as it did since you were born and will forever be all through my lifetime. I would say more, but there are not enough words. Have peace, Jon. You will be missed.
With love,
Dad

Russ and I grew up together in Plattsburgh, same neighborhood, same schools. I hadn’t run into to Russ for a year or so but was surprised to find him in my company at boot camp. Having a long time friend at boot camp was a bonus. My story is from high school in Mr. Sponable’s auto shop. Russ and I were watching a classmate “Roswell” sawing a ten foot length of pipe secured in a vise. The other end of the pipe was bobbing up and down with each stroke of the hack saw. The end that was bobbing was whacking an armature growler that wasn’t turned on, well that was to much for Russ and I, let’s see if we can magnetize the hack saw!! Well we turned it on and stepped back just in time to see a bright blue flash and a bang, as well as Roswell laying on the floor. “I think we killed him Russ” but alas she got up and dusted himself off. The hack saw blade had a big burn mark but all else was fine, we never let on what had happened. Going to miss our FB chats Rusty, proud to have been a part of your life.
Tom Lavery

As the daughter of this gun-loving Vietnam Vet, you'd think he'd be the guy who was cleaning guns everytime I brought a guy home. He wasn't. I did get a kick out of telling them his battle history just as we pulled into the driveway though.

Anywho....this story is more about how dad had "the talk" with me as a teenager. He simply asked, "remember in the movie When Harry Met Sally when they are driving to NY together?" Yeah dad, I remember. He advised, "listen again to the part where men and women can't be just friends."

Here's the clip for those who need a refresher =)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEV_pQIf3Og

Florent,

Je n'ai pas trouvé d'autres moyens d'exprimer mon chagrin à travers ce petit poème (FLORENT).
Je vois déjà ton sourire à la lecture de celui-ci...
Je l'ai écrit d'un seul jet, pour être en parfaite synchronisation avec toi.
C'est à dire avec la brutalité de l’événement.


F in de journée, deux hommes sortent d'un immeuble
L 'un prend à droite, le second le regarde
O ù vas-tu comme ça ? s'exclame le second
R ue Cammartin, répond le premier
E h bien ! tu te trompes de chemin rétorque le second
N 'oublie pas que je ne connais pas le quartier se défend le premier
T u devrais me demander mon jeune ami. Je vais t'accompagner, suis moi ! réplique le second




Grâce à nos dernières conversations, le timbre de ta voix résonne encore en moi...

L'écriture passe, la musique succède :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-F_LfbdK0PM


Ton fidèle ami, Olivier D.

Une nouvelle choquante. Nous sommes terriblement attristés. Nous pensons à vous, Émilie et Lyssana.

Florent was such a wonderful ray of sunshine. Every morning, without hesitation, he’d come in and before he sat down “good morning!” and if I was on a call, I’d get the “good morning!” quietly, with a wave, along with his bright and friendly smile. He was smart, helpful, humble and funny. He always made you feel comfortable and you could ask him any question. The week before his passing, he spoke to me about his family. You could feel his happiness. You can tell how much love he had for them in his voice (any time he spoke about them).

With deepest sympathy, may God give Emilie, the little ones and his loved ones strength and courage.

I haven’t showed this picture to Joey yet because he’s still devastated, but I thought I should share it with all of you. This photo was taken on May 28th 2020 at Lynn CT. During those final few months, Jon was so happy and at peace. Him and Joey would play Play station 4 games for hours including poker. I would wake up out of my sleep at 2:00 am and still would see Jon and Joey playing the game, and laughing in the living room. If they weren’t in the living room, they were in the backyard laughing, playing poker, and listening to music. Jon was very compassionate. When my brother passed he made me his special Mac and Cheese dinner which I always enjoyed. And when I was sick because of morning sickness he would buy me ginger, lunch, and even at times monitor certain foods I ate. I think he was more excited about a new baby then I was. He enjoyed cooking and cooked for us a lot. Jon was a great cook, and I enjoyed his food. Our last day at Lynn CT Jon brought us all dinner and we all bonded together and shared stories. He helped us put our bags in the car and gave us both a big hug. We told him we would see him again, and bring the new baby by to see him. A few months after we found out he passed and it was devastating to hear. My condolences to the family and I will continue to pray for you all and for Jon.
-Mia

May 28 2020 Jon and Joey

Lorsque j'ai appris la terrible nouvelle je n'ai pas réussi à y croire et je n'y arrive toujours pas...
Florent,
Nous avons travaillé ensemble pendant 2 ans et demi, ton bureau faisait face au mien. Pendant ces années de collaboration je ne t'ai jamais vu de mauvaise humeur, tu gardais toujours ce même sourire communicatif.
Tu m'a appris beaucoup et a fait preuve d'une grande patience et d'une générosité sans faille à mon égard. Je t'en remercie. Ce que je garde de ces quelques années ou j'ai eu la chance de te côtoyer ce sont les pauses café ou nos sujets de conversations allaient de la dernière série à la mode aux dernières comptines pour bébé qui nous restent dans la tête toute la journée. Je garde en mémoire aussi les déjeuners du vendredi midi ainsi que les quelques pintes de bières consommées après le travail avec la " bande des consultants". Je ressens une profonde tristesse que tu ne sois plus de ce monde. J'espere que tu es en paix.
Mes plus sincères condoléances à toute ta famille, en particulier à tes parents, ta femme ainsi que tes enfants. Je vous souhaite de trouver le courage de surmonter cette terrible épreuve.
Amandine Boulay

J'ai eu la chance de travailler avec Florent à Paris et à Los Angeles
Un superbe collègue plein d'energie positive
On ne t'oubliera jamais
Toutes mes pensées à ta belle famille

Thinking about you the last few days and speaking with those that knew you, the memories are of that famous smile, positivity and twinkle in your eye. We were lucky to have known you.

Tony with your kind heart and generous spirit you were such a force of life. We shared many happy times with you that we will always treasure. At Christmas, we will pause to remember the wonderland you created and so happily shared with the young and old. Rest in peace, but know you have touched the hearts of many.
With love,
Louise and Bob Starr

To know you was to know that whimsy and joy are not things to be left behind in our youth but instead the foundation on what beautiful lives are built upon. Our family wants to honor you with a dance. So with a spring on our step and light in our hearts we are dancing to this classic tune as we celebrate your legacy and tremendous spirit. After a lifetime of lighting up the lives of those around you, it is now your time to light up the sky above us.
Rest in joy
Rest in whimsy
Rest in love

Always - Eva , Rich & Casper

I had the opportunity to work with Florent for a very brief period of time. He was a very very positive person and always had a smile on his face. He was funny and a very nice person. It is really unfortunate that we have lost such a wonderful person so early in his life. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.

A Florent,
J'ai eu la chance de travailler avec toi pendant des années. On a eu des moments difficiles mais tu les rendais facile et il suffit de lire tous les messages déposés ici pour comprendre pourquoi.
C'est grâce à tout cela qu'on s'appréciait aussi en dehors du travail.
J'essaierai de garder en mémoire tous ces moments et tu vois je t'écris directement parce que moi non plus je ne veux pas y croire.
Je pense à ta famille.
Amitiés, à la vie.
Nicolas P.

Florent était positif, bienveillant, souriant, attentif, toujours de bonne humeur même dans les situations difficiles et c'était un collègue avec lequel on avait envie de travailler, de discuter, de partager. Il va beaucoup manquer à nos équipes.
Nous avions échangé sur nos expériences américaines et beaucoup rit des aléas de l'adaptation.
J'ai du mal à croire qu'il soit parti.
Je pense à sa famille, lui présente mes plus sincères condoléances dans ces moments si douloureux.
Mes pensées et mes prières sont avec eux, en espérant que le temps allège leurs souffrances.

Pitto & family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
May Jon's fond memories bring you comfort at this difficult time.
Sending our deepest condolences,
Ed, Luz, Melissa & Melvin

J'ai rencontre Florent pour la premiere a Paris chez un client quelques mois apres avoir rejoint BISAM. Je n'etais pas tres a l'aise mais il m'a tout de suite mis en confiance. Il etait plein de bienveillance. Nous avions demenage a Los Angeles le meme jour (la photo que j'ai ajoute a ete prise ce jour la). Pendant 2 ans a Los Angeles, j'ai appris a mieux connaitre Florent. Il etait d'une extreme gentillesse et toujours de bonne humeur. C'etait vraiment agreable de travailler avec lui. Il va nous manquer. Je presente mes très sincères condoléances a la famille.

Jon, the 80's rock!

We met in college and our lives overlapped over the course of 20+ years. You're already missed, my friend.

Being Jon's Tita, I have happy fond memories of taking care of him back in Manila, Philippines. My sisters and I were like baby sitters to him and his other cousins. He was a little bit hyper and always had a cute smile! When he visited us in Chicago later in his life in 2011, we truly enjoyed his company, filled with lots of cooking and outdoor barbecue, as well as seeing him play basketball and Monopoly with our two sons. Jon, we will miss you so much, Rest In Peace and we will always cherish our memories with you. Love you. Tita Meanne, Tito Sotero, Anton and Alex I dedicate this beautiful song to to you. I loved the 80's too.

Jon, me, Rishi and Farrel at my wedding, 20 years into our friendship

Our friendship started in 4th grade, where he lived 1 block away from me in Rockaway, NJ. We hung out every single day, playing basketball, football, backyard baseball, tennis, badminton... every sport. When it was time to go inside, we played video games: 10-yard Fight, Bulls vs. Lakers, Mike Tyson's Punchout... every game. We played basketball together on the Morris Hills Knights and eventually drifted apart when we went to college. No wait, we both went to Rutgers, were in the same fraternity, and continued our great friendship. After college, we lived together for a while, still playing video games but also picking up a serious chess (and Domino's Pizza) habit. As we both moved around the country (and world), we remained close friends. He was a groomsman in my wedding, and my wife loved him from day 1. He loved all music, from Hall & Oates to The White Stripes to Dan The Automator, and was our resident DJ.Jon was a loving, passionate, gentle, all-around amazing person. I miss you dearly, Jon. -Andrew

When I first met Florent I felt a special kinship. He was such a positive guy, and over time I had begun to think of him as the “Happy Frenchman” in my mind. No matter what was going on, or how busy he was, he always started meetings with a cheery “Good Morning!” or my personal favorite of “Happy Friday!”.
In short, he made the world a better place.
I will miss learning from him (he knew so much!), chatting about racing, and hearing about his adventures. He was a great mentor and will truly be missed.
Words are insufficient to express my deepest condolences for his family during this heartbreaking time. I wish you all strength and comfort and I believe God and Florent are with you all.

I’ll never forget our $2,000 basketball horse game. I’ll be making my collection once I join you in the sky…But I’m sure you will just say “double or nothing” haha, Or just bring out the poker chips. Good times Cuzo. You will be missed.
-Paul

earlier link does not work so re pasting a song link here
Though this one is not enough, there are many other songs that we listened to that I will always have a good vibe to.
Thanks again, much love Jon. Rest in peace.
-Adrian

Jon not only loved music, but he shared music with people. He also helped me learn to play the guitar. In continuing the music sharing tradition, here is the soundtrack including some classic lounge hits from one of his favorite movies.

Jon you’re gone way too soon but not forgotten. Miss you brother. -Greg Baxter

I can never forget spending a whole morning playing golf with Jon at Rutgers many, many years ago. He was a golf marshall back then. I have forgotten who finally won our duel and who treated who to lunch. But i will forever cherish those moments. Such precious memories. Rest in eternal peace, Jon.
-Tito Calvin

A tribute to the most effervescent personality we have ever come across and the rock star business consultant we all wanted to be..

Jon was always up for an adventure or a good time. Jon was caring, thoughtful and my son still sleeps nightly with a stuffed animal he got him for his 1st birthday. Heaven got a good one with Jon. Thank you for all the memories throughout the years. -Lou

A sweet and thoughtful funcle! Had so much fun with you just a week before you left us. I miss you already, Uncle Jon. I still play with the toy xylophone and rubber ducky you gave to me. Thanks for everything. I know you are dancing in paradise now.

Love you,
Leila

One of Jon's recommended movies about guys helping a friend. "Swingers" with actors Vince Vaughn and Jon Favreau. Jon recommended to me when I visited the east coast back in late 90's or early 2000. Movie really spread well by word of mouth and is a special movie to me. "You're so money and you don't even know it."
Thanks Jon.
Adrian

Courtney was such a vibrant, loving soul, even during his time of illness, that it is really hard to imagine him no longer with us. We met Courtney at the Rocking Horse Inn in Taos New Mexico, in 1992. He and Amina were there on a ski trip. We arranged to meet while on a Southwest trip Carl and I took with Ethan during the year I took off for medical school after Ethan was born. . Others in our medical school class had already met Courtney, and we had heard how smitten they were with each other. We had the same experience as others, seeing instantly how they were perfect for each other and how, right away, Courtney felt like a lifelong friend. They both were lovers of the outdoors, adventure, and travel. Amina’s training and this love of travel eventually took them to Australia, where, of course, very romantically, they got engaged at the stroke of midnight of the new millennium. We had the good fortune to attend their wedding in Seattle in 2001. Ethan, then 10, hesitated not one second in getting right into Courtney’s car to be wisked away the fun kid things happening while adults attended a pre-wedding festivities. We were then blessed that Amina chose Emory for her fellowship, putting us in close enough proximity for them to come to us for a mountain retreat, and us to visit them for a city fix. Our friendship to continued to grow . It was Courtney who showed me the Kingfishers that live on our river, and I think of him every time I see one while kayaking. It was during one of his visits with the kids, that we discovered that Ethan had gone out on a very unauthorized spin in the family car at age 14. Courtney was an anchor for us as we dealt with this, never seeming judgmental, just supportive. This photo is from our trip with Amina and Courtney to Key West January 2019. There, Courtney, though weakened by his condition, was an inspiration. He and Amina dealt with it all and accepted it as he tried to live life to the fullest within the level of his abilities. If that meant sitting on the porch and enjoying the incredible view and entertaining us with lively conversation, he seemed to appreciate every minute. We enjoyed being to toured on foot and by car through a city he knew well from years of family vacations. We got to see him one last time just over a year ago when they stopped on the way to their yearly trip to a family camping retreat in Vermont, still with much joy, enthusiasm, and love for his family. When Covid hit, it dawned on me what life would be like for him, not getting to be around people, so I called him and enjoyed the stories of his family he loved so much and all that they were up to, which we all know was his unwavering top priority. What we have now are amazing memories of a great friend, a wonderful husband, the most enthusiastic devoted dad we can imagine. We will all miss him greatly.

Une pensée très forte pour cette jolie petite famille qui avait agrandi notre cercle des familles françaises de Lila.
Cette annonce nous brise le coeur.
Nous pensons très fort à toi, Emilie, à ta petite Lyssana qui manque à ses copains de CP et à ton petit loulou.
Nous t'envoyons nos prières les plus précieuses, Florent, pour que tu reposes en paix.

Anne-Laure et Pascal
Raphaël, Eva et Louise

Florent will be truly missed! He has left footprints on the hearts of many of his teammates. He was a wonderful genuinely kind soul, always willing to lend a helping hand with anything he could and always had a smile for everyone to brighten our day. I pray that God may give strength to his family and loved ones during this painful time. Please accept my deepest sympathy on the loss of a wonderful husband, father, brother, son and friend.

Edna Rosal

I have no words to describe how shocked I am to read that terrible news... I did not work closely with Florent and despite that, he still stopped by my desk when he was at the office to say hi and take some news. He was always positive, calm and manged to spread good vibes around him.

I'll always remember his last day at the BISAM Paris office, when he stopped to my desk just to say goodbye and we finally ended up discussing for 30 mins where I could see how excited he was to start this new chapter in the U.S.

For sure he will be missed by everyone who had the chance to meet him. My sincere condolences to his family.

Jean-Michel

What an incredible soul Florent was. I still can’t believe that he is gone. His pleasing personality, exceptional work ethic and an ever-supportive attitude had got him many admirers at the workplace. There was a lot to be learnt from him. I am truly honored and blessed to have known him as a friend and colleague. I have spent one the best phase of my working life with him. I am going to cherish all the good times spent together from the Friday lunch time conversations at farmers market, to sharing forthcoming travel schedules and the Netflix recommendations and the famous conspiracy theories in the world. I was lucky to be a part of his life when Ewen was born last year.
I shared a strong emotional bond with him. He will forever remain in my heart.
My deepest condolences are with his family. May God give Emilie and the kids enough strength to bear this irreparable loss.

Sometimes incidents happen which makes one think about existence of that super power! This is no less than one such unfortunate incident.
Getting to know Florent and his family through BISAM family gatherings was one of the best things that happened while I was in LA. The simplicity and the perfect smiles didn’t take much time to know Florent, Emilie the kids at a personal level. It breaks my heart every-time a little bit more when I think that Florent is not around us anymore.
For Emilie and the kids, I just pray that they get the strength to get through this difficult time. I do wish I was somewhere closer to be able to emotionally support them in this time of immense pain.
Florent will always be missed deeply and will be part of wonderful memories I built when I was in LA.

My deepest sympathies and lots of love to the wonderful family he left behind.

Rashmi

J'ai eu la chance de croiser Florent dans les locaux de BISAM Paris et à chaque fois on sentait cette gentillesse en lui.
Ce qu'il a apporté par sa gentillesse et son professionnalisme va beaucoup nous manquer.
J'ai une pensée pour sa femme Emilie , ses enfants et sa famille dans ces moments difficiles.
Mes sincères condoléances

Olivier Gaudefroy.

Florent touched so many people with his smile and endless positivity and he will be dearly missed. My heart is breaking for Florent's wife and children and all his family and friends who will no longer get to see Florent's smile. To Emilie and the children, I hope you find some comfort in the outpuring of love amongst this tradegy. My deepest sympathies.

This captured a moment in 1985 that really reflects the face of laughter and humor that Courtney spirit would bring to any time you spent with him. Reflects his sparkle and impish humor he could bring to any moment and gathering.

This picture was taken in Thailand a few months before I met Courtney, but Courtney spoke of this trip so vividly that I feel I can do the tale justice. The expedition to Thailand was Courtney’s first big trip outside North America and certainly opened his eyes to global travel. He and his friend, Dan McBride, acted as couriers for packages to Asia in exchange for $100 business class tickets to Thailand. With all his travel belongings in a small backpack, he and Dan journeyed around Thailand, meeting travelers from all over the world. This photo was taken in Phuket. Dan and Courtney had met some European travelers, and the four of them rented small motorcycles to ride along the seaside roads. I believe some sort of animal jumped out and Courtney swerved, resulting in a ride down an embankment that wrecked the motorcycle and caused a large gash to his left thigh. The photo shows the mangled front wheel as well as the large bandage on the sutured laceration. You can see by the smile on Courtney’s face that it was all worth it! When I met Courtney on New Year’s Eve 1991-2, Courtney had brought his photos to Dan and Maya’s house, and we stayed up late looking at the pictures as he told me the stories of his amazing trip. Later, when I had visited Courtney’s folk’s home in Arlington, I noticed a handwritten note by Courtney posted on the refrigerator. “Mom was right about motorcycles – Courtney.”

Tom was a man of many words. We met in 2012 at Art Toronto and became friends once we got past the initial stare down and interview. He was a great supporter of young Canadian artists and his visits to the gallery were always memorable. I appreciated his intelligence, frankness and his sense of humour. Tom always remembered to ask how my family and my dog were doing. Only days prior to his passing we spoke on the phone about women in the workplace, education as the solution to all our problems and the reality of being a teacher. He spoke passionately and even called me back to elaborate on our discussion. He eluded to dying in our conversation and concluded by saying, “I am not going to live forever you know Nik.” I replied, "oh stop, you have a ways to go", little did we know.

Forever grateful for Tom's friendship and support.
R.I.P. Tom, you will be missed. Our condolences to his family and friends.

I posted my last message on 09/07/2020 at 12:42 pm easter

I really miss you now that the democrats have become communist and do not care about their voters. Donald Trump is president and really has done a good job, he cares about Americans and the Democrats do not, even mom agrees. I think when Trump wins his second term we are facing a new civil war, I wish you and Jerry were here to help. I really could use your wisdom right now

It has been 5 months since beloved Dayton has been unexpectedly taken from us.

Rattan & Doris Bhatia

Doris and I had only a few, and far between, occasions to meet with Courtney.The times we remember the most include his wedding, Amina’s Fellowship graduation at Emory hospital in Atlanta, and the Ellis family’s annual ‘stop over’ visits with us during their Christmas holidays in Vermont. Each time during these visits we discovered a new specific aspect of his personality that revealed him as an all-round family loving and friendly individual, as well as an efficient manager and organiser.
Our first ‘official’ encounter with Courtney was at the wedding ceremony when I had the honour and pleasure of walking my niece, Amina, down the Isle towards the impatiently waiting young and handsome ‘boy’. Both looked happy and loving at the prospect of tying the knot.
Amina and Courtney came from different social backgrounds- Amina a daughter of an Indian immigrant father and American mother, and a medical degree, while Courtney a100 percent American and, at that time, a successful professional in the private sector. This divergence must have required substantial adjustment on the part of both in settling as a married couple. As their life history shows, they fully well made that adjustment. I believe that during his bachelor days Courtney must have come across the economic concepts of ‘comparative advantage’ and ‘division of labour’ that say that interacting entities (countries, companies, partnerships etc.) will mutually gain the most if each party concentrated on pursuits where it has comparative advantage in relation to its partner. The truth of this axiom is evident in the case of the Ellis family. While Amina concentrated on being a pediatric surgeon, Courtney chose to stay at home to raise the new-borns through to their teens. Result: Amina has the reputation of being an excellent surgeon and Courtney could take pride in the way he raised and guided the three infants to grow to become ‘model’ children whose love and admiration for him are always on display. Additionally, Courtney used his managerial and organisational capacities to actively help Amina in her quest to seek and achieve her ambitions as a surgeon. He was often the spokesperson for Amina, and he performed that role meticulously well.
Personally, I was touched by his two observations he made to me- one at the very early time after their marriage when Amina and he used to come to Arlington often to meet his parents, and another only last month when I called their Atlanta home to congratulate Nathaniel on his graduation. On the first occasion he remarked that when he thought of Amina’s family, he felt that Doris and I were the ones that came to his mind the most. On the second occasion, he told me that their children had appreciated reading the little notes that, in response to Amina’s request, I had prepared for “My Story” site and wondered why we had not been an active part of their social life. Courtney added that he shared the same sentiments but blamed it on the distances that separated us.

Tom’s obituary has been submitted to The Sacramento Bee. It has been requested to run in the e-Edition and legacy.com on 9/19/20.

This photo was taken in Brian Head, Utah, on our journey from Albuquerque to San Francisco. Our work visas for Australia were in limbo, so we made our way to our port of departure by way of a stunning drive from Albuquerque to Las Cruces (to visit our dear friend, Reuben), Silver City, the Petrified Forest, (AZ), North Rim of the Grand Canyon, Brian Head, Tahoe, and finally San Francisco. Poor as church mice, we filled our trunk with a Costco shop and camped at National Forests along the way. At each stop, we mountain biked gorgeous single track trails, swam in canyons, and enjoyed wild flowers in the desert that were blooming after a long hiatus at the end of a La Nina year. We had arrived at the Brian Head camp late at night. Readying ourselves for sleep, we noted how difficult it was to blow up the over sized air mattress we had brought. In the morning, we woke to see we had snow outside our tent (it was July) and realized we were at 9800 feet altitude or so, explaining our difficulties with the mattress the night before. The mountain biking ended in Nevada after a tumble left me with a concussion and dislocated clavicle. However, our work visas came through, we flew to Sydney, and our next adventure began. But, the journey to get there was as beautiful a story for us as the amazing stories that followed.

I met Tom Maunder while working at City Park Co-op. Whenever Tom and I crossed paths we would have interesting conversations about life in general. Tom brightened up my day. Sometimes I would stop by his yoga classes just to say hi. Sometimes I would find Tom sitting on the bench in the courtyard. Now every time I pass by the courtyard I will remember Tom. I'm going to miss our conversations. R.I.P.
Steven Parsons

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How can I possibly say goodbye? I can’t and I won’t so I’ll carry you with me wherever I go. I’ll speak the truths you’ve taught me to my son. I’ll exhibit the strength you’ve always shown. I’ll never give up. I’ll continue to forgive others as you always have. I’ll be kind and see the glass half full. I’ll laugh your contagious, hearty laugh with joy in my heart. I’ll make you proud dad. I’ll always be your little girl and I’ll always love you. #restinpeacedaddy #myfirstwordwasdada

Dear Manny and Monette,
My condolences on the passing of your father. He sounds a wonderful person; you are blessed to have him in your lives and in the lives of your children. He lives on in the many happy and love-filled memories of shared moments together. Your family does have another angel watching over you in heaven. Prayers assured for the repose of his soul and for you and your family at this time.

Ming Roxas

Our deepest condolences. May your hearts be comforted despite the circumstances. Prayers offered.

Revelation 21:4 - He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.
Prayers and condolences offered.

Prayers and condolences offered by the De los Santos family in Manila.

My two favorite memories of Court are from the same day. The look of frustration he got from some one of Fred's antics/shenanigans (sadly I can't remember what the shenanigan was) and the look of joy he had later in the afternoon because Fred was pissed off at us for being out on the laser all day. I am very sad about this. However, I will think of Fred hopping around on the rocks and that will make me feel better.

I first remember hearing about Courtney from Amina during my last year of medical school. It was clear to me that she had found someone very special who shared her zest for outdoor activities and adventures. And eventually I met this wonderful man who loved to hike, mountain bike and boat, when my husband and I visited them in New Mexico. It seemed that Courtney and Amina were inseparable, moving from one adventure to the next. We kept in touch over the years, meeting them at medical school reunions and when they stopped by on their trips to Eagle Camp during the summer. It was clear that Amina and Courtney were a team and that they loved each other very deeply. Last summer, they travelled up to Vermont again and we had the pleasure of going out to lunch with them at the North Hero House. Courtney’s health had declined significantly but his spirit was just as strong and positive as always. He had such a wide range of interests and he spoke about traveling, nature and activities, but most notably about his family and children. It was clear that despite his illness, he still embraced life passionately, and that his family was the center of his life. We will always remember Courtney’s strength, generosity and goodness. And we will always remember how much he loved his family and how proud he was of his wife and children.

From Luxshana Maheswaran:
Mr. Maunder was my grade 12 English teacher at L'Amoraux High school from Jan -June 2008. He is so funny and flexible when comes to assignments. He never pressures anyone and always encourages them to do the work. If he knows that you are trying your best, he will pass you. I still remember one of my friends was getting 43 marks in grade 12 English class in June and she always skips classes, Mr.Maunder said to her come to class I will pass you. But my friend never showed up and, in the end, she failed. During the class time, he always shares with us about his personal life, I remember he said that he is the only child to his parents and father die at a young age and he is very close with his aunt. The aunt is a teacher too. She is the one who always encourages him to read books and because of her, he is a teacher. I still remember he said once he is happy that he didn't get married but at the same time he not happy that he didn't get married. Last time I saw Mr.Maunder on Aug 2010 and Aug 2020 I am writing this. Once I broke his pencil sharpener in the class and every time, I see a pencil sharpener I always think about him. Even at the beginning of this month I saw a pencil sharpener in Walmart, I was thinking about him. He was a great educator. His focus on critical thinking and the importance of having an opinion beyond what the test reads is such a great tool to help mold young minds. Rest in peace, Mr. Maunder.
Luxshana Maheswaran

I knew Tom through a large part of my childhood, as he was a close friend of my mother's for several years back in the 80s. I love reading everyone's memories here, as they are so consistent with my own - a gruff exterior and sometimes sharp tongue, but underneath it someone with deep, sensitive feelings who tried in their own way to express love. He had a great love of books and movies and a quick sense of humor. I know that many of his suggestions and ideas still influence me today. I'm glad to know that he had good friends around him towards the end of his life. He and my mother played endless games of scrabble, and sometimes there were "strong disagreements" about words and points. I'm not sure if it was that or something else that drove a wedge between them, but they drifted apart and I had only seen him very occasionally over the past few decades. It's been good to remember all the best parts of Tom and I feel lucky to have known him growing up. This photo is my favorite of Tom and my mother.

Mary Oliver wrote, "instructions for living a life: pay attention, be astounded, tell about it." I can think of no better description of my friend Courtney, who welcomed my family into his heart and his home when we moved next door. He took in everything and everyone; he viewed the world with wonder and a smile; and he told you the stories--of what moved him, what inspired him; of his life; of his family's lives, and their achievements and goals and loves. I will always hold dear his smile and his openness and his stories. Deepest condolences to his incredible family, whom he cherished and whom we hold close.

We are grateful for the tremendous outpouring of love and support from all who attended yesterday's celebration. I know some took photos and would appreciate having those shared with me, if possible. To follow is the web link to the album of photos we displayed yesterday for those who would like to revisit the images or for those who were unable to be physically present to enjoy: https://photos.app.goo.gl/nrEWVrNTLLxazrut7

Very sorry to learn of Tom's passing. I am certain he made a lasting impression on everyone who had the pleasure of meeting and knowing him.
I know I'll never forget my initiation into the personality that was Tom . Some years into my teaching "career" Tom joined the staff and our department head brought him round to each member present to make the introductions. I stood up, extended my hand and cordially said, "Hi, Tom. Nice to meet you."
Tom regarded my hand for a moment, and then took it with the enthusiasm reserved for picking up a dead rat. I believe his verbal greeting was, "Hmm." He warmed up to me ... eventually.
Tom, I will miss your intelligence and wit.
-- Chris Armstrong

Cool calm and collected - even when there is whitewater and rocks all around....1985

This picture really speaks to me about who Court was and how much he enjoyed life and adventures and sharing them with friends and family. Whitewater rafting with Court and Haralds Gaikis at the Clackamas River 1985

Whitewater rafting with Court and Haralds Gaikis at the Clackamas River 1985

Whitewater rafting with Court and Haralds Gaikis at the Clackamas River 1985

Whitewater rafting with Court and Haralds Gaikis at the Clackamas River 1984

Whitewater rafting with Court at the Clackamas River 1984

Whitewater rafting with Court at the Clackamas River 1984

Camping with Court at the Clackamas River Raab Campground1984

One of the neatest things about your Dad Courtney was the summer of 1984 when he first came to Seattle between his Junior/Senior year at Beloit. He had taken a class in computer programming at school that spring and i had met Virgil who said he was looking for a programmer and i of course spoke up and said oh my brother knows how to program...etc. Soooo Virgil called him and interviewed him and out he came to Seattle to work. Well Court and I hadn't really thought it through as i had a 1 bedroom apartment with a King waterbed that backed up against 2 walls.... but we spent that summer sharing a sloshing waterbed and one of the weekends Hazel and Eldee who were Uncle James and Aunt Margies next door neighbors came up and we went to Victoria for the day. Heard a band playing in the pavilion in the park there and everything. The thing about that summer that is so cool is that it really was the beginning of your Dad and I becoming much more close as we were both young adults then and on our own. I feel so lucky and grateful that i not only had him as a younger brother early on in my life but that i really got to know him and love him as an adult.

I met Courtney through his brother Fred and Peter Gimlin when I shared a house in Seattle with Fred and Peter in the late 1980's. Courtney visited our house often and we'd have conversations about politics, economics and fun stuff to do in Seattle. Courtney was a fun, energetic and a very smart guy. I remember him being very loyal to his family and friends. This is a picture of Courtney and Fred at Tonys and my wedding. Tony and I were at the party where Courtney and Amina met, and it was obvious they were both very taken with each other. I haven't seen Court since he left Seattle, but I will always consider him a friend. I am glad he is with Fred and his Mom and Dad in heaven. Cheri Borland Grasso

Eagle Camp 3-on-3 tournament, ready to play Defense

Eagle Camp Cocktails

Table full of Ellis's at Eagle Camp with Uncle Court

One of the intense 3-on-3 basketball tournaments held at Eagle Camp every year, Uncle Court is about to dish the ball to me for an easy pass to Mike for a layup!

The entire Atlanta gang (Missing Nate) at Carolina and I's engagement party, 2019

Uncle Court teaching me how to wind surf, Eagle Camp

Uncle Court and Aunt Amina at Mom and Dad's for Carolina and I's engagement party, 2019

Courtney and Peter visiting us in our first New York apartment, 1984

Courtney, Elise, Fred and Peter at Elise & Tony's wedding reception, July 1983

Dear Nate, Sabra, and Colin,
My brother Peter Gimlin grew up with the Ellis family. I have such fond memories of the zany antics the four Ellis brothers were always engage in. I was especially fond of your dad and Fred because they were such good friends with Peter and our brother Chris. When I first started dating my now husband Tony, I would regale him with tales of Ellis brother adventures. When he met them he too got to experience for himself all the infectious fun. Your dad had such joie de vivre! And as they say in New York he was a true mensch.
With love,
Elise Gimlin Mattia

I am so sorry to hear of your father’s (and husband’s) passing. I vividly remember meeting he and Amina when they rented 2058 ET from me. Amina was just starting her Fellowship at Emory and the need to be close to campus was essential. I got to know your father through the various visits to the house addressing all its little imperfections/annoyances . I recall often standing in that tiny kitchen speaking with your father about, well you name it, he was versed in so many areas. He was so smart and thoroughly interesting and yes, he was good at finding those imperfections I needed to address. I could hardly handle a hammer and a nail. He was so much better. There was once a huge tree in the back yard (probably one of the most massive in the neighborhood}. Your dad called to tell me it was beginning to lean. What, how could you tell that, I asked. Leave to to your dad. He had a picture of house taken when your parents moved in. It was from the street with the tree in the background. A then current picture showed the change in position. Yep it had to come out. Well, we both watched on one of those days as the tree guys did their job. They were actually hanging from the huge limbs chainsawing other limbs off. We both had to turn away someone was going to fall out of that tree...but they eventually accomplished the job..... Well, your mother completed her Fellowship and naturally offers abounded across the country. Your father told me of a visit to the beautiful Palo Alto area, I believe. After considering everything they ultimately decided Atlanta was a better place to raise a family. When Nate came along I recall tiptoeing into that bedroom with your dad. He always smiled and beamed as you slept. The house was so tiny. The living room and sunroom were your early playgrounds. Your dad was fully engaged and enjoyed every minute. When toys were pulled out there was hardly a place to step - not due to overindulgence but just lack of space. My young son would sometimes tag along with me. He would play with Nate like an older brother. Well when the necessary decision was made to move to a larger house your dad surveyed the area . Your parents visited many a renovated home. Your father was not impressed. So 2058 ET became the focus and the Renaissance Man decided to buy the house and move to a major expansion. Again, as typical, he was fully engaged. He walked me through the finished product. I was thoroughly impressed with his vision. What a place to raise a family....and I am sure he and your mother have done just that. I am so sorry he is not there to see the three of you grow and mature as individuals in your own right. He will always be in your hearts. No one can ever replace him. Prayers for all of you. Tim Biggs

Here he is at Fred and Betsy's in the early 90's celebrating XMass - Amina was sitting across from him

Here he is at Fred and Betsy's in the early 90's celebrating XMass - Amina was sitting across from him

Church photo late 69 or early 1970 - what a great smile

A couple of the family this was us in Arlington in 1965 for Xmass

Played bball with Grutzner and your dad in the parking lot of the kngdome in 1987

SHODASI : SECRETS OF THE RAMAYANA ENGLISH HINDI AND TELUGU ORIGINAL AUTHOR : SESHENDRA SHARMA Seshendra : Visionary Poet of the Millennium http://seshendrasharma.weebly.com www.seshen.tributes.in REVIEWS : www.facebook.com/shodasi / Books : https://kinige.com/author/Gunturu+Seshendra+Sharma Ramayana, a replica of Vedas S. VARADARAJAN There are several versions of the Sri Ramayana, one of the two greatest epics. Following Sri Valmiki Ramayana several editions have been published in various languages, besides scores of commentaries written across centuries. Late. Gunturu Seshendra Sharma, scholar poet of 20th Century unearthed secrets of the Ramayana through his popular Telugu book “Shodasi”. The novelty of nomenclature Shodasi , called Sri Vidya is reflected , in the 16th Chapter . Sharma’s intellectual depth comes forth in analyzing Sundara Kanda specially through Kundalini Yoga . The author highlights hidden truth in Valmiki’s thought that is similar to Vedas and says that Trijata’s dream in Sundara Kanda reflects Gayatri Mantra of 32 Syllabi in 4 lines. Sharma pays rich encomiums in the description of Lanka surrounded by three impregnable borders. He compares these three borders with Trikuta viz... Shakti , Kaamaraaja , Vagbhava Kutas with those of Sri Vidya in Kundalini . A staunch believer of Vedas, the author feels that Ramayana is a replica of Vedas and oriented towards the character of Indra . He concludes that in Ramayana the mentioning of the supreme God is Indra and not Vishnu, as the presiding deity of valour in Vedas. Utterances of the word Vishnu were considered to be imaginary overstatements in the author’s view. This book lends a new perspective to the Ramayana by adding the dimension of Kundalini Yoga . The foreword by Vishwanatha Satyanarayana adds credibility to the book. The current work is an English translation of the original by Gurujada Suryanarayana Murthy , a scientist by profession . His proficiency in the subject is evident in the translation throughout that doesn’t swerve from the original’s purport. The Hindu (Friday Review: 2nd October 2015) A Resplendent Icon of all Arts This is an exemplary book which elevated the status of Indian Literary Criticism to the peaks of the world literature. Shodasi is a name associated with a great hymn. The title suggests that it’s a book on spiritual discourse. A reading of this book suggests that the spirit of scientific temper is critical to comprehend Valmiki’s Srimad Ramayana. Besides this, command on Vedic or Scriptural knowledge is essential. What does a layman has to say when a towering personality like Viswanatha Satyanarayana himself extolled the critical acumen and serious scholarship of Seshendra Sharma. Sharma has made it crystal clear that unless one has an apparent understanding of the plot’s context, psyche of the characters, and the milieu of the bygone days supplemented by extraordinary scholarship, sound knowledge of phonetics and awareness on contemporary issues; one cannot easily comprehend the poetic diction of Valmiki. The debate on the phrase “Netraturaha” is a fitting example. The uniqueness of the title, Sundara kanda, Kundalini Yoga, Gayatri Mantra secretly hidden in Trijata’s dream sequence, considering The Bharatha as an image of The Ramayana.... this book is a repository of many such critical discourses. It is replete with inconceivable and unfathomable issues. This magnum opus is an invaluable gift to the Telugu literature. - VIPULA, Viswa Katha Vedika: May 2014 (An exclusive Telugu Monthly Magazine for stories) * * * Valmiki Ramayana – Greatest Medicine for Mankind The story of Ramayana is prescribed as textbook for students. Sita and Rama are worshiped as prime couple. No need to mention about reciting it. Whether Valmiki was satisfied with simple narration of the story? Seshendra Sharma denies it. He analyzed it mentioning that to understand the inner meanings of Valmiki Ramayana, the scientific knowledge is essential. The underlying secret of the sage’s mind will be known through the knowledge of science. It is the firm opinion of Seshendra that the argument that “the sciences are for scholars only” is a conspiracy hatched by Selfish scholars and lazy uneducated persons. Seshendra who has democratic ideology and conviction on science and literature informs the public about the secrets of Ramayana expounded by Valmiki. He explains that Valmiki dedicated ambrosia (The Greatest Medicine) named “Kundalini Yoga” to the mankind. The poetry in the metre of Anushtup Sloka is the honey coating to the medicine. It was explained with great introspection and exemplary scholarship. He concludes that the Ramayana is older than the Maha Bharatha and it is another form of Veda. Valmiki introduced the system of meditation in Ramayana. The Introspection and research bent of mind of Seshendra are spread over in the book in two streams. The exuberant fragrance of scholarship is experienced throughout the book. The present generation can understand the scholarship of Seshendra in Vedas and Mantra Sastra. Seshendra is a poet who has composed unique Ruthu Ghosha (Cry of the Seasons: Metrical Poetry) and revolutionary free verse –Mande Suryudu (The Burning Sun). - Andhra Prabha (Telugu Daily), 24th August 2014. * * * Two Great Peaks in the world literary criticism and research Shodasi: Secrets of The Ramayana and Swarnahamsa Harshanaishada from the mighty pen of the great Telugu poet, Gunturu Seshendra Sharma are considered to be the two great peaks in the world literary criticism and research. This is a truth most contemporary Telugu writers and readers aren’t aware of. The way Seshendra could discover Kundalini Yoga, Gayathri Mantra in Shodasi, he could discern the treasure trove of mantra yoga, Sri Mahatripurasundari, Chintamani mantra in Swarnahamsa. At a time when our universities which are mere Degrees production Units, churn out “solid waste” in the name of research; Seshendra even while attending to his job as a Municipal Commissioner created research oriented critical volumes like a sage. Though Shodasi was published in 1967 and Swarnahamsa in 1968; Swarnahamsa was created by him much before Shodasi was conceived. The concepts that Srinatha, Nannayya and Mallanatha, the Telugu Classical poets couldn’t decipher, Seshendra could. He humbly submits that he is most fortunate that the triumvirate had left behind some pertinent concepts only to be discovered by him at a later stage. These two great kavyas were serialised under the editorship of late Neelamraju Venkata Seshaiah in Andhra Prabha Daily, Sunday Literary Supplements from 1963 to 1967 and Seshendra’s poems and non-fiction were published in the book forms (6) only after they appeared in serial form in Andhra Prabha. ----------------- Gunturu Seshendra Sarma, the well-known poet, critic and scholar of unfathomable depth, has to his credit quite a number of books in Telugu as well as English. A keen intellect and a lucid exponent of the intricacies in Samskrit literature, the author brought out a treatise on Ramayana. The book also reveals the symbolism in our epics and shows the spirit behind. According to the author, Sage Valmiki has observed Ramayana as though it is a story of a dynasty in its outward appearance. But when the story part is kept aside, the hidden secrets of the Mantrasastra come out. Valmiki’s Ramayana is full of Vedic literature, language and usages. Ramayana can be appreciated from three angles. The poetic beauty, the historicity and the secret meaning of mother Parasakti. Later Upanishads have taken Valmiki Ramayana as the way to the Mantrasastra. Rama’s wife Sita is considered as Parasakti. In Devi Bhagavatham Sita is described as Goddess Gayatri. The author has taken unusual pains and quoted Vedic dictations which are literally taken by Valmiki in his Ramayana. Thus it has been a product of Vedas and the usages in Ramayana and the words used therein and the similies adopted by Valmiki speak inexplicably the secret of Mother Lalita in his stories. The author has given and attached a very great significance for Sundarakanda in Ramayana. The author has quoted numerous quotations from Smrithis and Srithis to establish that Sundara­kanda is beautiful because Anjaneya the Jeeva has seen Sita the Parasakti. Hence this canto is so styled as Sundara. According to the author “Sita” means “Kundalini.” Hanuman has seen Sita while she was sitting on the ground. Ground means Earth. Earth denotes Mooladharam. The serpent Kundalini stays in this. Thus it is symbolised as Sita sat on the ground. Hanuman the Yogi has the vision of Kundalini in Sita. With the aid of Ida and Pingala, Kundalini travels in Sushumna through spinal cord crossing the six fluxes, and finally reaching Sahasraram. This again speaks of “Shodasi.” Rama is a beautiful man. He is having a Sundari in Sita (a beautiful woman). The descriptions are beautiful in this canto. Thus it is synonymous with “Soundarya­lahari” of Sankaracharya. The author expressed that Mahabharata is a reflection of Ramayana in all the cause, origin and delivery. Innumerable similarities are quoted from both Valmiki and Vyasa to prove that the usages, style and similies are almost similar in both the epics. He compares Vyasa’s “Nalacharitam” with Sundarakanda of Valmiki in the vision of Srividya. The author further argues that Kalidasa’s “Meghasandesam” is only an imitation of Valmiki. The flight of Anjaneya in search of Sita is the basis for Kalidasa’s “Meghasandesam.” Both Sita and the Yaksha’s wife are described as “Syamas” – meaning in the middle of youth. The duration of separation is one year in both the cases. Ultimately the author said that “Meghasandesam” is the offspring of Ramayana, with yearning to see Parasakti. The author has taken the readers in his book to that sublime beauty where there is no further argument, than to enjoy the flow of citations with their intrinsic meaning and full of scientific vision. His unsurpassed knowledge in Mantrasastra has enabled him to pass dictums vivisecting the symbolic mysticisms into splinters and handing the kernel of truth under each word, usage, and application. He deserves all praise for this meritorious contribution to our literature. https://www.tributes.us/Seshendra-Seshendra-Sharma

In this interview father ( http://seshendrasharma.weebly.com ) pours forth his memories , feelings and experiences of his childhood of his village his father etc.

In this interview father ( http://seshendrasharma.weebly.com ) pours forth his memories , feelings and experiences of his childhood of his village his father etc.

In this 2 Minute Video clipping from Chilaka Gorinka ( Telugu Movie : 1966 ) Gunturu Seshendra Sharma ( http://seshendrasharma.weebly.com ) appears as a doctor :
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Visionary Poet of the Millennium
An Indian poet Prophet
Seshendra Sharma
October 20th, 1927 - May 30th, 2007
http://seshendrasharma.weebly.com/
https://www.facebook.com/GunturuSeshe...
eBooks : http://kinige.com/author/Gunturu+Sesh...
Seshendra Sharma is one of the most outstanding minds of modern Asia. He is the foremost of the Telugu poets today who has turned poetry to the gigantic strides of human history and embellished literature with the thrills and triumphs of the 20th century. A revolutionary poet who spurned the pedestrian and pedantic poetry equally, a brilliant critic and a scholar of Sanskrit, this versatile poet has breathed a new vision of modernity to his vernacular. Such minds place Telugu on the world map of intellectualism. Readers conversant with names like Paul Valery, Gauguin, and Dag Hammarskjold will have to add the name of Seshendra Sharma the writer from India to that dynasty of intellectuals.

Dear Nate, Colin and Sabra,

Thank you for setting up this place to share memories. I’ve uploaded some pictures of your dad from earlier days that I hope you will enjoy.

Your dad was so enthusiastic and energetic. Trying to make a list all the activities he did is exhausting: running x-c track, rowing crew, lacrosse, rock climbing, tree climbing, hiking, biking, canoeing, sailing, wind-surfing, waterskiing, skiing…. And he did them all so well. He and Fred were something to behold when they sprinted patterns up and down Potomac St. or later, Burke Ave., and drilled the football back and forth like a dart. (A tangential aside: one fond memory of childhood, much earlier, is charging around on the Ellis’s yellow tandem behind Courtney, pedaling like mad across the lawns, tossing the Northern Virginia Sun in the vicinity of subscriber’s door stoops.) What is more, he wanted you to do these things with him and share in the joy of it.

Courtney was passionate about pretty much everything; family, friends, projects, work, travel, nature. Hillary and I have a very fond memory of your dad on a hike in New Mexico where he was very adamant that we too should sniffing and taste the sap on the ponderosa pine trees around us to experience its black licorice flavor.

I hardly need to say how concerned and caring a person he was. I know he cared so much about you guys and your mom because he loved nothing better than talking about what you were up to and how you were doing.

Courtney was the best friend imaginable to have. He and all the Ellises have been like a second family to me and had a profound impact on my life. Hillary and I look forward to the day --hopefully soon-- when we can see you all and share some more stories in person.

With all our love for you and your mom, Peter and Hillary

Taking a dip in a stream, at Courtney's insistence. Not croc waters! Courtney, Peter, Hillary

Touring northern Australia with Amina and Courtney. 2000

Touring northern Australia with Amina and Courtney. 2000

Hillary and I visited Courtney and Amina in Sydney in 2000. Courtney was not permitted to work, so he had the free time to be the most amazing host and tour guide while we were there. Court with Hillary in downtown Sidney, showing that great smile.

Sunset supper on the summit of Castle Rock, by Hurricane Ridge, Olympic NP. September 1991

On the fire lookout tower, Goat Mountain, Cascades. 1991

With the beloved hand-me-down pickup truck of Casey's. We survived several years driving it; many fond memories. 1991

Having climbed Mt. Ellinor --second try to upload :)

Having climbed Mt. Ellinor in Olympic NP. 1988

In Olympic NP, overlooking the Strait of Jean de Fuca, 1988 or 89.

Court always had a great sense of style. Except when he did not. Here he is demonstrating his trick for cooking without getting out of his sleeping bag on a cold morning in a cabin, November 1988.

We stayed at a cabin near Mt. Ranier in November 1988 when Chas came for a visit to Seattle.

Court on the summit of Mt. Si in the Cascades in 1988. Hiking was one of the passions of his life.

Courtney in his bunk at Eagle Camp on South Hero island, Vermont. He is not pleased with the paint filter hat I provided him for his photo op. We painted over several summers in college to make money. Summer 1983, I think.

Courtney canoeing on the C&O canal near Carderock, summer 1983. Courtney loved being on the water and was an excellent canoeist, sailer, waterskier, windsurfer, etc.

This is Courtney with his brother Fred and two best friends, Charles Hoagland (l) and Peter Gimlin (r) in the 1987 at Bill & Mary's wedding. The details fade but the friendship will not. Peter

I was so sad to hear of Courtney’s passing. He was a kind, giving soul. Whenever we would run into each other he would give me a big smile and ask how I was. He would chuckle and said he would never forget me as long as he lived. I would remind him of a moment in time that was both frightening and hysterical.. It was over fifteen years ago that I had met Courtney and Amina during parent night at Decatur First Methodist Preschool. I was an Assistant MusicTeacher. He was always a pleasure to see during carpool and school events. It was shortly after the twins were born when we crossed paths while my family was traveling North from Georgia to NewJersey. We had stopped to stay the night in a hotel in North Carolina. Upon checking out the next morning, I caught the eye of a familiar person. Courtney had run into the hotel with a desperate look on his face. He saw me and explained that while traveling in their car, baby Sasha and baby Colin had, what I can only assume, “created” a big mess. (I didn’t ask what kind of mess, but it was BAD). He asked if I wouldn’t mind watching Nate in the car so that they could ask the hotel to let them use a room to change the babies. Luckily, the hotel was very accommodating. Nate was very happy to be entertained and didn’t cause any fuss. Mom and Dad returned very relaxed and appreciative that I was there at the right time. God works in mysterious ways. I really loved how much he loved his family and shared his gifts with everyone around him. It was nice to have this memory to make me smile and laugh. I pray that more memories like mine will keep Courtney alive in our hearts. God Bless.

Courtney was such a kind person. He was a huge help to me when I was room parent to Mrs. Brooks's third grade class at Fernbank Elementary. (Sabra and my Ella's class.) He volunteered many times but really came through when we had just a couple of days to pull off our book float parade entry. The book was "Where the Mountain Meets the Moon," and Courtney sat there cutting hundreds of pieces of construction and tissue paper with me and Christina Ward so our kids could make Chinese masks, a huge dragon banner, and a 3D mountain "float" covered in tissue paper carnations. He was unfailingly cheerful, and surprised us with his sly humor, slipping in these deadpan questions or comments that cracked us up while we worked. Over time, our kids went on to different classes (and schools) but we greeted each other at Fernbank – and then DSA – events, but I'm sad I didn't get to know him better. Amina, Nathaniel, Sabra and Collin, we are so sorry you've lost such a wonderful husband and father. Love to all.

My heart is so heavy that Courtney is not with us. Words can not describe how kind, compassionate, and present he was.
I met him when our sons started elementary school together 18 years ago, and Courtney was SO excited about ….well about EVERYTHING: about Fernbank Elementary, about our kids going to school, about Emory Grove, our neighborhood. We waited at the bus stop together each afternoon, and the more I got to know him, the more I realized he was just excited about LIFE. You got the impression that he woke up each morning raring to go, eager to seize the moment, exuding positivity, joy, and gratitude—all the components of a full, happy life, like a commercial for Zest soap or something. Even when he was sick, he was strong with happiness and kindness. Even when he couldn’t breathe well, he laughed out loud and made us laugh with him with his keen sense of humor and intellect. He was always smiling and always had time to chat.
He was MOST excited, though, when he was talking about his children and his wife. He literally lit up speaking of their achievements, and in truth there are MANY in that impressively accomplished family. His deep love for his family was evident in his entire being, and his immense love for his wife was poetic. Even when I told Raj, my husband, how beautiful it was that Courtney was SO in love with Amina that he shared it with the neighbors (in truth in hopes that Raj would then express his love for me to the neighbors as well), Raj and I knew that this was a Courtney trait, that his devotion to his wife was from the heart, and we both loved him all the more because of it.
Courtney was humble in the best sense. He could’ve spoken of his own vast accomplishments. His knowledge of EVERYTHING surfaced quietly in conversations, but he never spoke about his achievements, of his own singular successes and experiences. My feeling is he found nothing more accomplished than his triumphs as the quintessential father, husband, and friend he was. He touched more lives than he knew, and to me, he will always be the model of a life beautifully lived. He taught all of us how to be better because he really was the best.

I have just posted photos of Tom. Unfortunately I am finding this a difficult task. Sorry for the duplicates.

I have just posted photos of Tom. Unfortunately I am finding this a difficult task. Sorry for the duplicates.

Together at a party... in a public spot... who would have thought.

What a loss to anyone who never had the pleasure of meeting this legend. Tom and I met at a summer school gig about 20 years ago and became fast friends as I would make him lunch and had a car. He tolerated me and my wild personality to get to many an art show, antique market, cemetary or restaurant that didn't have ttc access or he prefered to be chauffeured... either way it was my absolute pleasure to be deemed worthy of his company. Tom was a master teacher and was a genuine professional who could reach the most difficult of students. He was a brilliant colleague who would share and advise you on methods and content.
He introduced me to many an art dealer and started my love for pochoir styled pieces. He was always willing to introduce me to a fabulous restaurant as well. I will missed being introduced as, "ignore her, she is on a day pass," or the critique of my messy car as, " I like what you've done with the place!" Tommy was also the best gift and card giver and I will treasure my special Tom gifts and cards now, more than ever. He even wrote a short essay on a dinner I made for him in my basement apartment years ago.
Always on his own terms Tom was a true gem of a gentleman. I will miss my Tom Cat. curmudgeon, dry witted, master minded friend. He was truly one of a kind and I am so glad he was part of my world.

Tom officiating Wil's nuptials... orange pants and all.

Tom and I at the now defunct Jersey Giant for my birthday party! Yes... he came!

Read the first sentence Flavio Belli's second entry

Mr. Maunder was an inspiring educator and person, sharing lessons that extended beyond the walls of his classroom. I will never forget how he motivated us, his students, to embrace our creativity.

A memorable experience dear to my heart was when he accompanied a group of aspiring young poets to an afterschool poetry reading. He saw fear in my eyes as my turn came along, so instead he voluntarily marched up to the auditorium stage, and shared my piece on the power of hope (fortunately for him this was before the advent of smartphones and viral YouTube videos).

Mr. Maunder expressed his support in countless ways. To this day, I am sure many of his students (myself included) still kept his handwritten cards of encouragement. He will be dearly missed.

Wendy Fang
(Pennamed UC12 by Mr. Maunder)

I met Tom during a major upheaval in my life. He had a reputation around City Park. He was very frank at times, and had a sharp tongue. The truth, though, was that was a quite sensitive and caring man. Tom was a great help to me personally. Like many others who called him a friend, I will miss him dearly.

From Pat Boyle

Tom was a colleague and friend. I will miss his droll wit and verbal flamboyance. We both had a love of teaching, literature and art, and I wish we could share more lunches and laughs...

I met Tom in 1971 when I first came to Toronto. As I loved the cinema I was a regular customer at Cine Books, Tom's store. I guess that means I have know him for 49 years. Because, I was there so often, we became friends. Soon Tom got to know many of family and friends, and became a part of our life.

Over the years Tom was present for many of the most important invents im my life. In 1981, Tom attended a baby shower for my son and gave him a beautiful yellow satin comforter and a beautiful teddy bear, both which he still has today. A couple of weeks after his birth we made a visit to Cine Books and I remember how thrilled Tom was to meet him. Many years later he attended his wedding. Tom didn't like weddings, so we were so happy he came. Over the years he attended many birthday parties, Christmas season parties, retirements and even came for Christmas dinner. I figured Tom had to have a soft spot for me or he wouldn't have shown up to so many social events.

As both he and I became busy with work and life in general we would talk by phone or meet up for lunch when his schedule would allow. He always seem to be doing something or going somewhere. Both being teachers, we would talk about the state of education and our frustrations with it. We also talked about cinema. Tom was a big fan of the golden age of cinema and loved Natalie Wood, Tuesday Weld, and Kim Novak. He gave me a photo of Natalie Wood taken in Toronto which hangs in my living room. At one point, I gave him my Tuesday Weld scrapbook which I had from my childhood. He loved it. Recently he sent me a link to a Turner Classic interview with Kim Novak. He insisted I watch it and we spent and hour talking about the career of "the fabulous Kim, as he called her.

Tom claimed to not be a big fan of birthdays. I probably have been sending him birthday cards since about 1975 and one year I forgot. I was on vacation and I forgot. I lguess when it didn't come he was surprised, or maybe, even disappointed. As he couldn't reach me, he called my sister to see if I was sick. It was only then that I realized that he did really like to be remembered.
I will miss Tom. I have let many of our mutual friends and my relatives know about his passing and I have already heard back from several who were sad to hear of his death.

Tom was funny and sarcastic, but he was also kind and generous. He was a good friend, someone I could always talk to about life. He certainly played an important part in my life and I am certain he did the same in the life of his other friends and of his students.
Julia Cardone

Court , For you my brother. xoxo Casey

From Ursula Carter:

Tom was indeed a crusty curmudgeon, but underneath that façade was a very caring individual. Our friendship over the years had its ups and downs, but it always somehow survived. Tom had a good sense of humor and a sardonic wit which always helped put things in perspective. I thoroughly enjoyed our occasional get-togethers and chats which were often informative and always fun. We were both lovers of books and a good read. Tom would frequently leave a copy of the New York Times Book Review supplement at my door. We were also both avid art lovers. I shall miss his presence at Citypark.

Bon voyage Tom.
Ursula Carter
CityPark

From Carol Glassman:

I am, like all of us, deeply saddened to contemplate life minus my friend Tom Maunder. This is possibly unnecessarily lengthy, but after knowing someone for 51 years, possibly longer than some of you have been alive, there are a lot of memories.
My friendship with Tom began in 1969, when we were assigned to teach at the same junior high school in North York. As we became acquainted, we quickly realized we shared the same sense of humour (irreverent) and opinions and philosophies about a lot of things, including teaching. Tom didn’t drive, so I used to pick him up and take him back from school each day. How I treasured those conversations we had! He adored the kids and they adored him. But our discussions didn’t stop there: we shared interests in books, politics, art. movies, and just about anything else you could name. I was going through the lowest, roughest period in my life at that time and I felt as if I had suddenly found a supportive brother in whom I could confide anything and always receive an honest opinion. Tom brought out the best in me and helped me to rebuild self-confidence as no one had ever bothered before.
Tom left teaching to join his friend David Beard at Cinebooks and when I was in the area, I would drop in and visit. He seemed very happy working there, fulfilled in ways that challenged his intellect -- ways that teaching might have ignored.
In the next few years, unfortunately, our lives took different paths and as often happens, we drifted apart and lost touch. The invitation to our wedding went ignored and I had no idea where he was - it was likely when he was in Europe.
I never forgot Tom, although marriage presented opportunities I never imagined and I periodically wondered what Tom would have thought about my new life. I also quit teaching, we moved out of Toronto to Belleville, Ontario, and then to Marco Island, Florida where I am today. I became occupied with competitive tennis and journalism, and worked 24/7, encouraged by my late husband, as a photo-journalist for two independent newspapers. One of my assignments was writing a popular weekly satirical column - and believe me, I thought of Tom often, hearing his voice in my ear saying, “That’s how you get your rocks off!”. Eventually a friend and I started an independent newspaper, Marco Island’s Coastal Breeze news.
Thanks to the Internet, when I was doing some totally unrelated research, I came across Tom’s name in reference to his antiques and art gallery. What a joy it was to contact him again! On my next trip to Toronto, just a few years ago, we had a heart-warming reunion such as you can only have with a near and dear friend, feeling as if time has stood still and you have never been apart. “Catchup” was both poignant and hilarious as you can well imagine. Tom admitted he had some health problems, but in his typical fashion brushed them off as inconsequential. Whenever I tried to pursue the topic he either ignored it or was deliberately vague. I knew, as many of us did, that he had recently bern hospitalized for tests. In his last e-mail to me, a week ago, he admitted: "Any heart surgery postponed for 6 months. Still living in hope of talking to a doctor who does not resemble some interplanetary traveller."
I cannot contribute more adjectives to Tom than the rest of you have already applied. All of us know what a unique, brilliant man he was.
In my faith, one’s ‘afterlife’ is determined by how one lived and the largest contribution one can make, in order never to be forgotten, is to live well and kindly. That is surely Tom’s legacy.

Tom and I shared a love of The National Gallery in London. We talked about every room in the gallery. When I was in Paris I sent photos of bizarre things in gallery windows. I know only a little. He knew a lot. He told me his aunt encouraged his love of art. Wise woman.

I loved the way Tom looked me each time I saw him, like he was studying me anew and deciding whether I was worth the time we would be spending together. It was the way he looked at art, deciding whether he wanted to spend more time with this piece or that. I loved his slow way of speaking, chewing each word with the enjoyment of a gourmand before delivering a startlingly precise, curmudgeonly caustic assessment. He was irascible, mischievous, funny, deeply intelligent, considerate, and committed to excellence. He earned all that he accomplished. I loved him for his passion for collecting art. A passion we both shared. I will miss him deeply. And Toronto has lost a champion of young talent.

Many of you may not know that Tom did the honour of serving as the celebrant at my wedding. My now wife Vinna and I thought hard about how to include him appropriately. Since one of his biggest peeves was why people engaged in "paired domestic relationships" we thought it cunning to ask him to marry us. He agreed to his role grudgingly, and on the big day Mr. Maunder appeared in bright orange pants. Thank you for the memories Tom.

Tom was a unique person. He was an wonderful English teacher, and anyone who experienced his class, as a student, was always very fortunate. I observed Tom teach, when he taught an all boys English class. I was in awe of his skills, knowledge, care, and ability to hold the attention of all 30 boys. Tom was a master teacher in the true sense of the word. His memory will be everlasting to his friends and students.

I met Tom while I worked in the office at City Park. We quickly got on as we shared the same dry wit and humour. We became friends over the course of my time there and I saw Tom almost daily whether it was in the hallway, courtyard (where he always had a book in hand) or arguing over the use of an oxford comma in the minutes I had taken at a board meeting. Tom was one of my great confidants in Toronto - I was new to the city and sometimes felt lonely. Whether it was advice, demanding to know what book I was reading or a shared eye roll over a particular frivolous topic at a board meeting, Tom was always there for me. After I left Toronto and back to my hometown we still kept in touch and he always seemed happy to hear how my life was going. Tom - you will be missed! You had a great impact on my time in Toronto and I am so glad I was able to call you a friend.

Tom and I met 9 or 10 years ago. We became friends quite quickly. We made each other laugh and found humour in odd situations. We both screened calls and his answering machine drove me crazy. He will be missed!!

It is said that one of the measures of a good man is the relationship he has with animals. Here is Tom with my pup Bear. They had a bond for sure.

I met Tom (Mr. Maunder) in the Spring of 2012. I had just moved into a unit on the floor he lived on in City Park Co-op. I am a fairly outgoing person and since I had learned his name from others, I greeted him one day at the elevator with “Hi, Tom”. His response: “It’s Mr. Maunder”. I knew right away we were going to be friends. I gained so much from my friendship with Tom. He was, among other things, a confidant, a teacher and my greatest cheerleader. We served together on the Aging in Place Project in the co-op. This picture represents a playful side of Tom that many would never have the pleasure of knowing. My life has been enriched from knowing Tom and I miss him greatly. As I type those words, I can just hear him saying “Oh Jo-Anne, don’t be so sentimental”, and I smile.

From Janet Thorsley:
Tom sent the best birthday cards! Not sure where he got them or how much time he spent selecting them but they were always perfect and made me laugh so hard when I got them. Will miss his chatty, humorous christmas emails too. I will miss him!

Tom loved coming to Oro-Medonte, to share stories, to shop the antique stores, and then to enjoy a morning coffee on the deck. It was an extra bonus for him if there was a spectacular electrical storm to enjoy in the evening.

Tom spent weekends roaming the galleries across the city. LE Gallery, Katherine Mulherin, Erin Stump Projects, Feheley Fine Arts, General Hardware, and Ingram were all stops on the tour. He always said he nailed "the look" in this photo at my gallery from the early 2000's

Tom loved his tennis, and would screen his calls during any tournaments. He agreed to join me at Rogers cup for a few matches. He brought hard boiled eggs to eat in the stands.

I'll miss our times spent discussing the art market, Francis Bacon, antiquing and of course, discovering parts of Toronto you were convinced had no redeeming qualities.

Miss and love you Dad!

So very true...

Happy birthday Ju. Thinking of you especially today. ❤️ Love, Tiff, Jo, Briel & Kel

I know that when you get where you're going you'll be free of pain and diabetes. You'll be larger than life and happy! I love you Dawn.

Beautiful tribute. Well done!

Love you Mom!

Join Cece, Sydney, Eleanor, and Maria Hallisey
in a COVID-friendly* celebration of Greg’s life
Friday, August 14, 2020
7 - 9 pm
(light desserts and shared memories around 8)

Meadowlark Botanical Gardens Atrium
9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct, Vienna, VA 22182
(Parking in front of the Atrium, to the right when you enter)

Black not necessary
Stay safe, friends!

*We ask that all guests wear masks, sanitize, and remain 6 feet apart in the
open atrium with an air filtration system or outside in the botanical garden

Poly Swim Team Relay 1985 - Greg, Kevin, Kai, and Mike

Greg and I grew up swimming together on Riverside Aquatics and played water polo at Poly High. We spent a lifetime in the water, on the pool deck, and hanging out. He was a stud in the water and in the classroom and I have so many great memories of Greg. I think he only wore one pair of flip flops during high school - when he graduated I think they were paper thin. One of my best memories was when he appeared in Playboy....with the Brown Water Polo Team. Talk about street cred, he was instantly famous in Riverside. Although we lost touch after college I'm glad to hear he has a wonderful family and kept his love for water polo.
My thoughts and payers are with the Hallisey Family.
Kevin Timko, Riverside

Greg’s passing has left me so sad. Our beloved Dink! I have such wonderful memories of great times with Greg. I hope that for others too his memory will be for a blessing. Martina and I send our dearest love to Cece and the girls -we hold you in our hearts
Andy, Martina, Max & Leah

No words can express the sorrow we’re left in knowing you’re not here with us. There are conversations left unspoken, laughter and smiles that will have to wait till we see you again. We cry for the breaking of our hearts but rejoice because we know with certainty that you are with God. My dearest sister in God and in my heart, I pray I live a life that continues your ministry and I carry a candle for you in my heart forever. Thank you for shining your light in our lives and, thank you for showing me that in my darkest moments God is always there. We love you always and forever. Doug Rubi Ezra Coppock

https://youtu.be/8RDUjA0fN4oPics from 7/31/20: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1mMmpmI2G9oIjw2MyTpyupVwbofkBMRJVDeAdera Gardner today we gathered to honor your memory with a pause in this crazy life. It was so good to be back where our journey together began...where we all “grew up”...our “home” for so many years! In hindsight, the years were few in comparison to how many have passed but, they were so significant in making us all who we are today they just carry so much more weight in our hearts. I still struggle to believe it’s true but I know for sure you knew Christ for yourself so today we rejoiced in knowing we will see you again. Everything about our time together today was just so perfectly you. Your sister, Schemar Gardner, did an amazing job speaking today and your friends shared stories to remind us all you put your stamp on this world, you didn’t waste a moment, you were here! #wewillneverforgetyou #bubblerelease #art #memories #together #foreverconnected

Dear Bob and Janet, Sue and I are sorry to hear of Marge's passing. It was only a few months ago
that we being in Tucson, felt the urge to call her and send kisses over the phone line. Marge would
then say, my kiss is coming right back to you. Marge was a beautiful lady in so many
ways, always smiling, cheerful and happy ----a joy to be with. God blessed you both with good
health, longevity, and seventy two years of marriage. A truly beautiful life.
Sue and I recall the many good times we had together such as playing golf at Bogie Lake,
Garlands, TreeTops and Shanty Creek. We also remember the many nights we spent
at the Meadowbrook music programs. Marge and Sue would bring the picnic dinners
which we enjoyed in that lovely outdoor setting. We then spent the evening listening to beautiful music on a warm summer evening. What Joy ! You were are dear friends and we'll
cherish the many wonderful memories. Marge is with the angels. Nothing could be
any better. Affectionally, JD and Sue

Dear Bob and Janet

Dayton was my first real boss in Corporate America and I have been in his employ for over 25 years, at VCFA Group. When I met him, I was just a college student forging my path in this world. Dayton showed interest in my life and the lives of all his employees, offering advice and help to those close to him. He showed care and compassion for everyone he met. He joined us at our wedding and celebrated the birth of our children and their life events with us. I am sad that he will no longer be able to share future celebrations with us. My children will never forget sailing with him in NYC on a tugboat. He always had a smile on his face and was a pleasure to see in the office and talk to whenever he was in town. Our firm, and I, will miss our fearless leader and I hope we can continue his legacy and continue his dream for VCFA. He will surely be missed. --Rivka Weinberger

Your presents

Love you mom

Miss you today. Happy birthday hope you are dancing it up, up there. The pictures are your gifts and card.

not sure who we were muggin

very intelligent

very intelligent

we were hard headed and got in the pool anyway.. I used to be embarassed of this pic, sis, but now i love it, just because we were having fun together

always together

My heart goes out to Bob, Janet and the entire family. Janet would tell me stories and show me pictures of Margaret. One day I was lucky enough to meet this very striking women. While her and Bob were in Florida I was able to spend the day with Margaret on a trip to Cabbage Key. This trip was just the girls...me, Janet and Margaret. We laughed so hard that day talking and reminiscing that my cheeks hurt. It was a day I will always remember. Over the years I have been able to witness the spark that Margaret and Bob shared. That type of spark keeps hope in my heart that I will be as happy as they were together. Margaret will be with you forever in the memories you have shared over a lifetime together. Love, Christine

Friend I'm going to miss sitting with you after work for hours in the lobby talking about randomness. People walking by us saying "Why are y'all still here? Go home." A lot of the times when we did finally leave we'd call each other because we forgot to tell each other something & then you'd stay on the phone with me while I took that long drive home. When I told you about my cousin loosing everything in her apartment due to a fire you & your sister went out & bought her so much stuff. Neither of you had ever met her but because of y'all's sweet, loving, Godly heart y'all did & we still thank you for that. It's so unbelievable that you're not here but I get comfort in knowing that you are resting well with the Lord. I really miss you friend. #RIHFriend.

Thank you everyone for coming! I am still adding photos to this page, if I missed your photo in the slideshow I apologise! x Nicole

An Allstate Angel has earned her wings. I will miss you. My heart and prayers go to your family. Specially to your son, Bryce. I have never met a more kinder, gentle human in my life. Thank you for allowing me to be part of yours.

My sincere condolences to Bob, Janet and extended family of Margaret. I was lucky enough to meet Margaret for the first time at a Christmas Party in Janet's home in Florida. She was a striking women that was dressed to a tee with no detail left out. She had a sassy sense of humor and was always a pleasure to speak with. She always had a smile on her face and you could tell she enjoyed life to the fullest. I’m happy I was able to travel to Michigan and visit Bob, Margaret and Janet last September and spend some time with the family. Seeing Bob and Margaret together after 75 years of marriage was a nice reminder that true love still exists. I hope all the happy memories of Margaret will comfort you both during this difficult time.
Sending you both lots of Love, Melissa

Kim, I am so sorry for your loss. You often spoke so fondly of your sister. I am thankful that you have so many wonderful memories of your lives together. That will help you carry on. I am praying for strength and comfort, for you and the children, to get you through the days, weeks and months ahead. Love you.~Linda Booker, ex co-worker

Such a sweet, wonderful woman and mother! When I saw you and Bryce picture Tuesday I lit up with excitement to see you guys thinking it was you, but when I read the message my heart instantly dropped and tears began to run! This i wouldn’t have imagined! Not to someone so kind, loving and faithful to God as you! Deeply saddened I am! You were one of the first parents to gravitate to me as a Coach. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to coach Bryce, not only in a basketball manner but life as well! I’m forever grateful for your trust! Thank you soooo much for the fun, special moments and conversations we got to share on and off the court. You are truly loved and will be missed dearly! Bryce, my heart and prayers are with you buddy!! I’m praying for you, your strength and your family as well! Know that your mother is in such a better place and she’s always with you. If you ever need to vent, talk, play ball I’m only a phone call away, don’t hesitate. To Kimmecha, thank you so much for reaching out to me and allowing me to be apart of this beautiful tribute to such a beautiful soul! This meant a lot to me! Love, Kiera....Coach Green.

Prayers! Wonderful mom and creative and fun!

Dear my lovely Dee, I really can’t believe you are gone. You were an amazing person inside and out and always was so full of light and love. We met when I was 19 years old and you never judged me, criticized me but you loved me for me and I will never forget that. I have so many memories of us enjoying our time together and when your son Bryce came into your life. You became an amazing mother on top of the beautiful person you already were. I will truly miss you and I will cherish every memory we have friend. REST EASY IN HEAVEN.

My deepest condolences to Bob, Janet, and family on the passing of Margie. Your family was a part of my family, and I have so many fond memories over the years of spending time together on vacations, holidays, and visiting one another. Margie, Bob, David and Janet were always so welcoming when we visited, and Margie was the best cook ever. I still, to this day, make her Peaches and Cream cake which everyone loves. Margie was a beautiful person, inside and out, and I will never forgot her smile, her kindness, and how stunning she always looked. I always thought she was so pretty. She loved her family and friends. And, yes Janet, I do remember Margie's and Bev's "Happy Dance" when they hadn't seen each other for a while and got together. They were, and will always be, BFF!! Bob, Janet, and Johnny, have peace in the precious memories you have of Margie and in knowing how much she loved and cherished her family. You will be in my thoughts and prayers always.

Lynn Heavner

Dee,It's like I am at a loss for words, need its been this way every since I heard the news about your home going. I watched you grow into this amazing woman of God. So I know you are in a better place now. I've done so well not to cry, but I can't hold back the tears any longer. My heart is broken as I think about how great of a person you were & no one see will get to experience it. All I can do is think about how great of a mother, sister, friend, & lover of God you were & has pasted from this side of glory to the greater side. I miss you dear friend. & I know there will never be another like you.Will you please give my aunty, Granny, & nephew a giant hug for me & tell them I miss them & love them as well. I know you are excited about seeing your mother again;tell her hello & I miss her as well. I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU ALL AGAIN! So, save me a seat next to you.Ms Mecha,You are one of the worlds greatest sisters. l know Dee is so proud of you. She left her greatest prize possession to you. Her son. She knew that if she ever had to depart from this world you could carry on her legacy through her son (Bryce). She truly was happy & grateful to not only be your sister, but your "Ride or Die " best friend. How do I know? Bc she told me so. I am also proud to call you my friend. This is a beautiful memorial. Bryce, Words can't even form into sentences for me to express my condolences for your loss. One thing I know if nothing else, your mother LOVES YOU w her every being. She left you in the best hands ever; your aunty. We all love you baby boy! To all other family & friends, I send to you my condolences.

Psalms 116:15 (KJV) Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.

Thank you for being my friend. I am praying for strength for the family and her son. The Word of God tells us "Blessed in the sight of the Lord is the death of His Saints"

She was an awesome mom who served God wonderfully, I will miss you and I love you..love Bryce

May God wrap his arms around and comfort your family in this time of need..I never meet a sweeter soul!!!

Rest in heaven. You will be missed.

Prayers for you and the family of this beautiful spirit we got to know and love DeAdeara. No amount of words could ever console you, but just know we are here to support any way that we can for the family. All those who are believers in Christ, we shall meet her again. Job well done DeAdera.

Prayers for you and the family of this beautiful spirit we got to know and love DeAdeara. No amount of words could ever console you, but just know we are here to support any way that we can for the family. All those who are believers in Christ, we shall meet her again. Job well done DeAdera.

Thank you for helping me stay safe and showing me love...I will miss you.. love Jayden (typed by jayden)

Heavenly Father I pray I can please you as well as my sister did. I'm sorry for feeling hurt, that she's left me, I just miss her so much. Next to you Father, she was my all in all. Please grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, for I know you are the author and finisher of it all. I give all praise , honor & glory to you Abba......DD..To Everything there is a season, & a time for every purpose under heaven..(Ecclestastes 3:1)

Well done, thy good and faithful servant...(till we meet again)

I send my most sincere condolences to Mr. Schultz, Janet, and all friends , family and extended family of Mrs. Schultz. I was lucky to have met her a few times as she and Mr. Schultz visited Janet in Florida. They were a lovely couple. So sweet, so kind. I will forever remember her stunning and flawless fashion sense and her sweet and beautiful smile. I want to be just like her when I grow up. To me, she was the epitome of style and grace. I too enjoyed some of her Christmas treats, martinis and company. Janet, if that caramel corn you made during the holidays was inspired by your Mom, she taught you well and know that I think about it EVERY YEAR! Sending lots of love to her family and wishing you all peace as you mourn the loss of such a lovely lady.

My condolences to the family. It’s so nice of Bob and Janet to share their loving memories. As a young boy and now an old man, I’ve known Margie my whole life. The thing I most remember about Margie, even as a boy, was the love she had for her family and they for her. Everything she did seemed to spring from that love. She would always greet you with “it’s so nice to see you or hear your voice” and yes an occasional snort and laugh would follow she was so happy. Margie will always be Margie, but truly for me it will always be “Marge and Bob and Janet and David” as they were always one. Be at peace with having the light of Margie in your life and with you forever.
Bill Heavner

Roland singing Family Bible to his family back home in California circa 1977/1978

My condolences to Mr. Schultz and Janet on the passing of Mrs. Schultz. I had the pleasure of attending a few Christmas parties in Florida with the family. Margaret was so lovely and I admired her kindness and her impeccable fashion sense. Every time I saw her she looked lovely. I will alway remember the fabulous black and white photos of her on Janet’s wall. I was so honored to have Mr. and Mrs. Schultz at my wedding. Every Christmas I think about the absolutely delicious cookies Margaret made for Janet that ended up in my belly. Sending peace and love to the family.

Charlie was my first real guy friend moving to Brunswick & introduced me to so many people. Without him I wouldn’t have had the high school experience I had. I am so glad I had the chance to get to know his crazy, sweet, funny soul. He lived life like there was no tomorrow. He taught me many things about life. Especially to not care & live in the moment. Charlie never judged me. No matter what I did. If anyone & I mean anyone tried to mess with me he was there to defend me. Sometimes literally there to defend me! He was there for me many times. Even when I was so down sometimes, he’d take me to get ice cream or to dinner to make me feel loved. He lit up any room he was in. Charlie is one of the few people who could bring my ugly laugh out when he joked around with me. He had this way about him that made your day better. To know him was to love him. I will always keep him & our memories in my heart. Long live Charlie B. Gone but never forgotten.

Posted on Behalf of Dimakatso Motaung

Mokhachane o thobile
Ntate Mokhachane o suthile,
Ntate Mokhachane o siretse,
Empa mehopolong ya rona
O tla dula a le teng.
Kajeno re bina pina ya Basotho
Re bina kodiyamalla sebele
Ho tsamaile senatla, ho tsamaile kwakwariri,
O ne a ikgantsha ka Bosotho ba hae,
O ne a boulella meetlo le dipuo tsa Basotho
Mebetsi ya hae e siile menyabuketso
E kekeng ya phumulwa mehopolong
Ya basebetsimmoho le yena
Kajeno lefu le fihlile le sa mengwa,
La kena lapeng la Mokhachane,
La mo hlwibila la ya ka yena
Bana sala ba rwetse matsoho dihloohong
Ba baphasaphasa seka madinyane a kgoho
Ba mathela hetleng la mme,
Ba lla sa masisapelo seboko,
Ba lla sa mmokotsane sello.
MmaMokhachane, tiya ngwaneso
Hlakola menyepetsi mahlong
Aparang kobo ya tumelo lona ba haMokhachane
Hoba thato ho phethahetse ya Ramasedi.

Written by:
Dimakatso Motaung
SES-Sesotho Languages

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from Blake

from Blake

from Blake

from Blake

from Blake

Ron was a delightful brother in Christ who always had a big smile for everyone he met. He will be missed.
O'Neil

Charlie had a spirit indescribable by words. Anyone that met or knew him would would agree that his ability to light up a room was unrivaled. To me, Chuck was a best friend and sort of little brother. Throughout my years of knowing him, I watched him grow immensely and adapt to the obstacles presented by reality. Charlie was never scared of any stunt or dare, and always encouraged me and challenged me to take my endeavors to the next level. His determination to fulfill a goal was nothing less than admirable. I will always miss the countless memories we made, but will remain grateful to have had such an amazing and badass person in my life. Charlie lived in the moment, and never let little things or obstacles obstruct his vision. His ability to put a smile on my face at any time and his fierce passion for true friendship will live with me for the rest of my life. Charlie's life, although short lived, affected the hearts of countless people in ways we can't even imagine. I love you Bischof, and I wish I would have gotten to say it more while you were here. Fly high, little bro.

LLCB

Ron played so many roles in my life throughout the years. He married my mom when I was eight. He loved her dearly. That was always obvious. In his later years he told me often that the best decision of his life was marrying Donna.
He bought me my first guitar and he was always my biggest music fan.
The last 10 years of his life, as Alzheimer's slowly took his memories, he and I bonded
in a way we never had previously. It was extraordinarily difficult to deal with the complications of that disease, but there were some silver linings too. I will remember playing billiards together everyday for 3 years, until he could no longer remember how to play. There were long walks with the dogs and lot's of coffee drinking together. I loved his sense of humor.
I want to thank all of his caregivers at Good Samaritan for their kindness and for falling in love with him as if he was part of their family. Not once in the 5 years he was in Memory Care did I worry about his well being.
He is now reunited with the love of his life and free to ride the wide open spaces of heaven, never to be fenced in again.
He was my favorite cowboy - Kim

I met Charlie on Xbox when I was 10 and he was 12. It’s weird to say someone I met online had one of the biggest influences on me but I truly believe this. Charlie was like the older brother I never had when I was younger. I got the older person view on things. As we got older we didn’t play as much but instead would always Snapchat each other the wild or funny things going on, or catch up on a FaceTime call. There’s certain things that Charlie has told me or put me on to that I know for a fact nobody else would in my entire life. Charlie has me in Sea Island and UGA polos and I live in Connecticut hahaha. I send my condolences to all his friends and family, and especially Spro, Zeke, Cullen, and Ebuh I know how close you guys were with bro. #LLCB.

I remember the last time I spoke to Charlie. I hadn’t seen him in a few months, but we saw each other at the beach on July 4th and he came running towards me. He gave me a hug and kissed me on the cheek probably five or six times and told me he loved me. I just wanna say, I love you too Charlie. You and your smile will forever be missed. LLCB.

From Blake <3

From Blake

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A friend of 30years+ and one of the most memorable things about Kevin was that he was such a kind considerate person who would help anyone in need, nothing was to much trouble. How your family was your pride and joy a loving husband to Eileen, so proud of your two children and all of their achievements in life and of course the icing on the cake when your granddaughters came along it seemed that life couldn’t get any better, during all this time your illness was slowly taking its toll and you had several episodes in hospital but with your grit and determination you were back amongst your family who loved you dearly. As poorly as what you were we still thought that you would be back home but this time it had taken its toll and we have lost a very dear friend. We will miss the chats your wicked sense of humour, huge pile of sandwiches, no one could beat your ham sandwiches and yes I was very privileged to have tasted your hot cross buns, Busy Bee will never be the same now, so rest peacefully our dearest friend we will very much miss you, all our love Sue and Dave xxxx

I just wanted to reach out and say hello. I am very sorry for your loss. A few years ago I got to chat with your mom for a while, and I learned a lot about her, your dad and your family. And I've appreciated having your family as my extended family for all these years.
I'm sending my love and want you to know you and your family are in our hearts.
With love,
Rachel B.

From Blake Stanfield <3

From Blake Stanfield <3

From Blake Stanfield <3

From Blake Stanfield <3

From Blake Stanfield <3

Ta Freddie, so I called you. I am so saddened by your your untimely passing. I was promoted, trained and grown professionally under your leadership. We reminisce about how you used to say if we don't want to work, you will take us to Teachers Center and Sizokozonda Size Sikuthande.

I guess it all was all GOD's plan. I am so grateful to have met you i my life's journey.

So long Freddie

hey babe,
So I took Christys door off the hinges because she was being totally disrespectful. A couple of hours later she came walking out of her bathroom glaring at me while I was sitting on the couch. And I said" What the fuck are you looking at you want me to take your eyeballs too?!" Bahahahahahahaha I knew you would have gotten a kick out of that. I miss you so much Steven. Love me always xoxoxoxoxoxoxox

Trialfa Omega is a very beautiful person with a great spirit, who passionately inspired others around him to live a spiritually-aligned life. The positive affect he has had on the community around him was never in vain and will live on for years to come. There was always an authentic spark of soulfulness within him that touched me and those he came into contact with very deeply. My heart and soul go out to him and his entire family. He was greatly appreciated by many.

Posted on Behalf of Adv Alison Bengtson
DDG:CMD

A Tribute to Freddie Mokhachane

What a devastating loss to the Gauteng Department of Education and to Freddie’s family! What an absolute loss! Sorrow fills my heart this sad moment, a sorrow that is deep and personal.
Freddie was a thorough professional. He was excellent in everything that he did, no matter how big or small the task. I remember Freddie as being a true gentleman, always smiling, always willing to assist. Freddie contribute much to the development of the EN district. He generously gave us his knowledge, his expertise, and his skills. He was a committed official and I am proud to have known him.
My heart, like everyone else is broken. Freddie may your soul rest in peace! My sincere condolences to the family.
Maya Angelou says “A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again”.
Adv Alison Bengtson
DDG:CMD

I, Grace Tshetlo, former principal of ikusasa want to thank God for bringing people like Mr Mokhachane in my career path who is one of the people that believed in me and gave me support that bore sweet fruit at our school. He would always remind who the Captain of Ikusasa was, in 2014 wen we got 95% pass he promoted me to be Pilot of the school.
■ In 2010 a learner Samson could not even afford a pen, not even for the exams, got 5 distinctions soaring in maths and sciences but did not have money to further his studies. It was Mr Mokhachane who said " Mme a re fumanele ngoan enoa bursary" . Today the boy is an engineer he has lifted his family and some neighbors to a better life more important there are other kids he is helping with study fees. He had planned to visit Mr Mokhachane in spring at least.
■ In 2011 Mr Mokhachane solicited two mobile science laboratories for our school from ChemServr and at the presentation he made an instant requisition for the third lab and it was delivered in three weeks. These labs saw our matric Life sciences and Physical sciences results improving to 100% and 98% respectively (the 2% being learners who joined the school in grade 12.)
■ Whenever we had more learner intake in January, I knew who to talk to, to get stationery even from the principals who had claimed not have any surplus. I will always thank God for people like Ntate and will always cherish their support

Posted on behalf of Grace Tshetlo

“BROTHER” as we fondly called you “Good night”. You’ve ran your race and your footprints will forever be engraved in our hearts. You served the entire Ekurhuleni Community and Stakeholders with great pride and dignity it deserved. Your zeal for a constructive change in education system will forever be remembered. In you, a big tree has indeed fallen.

Thanks for believing in me more than I can believe in myself. Thanks for developing me into the person I am today. Will always cherish your guidance, leadership and support. You might be gone, but you’ll never be forgotten.

GOOD-BYE MY LEADER
TILL WE MEET AGAIN

Farewell Cadre Freddie Mokhachane
The only certainty in our present world is rapid and accelerating change. We can either ride with the changes hoping for the best or use the changes we recognise around us to our best advantage. The most distinctive human response to any major or minor change is resistance. Individuals resist change as they fear letting go of the old, safe, routine ways of conducting their business for an unknown and unsafe territory. As humans, we prefer routines and tend to stick to our habits. Furthermore, the transition between the present state and the changed state is difficult for individuals and organisations, as it involves the ending of the current state. William Bridges (1980) discusses the process of individual change by presenting four stages that individuals must pass through to move into the transition state and effectively change: disengagement, misidentification, disorientation and disenchantment!

None of us could have predicted that today we will all go through these states of transition when we got to receive the devastating message of the passing on of our comrade, friend, brother, husband and father! Freddie Mokhachane, ntja mme, the cat, Cosatu is no more. He was boisterous, passionate, full of laughter, full of life, firm approach and uncompromising belief in all that is good. We are sadden as we dip his spear to mark our respect for a leader, a cadre, a loyal and dedicated servant of our people, isicaka esibekekileyo. He served the people in various capacity, the foot print he leaves on the ground bears testimony to that.
His comrades in the various ANC chatsites will miss his inimitable and robust style as he left no stone unturned from his strong views on the frailties of the reign of the former President Zuma, he did not spare our Mayor and demanded loyalty to the Presidency of HE President Ramaphosa. For a while during the reign of former President Zuma, he had lost all interests in politics and work of the ANC. He did not take much to be convinced and he returned to be the ANC chairperson in Crystalpark. He served with distinction and was followed by another solid Cde in Bangilizwe Solo. He unfortunately has also followed Cde Freddie and passed on the following day after the passing of Cde Freddie. It is almost as if that they wanted to accompany each as they go to join the ANC Branch in Heaven. Cde Freddie was categoric, it is either you are with us or against us. Cde Freddie, as we touched on the metaphor of the states of transition embraced unequivocally the “Thuma Mina” invocation and robustly demanded that we must all respond positively….there is one President that is HE President Ramaphosa.
He entered into teaching during a period when teachers were very conservative and feared authority. Very few teachers participated in the progressive teacher union known as NEUSA. It did not take much to recruit this former member of Sasco from Wits. He was very loud about the virtues of a free South Africa and a free Nelson Mandela. NEUSA together with the UDF and affiliates were banned and a huge gap was created. Cde Freddie in his first week at Unity Secondary was already seeking out the “leadership” and demanded action. No amount of calming him down, succeeded and with the support of the COSAS grouping we were forced into action and established the Benoni Teachers’ Union (BETU), supported by Cosatu Khetsi Lehoko.

Cde Freddie is a former member of Sasco whilst at Wits University. Immediately after he started teaching, he joined the only progressive teacher union, an affiliate of the UDF and NECC, the NEUSA. (Curtis Nkondo was President & Thulas Nxesi, the National Secretary). He joined us to form the Benoni Teachers Union after Cosas insisted that we must establish a progressive teachers Union, after the banning of the UDF & NEUSA! Cde Freddie distinguished himself as an organisor as he became the main instigator and chief recruiter for the BETU. We had strong support from Dayco, Cosas, etc. Who attended all our meeting with dangers of being arrested? BETU started strong mobilisation of the teachers and for the first time organised marches and other forms of actions like stopping visits to school by apartheid inspectors, Cde Freddie was instrumental in preventing any apartheid inspired school inspection, rejected the notion of the promotion of separate schooling. He was part of the team that confronted the police to stop harassing students and invading schools. Several meetings were held with the police and students to engage the police on their violence against students and schools. Schools became a no- going area to schools inspectors and those who were intransigent were frogmarched out of the school into their cars and pelted with eggs.

He moved from one school to the next to ensure that no Departmental official entered any of the schools. BETU in 1990 folded and closed and became Sadtu. SADTU was launched at Sharp 17 and Shepherd Mdladlane became the first President. Cde Freddie developed the nickname of "Cosatu" as he strongly campaigned to have Sadtu to become an affiliate of Cosatu. Most Sadtu members who were both PAC and Azapo teachers vehemently opposed this campaign until through Cde Freddie's strong campaigning we won over the whole of the East Rand for Sadtu to join Cosatu. This was achieved by 1991. Cde Freddie embarked on staff mobilization and came into collision course with his principal, who mobilized the parent body of the SGB against Cde Freddie. He was threaten and intimidated for mobilising on behalf of Sadtu until the leadership came to his rescue and met with management and the SGB. They were extremely hostile towards Cde Freddie and his uncompromising style. Cde Freddie was adamant that every school must be a Sadtu base. Eventually the school Governing Body reconciled with Cde Freddie and once again embraced him into the school but he continued his mobilisation to the chagrin of the SGB. Together with Cde Aubrey Mbelle and Cde David Hlabane continued to ensure that they do not only recognized but participated in building a strong ANC in the township spreading into eTwatwa. BETU and eventually Sadtu grew in numbers and ended up dominating as the leading and only teacher union across all the township of this part of town.

The fight to introduce non-racialism in sport in Benoni led to campaigns to introduce Benoni Schools' Sports (Bessco) Programme with Indian, Coloured and White schools participating in schools' sports across Benoni and Boksburg (Reigerpark). His extreme talent and inimitable character led to him being recruited by Dr Braam Fleish, the District Director in Benoni, Department of Education. He distinguished himself as a powerful figure as he contributed towards a better education for all in Benoni. He was instrumental in the campaign to introduce new schools in Unity and Rolihlahla Schools! He leaves a rich legacy in the fight for better schooling for all the people of Benoni.

Cde Freddie loved his wife and his family. Each and every moment he spent with his friends who called each other the “Cats” he always knew he had a home and a wife and kids. They meant everything to him. He loved his sister who he visited from time to time. Before he went to buy property in Crystalpark, he stayed with his sister in the township, and as they started speaking SeSotho sa ga Moshoeshoe, you could only watched in amazement, as they “showed off” the intricacies of that language. We learnt by hook or crook, to keep up. May his soul rest in peace and he is offering us the baton to pick it up and take it forward for all the good work that he contributed in. May his wife and son rejoice in the spirit that Cde Freddie’s death was untimely and unexpected, but in this short life he has achieved so much that many people can only envy. We wish him eternal peace in his journey to join his ancestors both from his family side but also on the side of his organisations, the ANC and SADTU.

Clive Mtshisa
Founding leader of BETU and BESSCO, SADTU Local, and former Provincial Deputy Chair SADTU GAUTENG

Farewell Cadre Freddie Mokhachane
The only certainty in our present world is rapid and accelerating change. We can either ride with the changes hoping for the best or use the changes we recognise around us to our best advantage. The most distinctive human response to any major or minor change is resistance. Individuals resist change as they fear letting go of the old, safe, routine ways of conducting their business for an unknown and unsafe territory. As humans, we prefer routines and tend to stick to our habits. Furthermore, the transition between the present state and the changed state is difficult for individuals and organisations, as it involves the ending of the current state. William Bridges (1980) discusses the process of individual change by presenting four stages that individuals must pass through to move into the transition state and effectively change: disengagement, misidentification, disorientation and disenchantment!

None of us could have predicted that today we will all go through these states of transition when we got to receive the devastating message of the passing on of our comrade, friend, brother, husband and father! Freddie Mokhachane, ntja mme, the cat, Cosatu is no more. He was boisterous, passionate, full of laughter, full of life, firm approach and uncompromising belief in all that is good. We are sadden as we dip his spear to mark our respect for a leader, a cadre, a loyal and dedicated servant of our people, isicaka esibekekileyo. He served the people in various capacity, the foot print he leaves on the ground bears testimony to that.
His comrades in the various ANC chatsites will miss his inimitable and robust style as he left no stone unturned from his strong views on the frailties of the reign of the former President Zuma, he did not spare our Mayor and demanded loyalty to the Presidency of HE President Ramaphosa. For a while during the reign of former President Zuma, he had lost all interests in politics and work of the ANC. He did not take much to be convinced and he returned to be the ANC chairperson in Crystalpark. He served with distinction and was followed by another solid Cde in Bangilizwe Solo. He unfortunately has also followed Cde Freddie and passed on the following day after the passing of Cde Freddie. It is almost as if that they wanted to accompany each as they go to join the ANC Branch in Heaven. Cde Freddie was categoric, it is either you are with us or against us. Cde Freddie, as we touched on the metaphor of the states of transition embraced unequivocally the “Thuma Mina” invocation and robustly demanded that we must all respond positively….there is one President that is HE President Ramaphosa.
He entered into teaching during a period when teachers were very conservative and feared authority. Very few teachers participated in the progressive teacher union known as NEUSA. It did not take much to recruit this former member of Sasco from Wits. He was very loud about the virtues of a free South Africa and a free Nelson Mandela. NEUSA together with the UDF and affiliates were banned and a huge gap was created. Cde Freddie in his first week at Unity Secondary was already seeking out the “leadership” and demanded action. No amount of calming him down, succeeded and with the support of the COSAS grouping we were forced into action and established the Benoni Teachers’ Union (BETU), supported by Cosatu Khetsi Lehoko.

Cde Freddie is a former member of Sasco whilst at Wits University. Immediately after he started teaching, he joined the only progressive teacher union, an affiliate of the UDF and NECC, the NEUSA. (Curtis Nkondo was President & Thulas Nxesi, the National Secretary). He joined us to form the Benoni Teachers Union after Cosas insisted that we must establish a progressive teachers Union, after the banning of the UDF & NEUSA! Cde Freddie distinguished himself as an organisor as he became the main instigator and chief recruiter for the BETU. We had strong support from Dayco, Cosas, etc. Who attended all our meeting with dangers of being arrested? BETU started strong mobilisation of the teachers and for the first time organised marches and other forms of actions like stopping visits to school by apartheid inspectors, Cde Freddie was instrumental in preventing any apartheid inspired school inspection, rejected the notion of the promotion of separate schooling. He was part of the team that confronted the police to stop harassing students and invading schools. Several meetings were held with the police and students to engage the police on their violence against students and schools. Schools became a no- going area to schools inspectors and those who were intransigent were frogmarched out of the school into their cars and pelted with eggs.

He moved from one school to the next to ensure that no Departmental official entered any of the schools. BETU in 1990 folded and closed and became Sadtu. SADTU was launched at Sharp 17 and Shepherd Mdladlane became the first President. Cde Freddie developed the nickname of "Cosatu" as he strongly campaigned to have Sadtu to become an affiliate of Cosatu. Most Sadtu members who were both PAC and Azapo teachers vehemently opposed this campaign until through Cde Freddie's strong campaigning we won over the whole of the East Rand for Sadtu to join Cosatu. This was achieved by 1991. Cde Freddie embarked on staff mobilization and came into collision course with his principal, who mobilized the parent body of the SGB against Cde Freddie. He was threaten and intimidated for mobilising on behalf of Sadtu until the leadership came to his rescue and met with management and the SGB. They were extremely hostile towards Cde Freddie and his uncompromising style. Cde Freddie was adamant that every school must be a Sadtu base. Eventually the school Governing Body reconciled with Cde Freddie and once again embraced him into the school but he continued his mobilisation to the chagrin of the SGB. Together with Cde Aubrey Mbelle and Cde David Hlabane continued to ensure that they do not only recognized but participated in building a strong ANC in the township spreading into eTwatwa. BETU and eventually Sadtu grew in numbers and ended up dominating as the leading and only teacher union across all the township of this part of town.

The fight to introduce non-racialism in sport in Benoni led to campaigns to introduce Benoni Schools' Sports (Bessco) Programme with Indian, Coloured and White schools participating in schools' sports across Benoni and Boksburg (Reigerpark). His extreme talent and inimitable character led to him being recruited by Dr Braam Fleish, the District Director in Benoni, Department of Education. He distinguished himself as a powerful figure as he contributed towards a better education for all in Benoni. He was instrumental in the campaign to introduce new schools in Unity and Rolihlahla Schools! He leaves a rich legacy in the fight for better schooling for all the people of Benoni.

Cde Freddie loved his wife and his family. Each and every moment he spent with his friends who called each other the “Cats” he always knew he had a home and a wife and kids. They meant everything to him. He loved his sister who he visited from time to time. Before he went to buy property in Crystalpark, he stayed with his sister in the township, and as they started speaking SeSotho sa ga Moshoeshoe, you could only watched in amazement, as they “showed off” the intricacies of that language. We learnt by hook or crook, to keep up. May his soul rest in peace and he is offering us the baton to pick it up and take it forward for all the good work that he contributed in. May his wife and son rejoice in the spirit that Cde Freddie’s death was untimely and unexpected, but in this short life he has achieved so much that many people can only envy. We wish him eternal peace in his journey to join his ancestors both from his family side but also on the side of his organisations, the ANC and SADTU.

Clive Mtshisa
Founding leader of BETU and BESSCO, SADTU Local, and former Provincial Deputy Chair SADTU GAUTENG

Rest in peace comrade

Ntate Mokhachane as I used to call you. What a true leader and a great teacher. Thank you for the opportunity you gave me to run two programs in the unit. You always gave us support and continued to mentor us. You never gave up on us. Sometimes I felt that you were pushing me to hard and now I realize that you were developing me. I will miss your leadership style, setshego sona ga ke sa bua. The unit will never be the same without you. You ran your race, Fare thee well. Condolences to the family in behalf of Naniki Kupa.

If I could sum Freddy up in one word, it will be Grace. He was incredibly thoughtfull in the amount of time and advice he was prepared to give. He was a rare breed of leader within the disttict office -one of a kind that was able to identify raw talent in a person and turn into an asset.

Good night my dearest leader, brother and mentor your journey has ended. Your struggle has now begun to cease. Its time to close your eyes to happy dreams and wake to eternal peace.

Good night....my Chief

Posted on behalf of Kagiso

During our many years of interaction both @ work and beyond, we learned so much from you Chief, your dedication and hard work, your firmness and friendliness, and your commitment to quality, data-driven & goal-oriented reports. How can we forget your loud laughter!
Go well Chief, till we meet again in the after life!!

I'm not sure there are enough words to describe the loss we feel from Pam's transition from our lives. She embodied the soul of an artist, never met a cat or dog she couldn't love, or a project too intimidating. She gave of her many talents to family and friends, creating sacred spaces to enjoy and kept us fed with her own special flair. Always offering encouragement, she was never known to speak a demeaning word of another.
To honor her spirit, we will carry many wonderful memories of Pam, who spread her special brand of blessing throughout our lives and try to follow the guidance she lived.
For if you knew of a woman who planted the seeds of unconditional love, caring and compassion throughout the garden of life, that would be Pam. Love you girl, Marsha and Jerry

Fare thee well dedicated comrade, compassionate brother and astute manager. In you we have lost someone who provided our organization with the much needed sense of purpose and direction, structure and discipline. Your dedicated, passionate service driven by a patriotic spirit will always be imprinted in the corridors of time. You fought like a warrior that you were for the emancipation of the black child. I will forever cherish the leadership lessons I have learned from you and much more the support I got from you during my academic studies. Go now and rest in eternal peace my leader.

I loved Freddie....for the fact that he forced me to speak my mind.,.he taught me....,,I am good enough and not a child of a lesser God.
Posted on behalf of Leni vd Westhuizen

The Education fraternity and the community at large has lost a giant. We are still in shock, disbelief and devasted by your passing Abuti as I fondly used to call you.
Even though the pain cuts deep, All is well. We firmly believe that God's timing is always perfect. He is never late or too early. His will has been done...It is finished...your mission here on earth has been accomplished. Your crown is is waiting for you on the other side...go and rece8ve your crown son of the soil.
You always believed in everyone's abilities and always encouraged us that we can achieve more. You have worked selflessly for the Education Department. We will miss your smile and your signature loud laughter...
My deepest and heartfelt condolences to the family and friends, the colleagues at Ekurhuleni North District, GDE, the Education fraternity and everyone whose life you have touched.
Your soul is now at a better place where there is no more pain or sorrow. Go and rest Abuti...'Till we meet again...Goodnight...2 Corinthians 5: 6-8

I remember visiting the Thierry house when we were kids. Pauline and Calvin were always so welcoming. We would spill out of the car and quickly be swept up in the laughter and high spirits. Running around the yard with our cousins was something we looked forward to and, of course, the food was delicious and plentiful. Wishing the entire family comfort in the days ahead. The gifts you were given have been passed down the generations, and the love of your parents is ever close. - Cousin Nancy

RIP my workplace father.. My Mentor, Leader 'Advisor I am who I am today because of your teachings n 'support. Tnx for believing in me. U left us shuttered, astonished n in pain. Will always remember yu my big Boss. Frm Treisy Masingi that's how u used to call me RIP my workplace father.. My Mentor, Leader 'Advisor I am who I am today because of your teachings n 'support. Tnx for believing in me. U left us shuttered, astonished n in pain. Will always remember yu my big Boss. Frm Treisy Masingi that's how u used to call me

RIP my workplace father, my mentor, advisor. Motivator.. Thanks for all your teachings.. I am who I am today because of yu. U left us Astonished, amazed and in pain. Gud nyt my boss will forever miss yu. Frm Treisy Masingi that's how u used to call me

You will be truly missed my brother, thank you for all the lessons you taught me and all the opportunities you gave me to grow as a leader. You were, are and always will be a blessing in my life.

https://youtu.be/ixMAuueTtSo