On Monday August 7, 2017, we Celebrated the Life of one of my favourite aunts, my Aunt Alice. Although there was the sadness of losing a special loved one, there were also lots of memories of the good times growing up.

One of her favourite hymns is also one of mine, How Great Thou Art.

Although there are other relatives, my brothers, sister & I shared extended family time with our cousins from just 2 other families.

Over the years, our 3 families have grown into adulthood, gone our separate ways, and started new families of our own. Each family unit has created its’ own traditions and its’ own connections.

This is the second time in 7 years that we have gathered to bid farewell to a family member. The last time was Wednesday, March 3, 2010 when we laid my Aunt Gwen to rest.

It is at times like this, the loss of a member of the extended family, when everyone comes together. There are tears. There is also laughter as we re-unite with one another. As with any re-union, fond memories of shared experiences are revisited and new tales are told.

It is my wish that my Uncle Ron, who has lost his wife of 62 years, as well as my cousins who have lost their mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, will find comfort in the time we had together and that they will cherish both the memories of days gone by and the newly created memories.

In Love,
Derrall

p.s. This post is an update on the one originally written for my Aunt Gwen back in March 2010.

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