Friday, January 12, 2024
/public-file/2822/Ultra/Image_jpg.jpg
/public-file/2823/Ultra/Image_jpg.jpg
/public-file/2824/Ultra/Image_jpg.jpg
/public-file/2825/Ultra/Image_jpg.jpg
+ 6
Gregory,
You are my closest cousin as we were born two months apart. We were like siblings when growing up on Clarence Street, in Corner brook, NF where both of our families lived in the same house. Every Christmas, Easter, and birthday, we were always together.
We did everything together as kids; we played together in the woods, behind the church and behind the school and we wouldn't come in until it was time for bed. We went camping together every weekend with our parents. There was always a crowd of us, and our parents didn't have to worry because we kept ourselves busy swimming, riding bikes, playing marbles, and jumping rope. I’ll always remember how much fun we had as kids, and how your laugh was from the gut, it was so contagious. We were the best of friends.
We were separated at age 12 when we moved to Fort Mc Murray in 1979. 10 years later you joined us when you came to Alberta and worked at the Brick Warehouse. We again came best friends and our favorite hang-out was Diggers as it was the spot to be in the 80’s. The laughs continued as we played cards on the weekends with John Boy and Vinny. I recall one night when we ran out of beer and sent Johnny Boy on a bicycle to get more. When he finally returned, he was exhaust and dirty after he wiped out on the bike but saved the beer. It wasn't until the next morning when you tried to use the bike but realized the front wheel was so warped that you couldn't even push it. We laughed so much when realizing how Johnny Boy must have worked like a dog to get the beer to us. During your time in Fort McMurray, you acquired the love of playing darts, and Uncle Gord was always ready to show you how it was done.
It wasn’t long before the miles separated us again as newfoundland called you back home. Even though you were on the other side of the of the country, you were always close in my heart. The years went on you got married and started a family. Our families were reunited once again when you moved to Jasper for work. Our children had the opportunity to play together, as we once did. It was wonderful to have you close again.
As the children grew, and we got older, life got busy. It was harder to stay in touch, but you were always in my heart. At Christmas 2021, you came for the holidays, and it was like the years apart had never happened. Your laughter and jokes never ceased. You stayed for a while to work on your health issues. Even though you were ill, you never complained. Your outlook was always optimistic as you made light of things, and continued life as normal.
I will always remember the hot summer days we spent together on the patio drinking margaritas and Caesars. Oh, how you enjoyed the sun on your face while the rest of your body was covered with your Maple Leaf’s blanket. I will never forget your amazing ability to turn every situation into something hilarious. I'm so glad I got to spend one more Christmas, Easter, and birthday with you. You will always be in my heart. Until we met again, in heaven.
Love, your cousin Michele.