Thursday, February 4, 2016
I fondly remember Gerry, always laughing, with a twinkle in his eye. We haven't seen each other much at all over the long span of years since I was still a younger cousin of Mary's growing up in NJ. But whenever I'd manage to get back to NY after moving far away, it'd be a party. The Long Island aunts, uncles and cousins were a special gang and it always felt there was an abundance of love hanging out there. You were liked and welcomed and ever-so-entertainingly brought up to date on all the stories that seemed as much fun to tell as to hear. Always a good time. Last time we spoke - a nice little stretch on the phone a year or two ago, Gerry still made me feel loved and important, as we shared a bit of the tough stuff of loss and grief as his health wasn't good. Still finding meaning. Lessons learned by watching people bear much and still live well are invaluable. Gerry's fortitude and ability to laugh is part of all that I now draw upon. Much love to Mary and the kids and grandkids.
