Saying Goodbye to Uncle Peter

It has been a rough couple of weeks. My Uncle (my Mom's brother), who lived just 30 miles from us, passed away due to lung and liver cancer. Fortunately, my parents arrived to see him before he died. They were able to stay and help my cousins out with all of the things that have to be done when someone dies.

The funeral was this past Monday. This was the first funeral for a close family member that I have ever been to. It was of course a very sad occasion. We sang a couple of hymns that referenced the outdoors and farming, since my Uncle spent many years as a farmer. One of his boys read a short memorial that they had written for him. This was the most touching part of the service for me. I couldn't help thinking what it would be like for me to be up there talking about my dad.

It was strange seeing all of my English family. Some were relations that I had never met before; others had not seen me since I was five years old. Meeting all of these family members gave me the feeling of being a small part of many generations. I could see or sense little bits and pieces of myself in these people that I had never really met before.

My Uncle Peter was a kind man. He loved dogs, horses, and football. I am glad I got to visit with him over this last year. He will be missed...

JE