My favorite Uncle, and really the only uncle that we have stayed in contact with over the years, recently passed. Uncle Harry has been dealing with dementia for about 7 years and also had an aortic aneurysm, among other health issues. Considering all his problems, he managed to always have a great and positive outlook on life and always had a great smile on his face. As the years passed, it was very subtle that at family events he was failing since my aunt took amazing care of him and doted over him to make certain he was always OK. I know what a difficult time it can be to care for someone who you know mentally you are losing as the years pass. Uncle Harry managed to remember each and every family member until the very end. It was remarkable how he chatted along with everyone at a yearly BBQ and again on every holiday. Recently, I noticed he grew quieter but managed to smile and answer every question when spoken too. I was saddened by this and know each one of us was touched by his smile and easy conversation. Good memories will follow us for now and I know we will all share his stories of how he touched each of us at family events in the near future. Salute to my Aunt for the hard times she had caring for him and goodbye to Uncle Harry. You taught me to play all kinds of card games, chess, and how to crack sunflower seeds- all the important things in life. I look forward to hear what he chatted with everyone else about. He always complimented me as well, whether he meant it or not, I took it and loved it coming from him. Goodbye and enjoy your perfect life in Heaven.
