Farewell to One of My First Crushes

[kybearfuzz]

I got home yesterday after a very long day and had another message from my mom waiting. I was thinking she was calling to let me know that she wasn't coming this weekend. With her not feeling well, I wasn't going to be surprised or disappointed.

Instead, she told me that Gary, our next door neighbor back at our old house, had passed away from a heart attack. I hated to hear that. Gary was a great guy and a very hot daddy bear. When I was a kid, I hung out with his daughter often and he was a regular presence in my childhood. He always seemed gigantic, big broad shoulders, wide furry chest, a bit of a tummy, and a thick graying walrus mustache that hid his mouth almost. Having the confusing feelings I did as a kid, I also went kinda goofy around him. I admit it I had a crush. I always enjoyed watching that burly bear mow his yard.

Years later, Gary had a stroke and found out he was diabetic. He slowly recovered, but ended up walking with a cane. I haven't seen Gary in a long while, but never heard anything bad about his health. I'm sure my mom would have let me know. I wish I could attend the services, but I'm three hours away and can't get the time off. Sigh....

Comments

Pause for thought

[arktos62.livejournal.com]

It's always sad to hear of an acquaintance, however tenuous, passing away. But I also think of these occasions as a wake-up call - a little alarm bell to remind me that life is passing and we'd better get on and live it. I'm not usually so philosophical, but your posting seems to have put me in that kind of mood. Thanks Mark.

Re: Pause for thought

[kybearfuzz.livejournal.com]

So very true :)