Tonight, after unpacking from our trip down to Mountain Lake, we found our some terrible and shocking news. Our neighbor, Chub, passed away last night. I don’t know any of the details yet. As I was busy putting things away in the kitchen one of his daughters came over to tell Tim, who was setting the grill back up in the yard. I could tell something was wrong as soon as I saw his face.
The news hit me hard. I cried and cried.
Just yesterday morning we had a wonderful “neighborly chat” about our lawns, and flowers, and the weather. He was always so friendly and made a point to say hi to Dende & Chloe. He even picked and gave these flowers to Chloe from his garden. Before we walked away Chloe gave him a high five.
It may seem strange to you that I’m taking the death of a neighbor so hard, but he was more than just that to me. He was the first person I met when we moved in 6 years ago. But more importantly he was my security blanket. He was like the grandpa next door–I always knew he was there to help me if I needed something, or if I was in trouble. As a woman home alone long days, I cherished the thought that he was near. And even though I never did go running to him for help, it was comforting to know that I could.
I could also always ask him about flowers. His gardens are always so full and beautiful. He even shared some of his “snow in the mountain” & hosta plants with me last year that I now have growing in the front of our house. He was the one that inspired me to plant clematis climbing vines since his were always so stunning.
Many of my tears also fell out of the pain I know his family must be going through. It tugs at my heart knowing first hand the pain of loosing a loved one. I don’t know any more details, but it wouldn’t change the sorrow that I feel. If you think of it, please say a prayer for his family.
That’s really sad. I’ll be praying for them.
Another reminder of how fragile life is. I’m sorry, Erica.
I can tell he meant a lot to you, Erica. We sometimes don’t know who those people are until we lose them. I’m very thankful that you were able to have him as a friend for the time that you did. I’m sure he enjoyed your friendship, too. I’ll pray for his family and for you, as well.
Love,
Mom
I am very sorry to hear this. I am glad that you have such a wonderful memory to keep of a lovely person. I will be thinking and praying for you and his loved ones.