To My Family
To my dearest sister and brothers,
I want you to know that writing about Richard has been an exceedingly difficult task for me . Richard was my “Shithard” (as a young child--I could not pronounce “Richard”.)
On our last day together at the Jewish General, I called you my big brother-- my Shithard. I cried in your arms as I knew it was going to be the last time I would see you. You replied…it’s ok Michael..it’s ok. I know , Richard, you knew it was going to be the last time I would see you.
Later that afternoon, while in the room, when Barb, and Lynda was there…Lynda asked , tell me a story of when you were young…first memories. I told the story, of when we watched the Frankenstein movie together. I was young and very scared. My big brother watched the movie together that night. I think I was around 6 or 7. My big brother- wrapped his arms around me—he was my protector.
Living down stairs…I can remember another memory. Richard introduced me to “steamie” hot dogs. Richard’s first car was a Ford –Console. Richard would tinker under the hood for a while. Then ,he would declare, everything is fine. Let’s go to Chez Ma Tante on Fleury! Off we would go to share time together. Richard would place the order and say..”this is my kid brother”. To this day , I still enjoy “steamies”.
Another memory –flashes in my head. Sly and the Family Stone were coming to the Montreal Forum. This was in the early 70’s. Richard picked up 3 tickets. Elaine, Richard, and I were off to see the show. I think the ticket price was around $5 each. Richard the big spender was treating his siblings. It was the 1st time Elaine and I were at a concert. We “groved” that night. We clapped, moved to the music. It was an incredible night. Later on the way home we stopped for donuts. We continued to laugh…it seemed like a magical time. What a wonderful memory—to this day when I hear a tune from this group my mind flashes back to that amazing memory-what we had together.
I left Montreal in the late 70’s. Time home was often…but our shared family times were not as frequent. But of course, special occasions like Christmas and anniversaries—we did reconnect. I remember Richard asking me to help him with the new floor install for his basement. Ok I said, but on one condition. Let Lynda take Barb out while we do the install. And that is what happened. That afternoon, you and I installed that floor. We laughed and talked and got the job done. And we often admired our work years later!
You know, for all of us, there are a thousand memories in our minds and hearts. All so endearing and special. A few I have mentioned, many will be re-visited in mind for ever. Love you Richard you will always be my “big brother”. Xoxo Michael