I normally don’t share things of this nature but I feel there are some
lessons to be learned here.
Garry had been in my life since I was 11. He wasn’t always the nicest guy but he certainly helped to shape me into the man that I am today.
Over the years we had some good times and bad. Thankfully I took a step back in 2010 and reconnected with my family which included some bonding time with him.
We had our differences over the years and I never let him forget that,
but I also made sure he knew what an impact he had on my life.
The last time I saw him in person was April 19th, 2012. We had dinner
with my Mom. I got to share with him all the great things that were
(are) happening in my life.
I missed calling him on fathers day, but I just happened to be in San
Clemente, CA that day and was certainly thinking of him. He had been a
frequent visitor there for over 20 years.
The last time I spoke with him was June 24th, 2012. We played phone
tag a little that day but finally connected.
He was full of life and happy to hear from me. But more than that he
had his freedom and a good outlook. He lived by himself and managed
his life however he saw fit. I learned that he had met some new
friends and he was excited to get some projects done around his home.
I had a smile on my face the entire 24 minute (yes I just looked that
up) phone call. Garry was enjoying the zest that life has to offer.
His passing was quick and if there was any suffering it was minimal.
He had spent the last few months reminding me and others that he cared
about us, and letting folks know how to handle his affairs if
something should happen. He knew … and I heard him loud and clear.
Life is not forever, and it has no guarantees. You have heard this all
before I am certain. You just don’t really listen to (hear it) until
it hits close to home.
If I were to pass tomorrow I have no regrets. I have lived, YES I have
fucking lived! Further I love my life exactly how it currently is.
Death shouldn’t bring sorrow, it should bring the realization that you
should pay hommage to what you are and what you really have (certainly
not material).
Take it all in, and live fully,
Bobby
I’m sorry to hear that Garry has passed on, for you will miss him. But what great news to know that you had reconnected and enjoyed a recent relationship. We really can’t ask for any more out of life, now can we? People, and life, is to be cherished while we are here.
Lynette
Sorry for your loss, but thank you for sharing. I totally agree with the sentiments to live life to its fullest. I’ll try to remember to practice that today.
Bobby,
We are so sorry to hear about the passing away of your Dad. As you know, life works in ways that we don’t always understand, or appreciate at the time. How blessed you are that you did reconnect with your family, and know you had a peace between you and your Dad. Having no regrets is such a peace within.
What you wrote was beautiful. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Always,
Donna and Bob
Thanks, Bobby. Garry and I were friends for 47 years. I loved him very much. We met in the Air Force in 1965. I last saw Garry at his house on April 20, 2011, five days before my wife and I moved to North Carolina. Rose, my wife, and I loved Garry and your mom a lot. We were saddened to hear about the divorce. However, I know that Garry and Sue still loved each other. Rose and I got to know you and Penny too. I know that Garry was proud of both of you. It’s good to hear that you got reconnected with Garry. I know that he cared a lot for you. Garry and I had a lot of good times together over the years. He was my best friend. Rose and I will miss him a lot. I talked to him on the phone the weekend before the 4th of July. Please say Hi to Sue and Penny.