Pops died a year ago today. Lets have a glass of wine, a swim in the ocean, a political debate, or a bite of cheese in his honour. Or just tell someone to f-off.

For those who were at the service on September 12th, 2015, below is the poem I recited. There are no words to surmise a man, but we try as best we can to seal his memory with love and tribute.

--

Our father who art in heaven
Sings the song of every bird
Fills the moss on every stone
Lends his hand from every tree.

The sun kisses our skin
And we are reminded
The wind pushes our boat
And we grow kinder
Thoughts alive of
Such a man, so dear he was,
To this kindred land.

That now with every rounded corner
There comes another stone turned over
Where Popplins Rogers could have walked
And may have, sure, why not…

His stories were not far between
His want for ‘venture could not be beat
His criticism was for himself
His bar was set so high, indeed.

My brothers from another mother
I now know better, its thanks to you.
My sister from a priceless mother
Has a very high IQ – it’s true.

And when it comes to Ted
He was another kind of bread
Not one before him like him
Not one again shall come.

I like to think he’s dead
With a knowing smile on his head
Catacombed amongst his books
With Nietsze in his Venetian bed.

His death is a reminder
to be wary of your head
And body, treat them kind,
So down the line, as best down we can wind.

Melancholy cast your net
Away from our clear waters
Anxiety you can relieve
With willing meditation.

We breathe deeply to comply
With the reason that God made us,
To his faithful memory, we breathe relief,
Our grieving a final masterpiece.

To fill our bodies
And our minds
With peaceful grace of
Inner tides

My wax and wane
Will not depart
Emotions run deep and quiet
in my heart

Like my father,
now behind the vault -
There is an art to silence.

I always enjoyed Ted's witty contributions -- even his jibes! Ted was actually the first member of Felix's family whom I met--years ago, in Montreal. He was such a handsome young man--quite stunning! Later, over the years, I got to know him as a generous and welcoming host during the numerous times I stayed in Vancouver. And as a loving (if not overly demonstrative--a family trademark!) husband and dad. For some reason, I remember particularly well one very rainy evening when we met for dinner at a restaurant during Alex's hockey tournament in Port Coquitlam. Jane was pregnant with Liz at the time. I so much enjoyed that night. The years went by, the kids grew up, and we all got older. Ted, Jane, and Kathryn came to Edmonton for Felix's 85th birthday two years ago. That was the last time we all had a really good time together.

I will remember my Dad's inquisitive nature, his sincere interest in learning about people from all cultures, his dedication to family, and his profound love for BC.

My Dad made an impression on everyone with whom he came in contact. He taught me to be honest and fair, and to value decency and integrity above all else.

I am lucky to have had a father who I could rely on for his intense store of knowledge, and I am grateful that I was shown the value of education - irrespective of the means through which gained - and travel.

I would like to extend my thanks to the people who have supported my family and I throughout Dad's illness. I hope we can all derive some learning from his passing and be better for knowing and caring for Dad.

Finally, I would include these words in honour of my Dad, which I think he would have enjoyed:

If, after I depart this vale, you ever remember me and have thought to please my ghost, forgive some sinner and wink your eye at some homely girl. - epitaph by HL Mencken

Memories I have of Ted are he was a character and very funny. He had a true way to tell a story. I will miss him.

Jane, Kathryn, Liz, Bob, and Richard -

I was very sad to hear the news of Ted's passing and sorry that I was out of town during the service. I have many fond memories of Ted beginning with the first time I met him in Expo 1986 when he picked us up in his convertible (which i was so excited to ride in!). I vividly remember his wit and sense of humour which always made me laugh. In fact, he always reminded me of David Letterman! Ted and my dad always shared an interesting friendship which withheld the test of time. I always appreciated his generosity and company. He will be missed. My thoughts are with you during this time.

Alex

Ted was a wonderful uncle and godfather to me. He was an interesting person who was interested in so many things and knowledgeable in so much. He will be missed