My precious MOM, I miss you more than words can say. You were my best friend just as I was Randi's. All my life you have been there for me.
You were visiting from Chicago when my husband Marshall left me and our children Randi, 7, and Ron, 3
You came to Buffalo to help out when the children were born and when I underwent surgery. You gave me money to buy a car when the terrible diesel i drove was beyond repair. You helped me pay my bills when i was broke and helped pay for my new roof,when the old run leaked into buckets.
We shared many good times together seeing movies, eating at Benihana, D Z Akins and the Olive Garden. We had so many jokes like the one about the size of D Z Akins balls (cabbage rolls). You always said to fill the bowl up when ordering soup and "lean and meaty" for ribs.
Once when you were visiting I kissed your cheek over and over in our parked car. The man in the car next to us stared and stared at us. When we got out of the car, you told him, "That's ok. She'said my daughter!" At movie theaters you bought me senior tickets--before I was so senior.
In San Diego we shared our cooked food. You made me blitzes, salmon patties and kuggles. I made you brisket, Turkey, matzo ball soup and spaghetti. You and I enjoyed dinners at my house, especially playing with your great grandchildren Claire and Dustin. You liked my husband Phil and remarked about how handsome he is. You often asked if I was happy, if he treated me well, and if I was glad I married him. The answer was always yes.
So often your life was difficult, like when you lost your sight and had difficulty walking but you always had a smile and lots of love to give.
People always remarked about your kindness, your interest in others, and your young appearance. An aide at Grossmont Gardens sang your favorite song for you, "Yesterday." We joked about finding a boyfriend "with a heartbeat and a car!"
We also suffered through the loss of our family, your children Rita, Ilene, Nathan, our dad, and all your brothers and sisters. I hope you, Randi and Rita are especially together in heaven. You were my role model and live forever in me. I am so grateful for the years you gave me, although they were difficult for you.
I am hoping to know that you and Randi are with me and watching over me. I know we will be together again someday, my YiddishaMama.
Love.now and forever, Your daughter Nancy