Loss
Dear friends who read my blog,
It has been a while since my previous post. Many things have happened one thing in particular, which has made a significant impact on my life. Just after Christmas, my Uncle Dave passed away. This was all expected after months of seeing his illness take over and his body start to slow down.
Uncle Dave was no ordinary uncle. He was the uncle that made you laugh, give you hugs, wipe the tears from your eyes and be almost like another father to you. He was a very special person to many people. He was like a father to me. For this I am grateful. His love for me was the sweetest most pure love an uncle could have for a neice.
Uncle Dave gave me my first job at the Jewish Community Center aka JCC aka the J. It had been a home to me for about 7 years. It has been a home to him for about 10 years. He was one of the best managers I could have ever been managed by. I learned a lot from him that first year before I moved to the desk. He is loved by so many people at the JCC, it is almost overwhelming to see and feel the love they had for this one man.
There was never a day where Uncle Dave was never prepared to go to bat for me while I worked at the JCC. On occasion, I would run into problems or trouble and I knew that I could always talk to him about it and he would help me in any way he could. He was such a strong individual, where most believed that he was a very tough guy, but down deep he is one of the sweetest men I know and love.
Uncle Dave was recognized as Employee of the Year at the JCC. He humbly accepted this great honor. That night he spoke so beautifully. He talked about prayer and how he could feel the prayers of those who would pray aloud or silently. How no matter what your religion might be, he felt your love and support for him through those prayers and was so grateful for how they comforted him during his last days.
Some of my favorite moments with Uncle Dave would be when he would come by the house for lunch and enjoy a sandwhich at the “Smith’s Deli” (as I would call our kitchen). I always enjoyed hearing Dave talk about his opinion on politics or what Rush Limbaugh had to say about a certain subject, or even just chatting about whatever might be on his mind.
Uncle Dave’s funeral was beautiful. The words spoken couldn’t have been put any better. It was beautiful. His life was honored, celebrated and cherished. I love my Unkie Dave. I miss him very much, but I know that I will be able to see him again and have lunch at the Smith’s Deli.
Love you Unkie Dave.
