Yesterday a dear family friend passed away. He was 81 years old, and leaves behind a wife, 7 children (1 predeceased), and 12 grandchildren.Harold and his wife lived next door to my family home since we moved to the Island 27 years ago. It wasn't until very recently that they sold their house and Harold entered a home when his wife could no longer take care of him on her own. His health had been failing for quite some time...and from what I understand, the last while has been pretty bad, so perhaps it's a blessing in disguise for the family. Regardless, it's a very sad loss...and he will be so missed by so many people.
He was the kindest, gentlest man. He always had a smile, wave and a, "How are ya?", each time he saw you pass by. He and Dad were very good friends. They would spend hours sitting out by the old tree stump in the backyard, chatting. Dad would make him a tall glass of lemonade to serve as a break from cutting the two lawns (he had a ride-on mower so would cut both his and ours). I still remember the look of sadness on his face and the strength of his hug when he found out Dad had passed away. My uncle saw Harold sitting on his front step shortly thereafter, looking sad - like he'd lost his best friend. He had.
At this sad time I take comfort in the fact that Harold and Dad are now reunited, possibly sipping on a tall glass of lemonade together, reminiscing about the old times. Rest in peace, Harold.
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