My earliest memories go back to Rainier street in Toronto. Sunday mornings, breakfast after communion...You giving Uncle John polish sausage with candles for his birthday. And then... LA, 1960 when I was 15 and pregnant, when Terri met her John at the church dance. You were so kind and loving, only worried that Uncle John might find out and get upset (more nervous with Terri).I so envied Terri having you for a mum... Having you all as family.Fast forward to 1970 when Bob and I came to visit and my Rob fell in the pool. Uncle John had such a fit - he was such a worry wart. In 1986 when you went to visit Dennis in Geilenkirchen, we were fortunate to have you visit us - I learned to make chicken soup from Uncle John. I remember all the tinned food you took with you to visit Uncle John's relatives in Slovakia because Chernobyl had just happend. Uncle John having borrowed our car worried about parking under a tree that 'leaked' some kind of sap. Thought it was his responsibilty to keep the car (ultra) clean.
In 1989 again a visit, this time with Pieter to Oceanside. My running gear was not such a success. You worried all the old codgers might get a heart attack :) ...2001 and mum's 80th. Thank you so much for making the journey. Your presence made it so very special for all of us - in spite of mum not speaking to you for throwing an apricot pit in the garden - "we (white man) don't do that kind of thing here" :). It was so nice to reconnect. But most of all I would like to thank you for the last six years. I am just sorry visiting again wasn't an option.Since mum's passing I have gotten a great deal of solace from our telephone calls. I will most certainly miss your cheerful, "Hi Hon"...I did so enjoy talking with you. I will miss you greatly. Thank you for being my Aunt Winifred...
Love always, Joan