Raymond Walsh 1932-2008
On June 29, at home surrounded by friends and family, my grandfather passed away after a brief illness.
Fortunately, in an unusual moment of internet connectivity in Xi’an, I was able to log onto Skype…sitting in the cold corridor outside of a closed bar, I talked to him one last time. Being the man he was, even in this situation he had me laughing as we said goodbye.
His name was Raymond Walsh…
...and he was very much loved.
The man who taught me how to dance…
...who gave me all the pralines, chocolates and the fruits from his ice cream…
...who taught me how to throw a punch in kindergarten under the suspicion that little boys might try to steal a kiss…
...who was still giving me stuffed animals even after I was legally old enough to drink…
...my grandpa. There will never be anyone like him in the world again.
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Erin,
I’m sorry to hear about your loss. The death of a loved one is never easy to bear, especially when you are (literally) a world away. But give thanks for the wonderful memories, and the chance to speak to him one last time. Even though people we love leave, they are never really gone from us. They remain as part of the fabric of who we are, and we carry them with us always. I’m sure you made him very very proud.
Tricia –
Thank you so much for your kind words and thoughts. I really appreciate it. And you’re very right – there are many ways he’ll always be with me. :) Thank you.
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