My uncle passed away yesterday. He’s been sick for nearly a year, but it was still hard to hear. He’s actually my Aunt’s third husband, but they have been together for probably 27 years. And he’s the only Great Uncle that Hannah remembers.
They have a lake house at Smith Mountain Lake in Roanoke, Virginia. Their main home is in Richmond, so the other day my uncle said “I want to go to the lake.” Hospice wasn’t even sure he’d make the three and a half hour drive. But he made it! It was his favorite place to be.
It’s funny because when Tony first met Dave I told him “my uncle was a warden in a prison.” He expected his demeanor to be like Wilfred Brimley. Dave was nothing like that – he walked into the restaurant when they first met, went right to Tony and kissed him on the cheek! He was bigger than life – let’s just say the room lit up when he entered it.
I’ve spent many many summers at the lake house. One of our favorite things to do is to put life jackets on and just float.
Hannah had a special connection with Dave, whom she called Papa. She became his right hand man when she visited and would help Dave with the chores. It broke my heart to tell her yesterday that he had passed away. 🙁
And I will always remember Dave as the captain of the boat!
The lake house just won’t be the same without him. I am just hoping he found my Dad and they are splitting a Dr. Pepper. 😀
This is one of the plaques that’s on the porch at the lake house – I know my Uncle Dave did!
He wasn’t overly religious, so there will be no typical funeral. I’ll find out today what the plans are and most likely will be in Richmond next weekend. I probably won’t post again until Monday – I hope you all have a great weekend and give your family an extra hug this weekend! 😀
I am so sorry to hear about your Uncle. It is always difficult to lose a family member.
You are in my thoughts and prayers. 🙂
So sorry to hear about your Uncle. I’m glad he made it to the lake!
My heart is with you all
What a sweet, positive post. Be safe in your travels.
What a beautiful tribute to your Uncle Dave, Vat. He was obviously a very special man, and you and your whole family are in my thoughts. How lovely that he passed away in his favorite place. Take care, sending hugs.
So sorry biz….you are in my thoughts and prayers.
I’m so sorry Biz, I just lost a dear friend too and I know how hard it can be. I’m glad he could be in his favorite place. Hugs!
I’m sending love and prayers to you and your family.
I’m so sorry, Biz, and you were just telling me about floating on the lake! Death is always a shock, even when you expect it. It’s heartening to know he went to his favorite place on Earth before passing from it. <3
Biz, I am so very sorry to hear about your uncle. It’s great he made it to his favorite place before he went, it looks beautiful there.
What a lovely tribute to a sweet man – I’m so sorry for your loss.
So sorry to hear about your uncle. I remember you telling me about his place at Smith Mountain Lake–one of my favorite places.
Best,
Bonnie
Oh Biz I’m sorry for your loss! I was wondering why you had your post up late. It’s amazing that he got to the lake. ::hugs::
Sorry for your loss, I love that he made it to the lake!
This is a wonderful tribute to your Uncle Dave, I’m glad he made it to the lake. It looks like a beautiful place and I can understand why he wanted to go there. Will keep you, Hannah and your family in my prayers.
I’m so sorry, Biz. Your uncle sounds like a wonderful man. Your words about him are beautiful. Thinking of you and your family.
I’m so very sorry to hear this. A special hugg to u and your family. Especially Hannah. I’ve been reading your blog for a very long time and have always wanted to comment but never did. Today I had to. Take care and take all the time you need to grieve. Meanwhile I will be praying for you and your family. – patty
So sorry to hear about your loss Biz. How wonderful that Dave made it to the lake. This is just a lovely tribute to him.
That gave me chills – So glad he made it to the lake. I know that part of Virginia and can see why he’d want to spend his final moments there. Wishing you and your family the best. <3
Sincere condolences to you and the family. Sounds like you have wonderful memories. RIP “Uncle Dave.”