April 24, 2017Let this not be farewell but au revoir…

Author: Josée Bergeron









I have started and restarted this blog post many times. It seems so easy to share about life’s successes and celebrations, but death and dying not so much. In the last four months we experienced the sudden illness and loss of my father-in-law. This wonderful man shared his zest for life with all those around him. He was so generous with his time and resources, but most importantly with his love. He passed away on April 4th, taken by an aggressive cancer, and one of the last things he said to me, as we hugged, was “I love you”.

Sometimes death doesn’t make sense, doesn’t seem fair or right. This sentiment was shared over and over by countless people during my father-in-law’s funeral. Teary eyes were filled with “why?”. The mystery of death will forever elude us, until it is our own time…

Journeying with my father-in-law over the last months of his life was a beautiful and difficult experience. He was not afraid of death and found solace in his Catholic faith, continuing to share his love until the end. But this beautiful strong man was very human and he experienced great sadness knowing that he was leaving behind his beautiful wife, children, many grandchildren, siblings and a community of close friends.

The final conversations we held, the tears in his eyes, holding his grandchildren for the last times will be forever etched in my heart. And now that his tears are forever wiped away, mine will flow freely, coming at unexpected times as my heart misses him. To a Loving Man, Son, Brother, Husband, Father, Grandfather and Friend. I love you.

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5 Comments

  1. Brenda and Bill

    Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. It is a true comfort that we can thank God for His great hope of eternal life with Him when we have placed our faith in the promises His Son Jesus bought with His sacrifice for those who believe in Him and trust Him in all things. May your family find comfort in the Great Comfoter who walks with us when we sorrow.

    Reply
  2. Janelle Bellerive

    Such a beautiful post. Sending my love to you all. xo

    Reply
  3. Rachelle Bergeron

    Allô la belle Josée. Thank you for your beautiful pictures and words. It does capture that mixture of love and grief so well. Gerald was a beautiful person and he has a beautiful family. Please share my love with Jérémie and the kics. I really hope to see soon.
    Much love,

    Reply
  4. Trish

    Condolences to you and your family. May your beautfiful memories bring you all peace.

    Reply
  5. Elianne

    Well said Josée, Gerald was a very special brother, father, husband, grand-papa and friend! We miss him so much, love you guys very much ????

    Reply

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