Sunday, November 28, 2010
Dear Elwin and Laurie; Morris and Deb and Keith and Marilee:
My mother (Lenora Churcher, widow of Walter Robert Churcher) and I were both so sorry to hear the sad news about the passing of your dear Mum. Please accept our sincerest condolences.
What an amazing and gracious woman Aunty May was - her talents as a wife, mother, sister, daughter, nurse, aunt, grandmother seemed boundless. Aunt May's huge capacity for love and kindness touched my life deeply and I'm sure the lives of countless other people as well. She'll undoubtedly be missed by you, family and many, many others.
Growing up without family for ten years in England wasn't easy, but the steady stream of letters throughout the year and gifts to we children at Christmas time made family 'real'. Aunty May was one of those thougtful relatives who consistently took the time to send presents and birthday greetings. Despite the lengthy and distant separation, we were never forgotten- these thoughtful gestures made a life-long impression on me.
Moving forward to the present - I know the last little while couldn't have been easy for your Mum - she was so fragile. I take comfort by the fact that she's now at rest with your Dad, Uncle Harvey, her parents and other beloved family members who've paved the way before her. I expect she's already making everyone smile and laugh in her new home!
Although I never lived closeby Aunt May, I felt a closeness of spirit that warmed my hearth. I will forever cherish the memorable times we did spend together and her many letters written to me during the last 35 years or so. I've kept them all.
We'll be thinking of you all on Monday and in the weeks and months to come.
With sincerest best wishes,
Cousin Dar and Aunt Len
Victoria, B.C.
