We had neighbors who lived up the road much of the time I was growing up, and they sent a letter of sympathy when they got the news (which I sent them) that Mom and Dad had passed away. I'm quoting the letter because they also sent memories (although I am omitting the contact info that they gave me, since this is a public post :). I wasn't there for the one and I don't recall the other, but they both made me smile.
I wonder whether that's the party where he lost his wallet, which was at the vineyard and the same year (in September). It seems likely, except the descriptions don't seem to fit (although neither is very detailed; they could be the same party). I will never know for sure, I suppose, but this is a sweet memory; I can envision Dad there, having a good time and pointing out constellations.
Dear Laura,
We were so sorry to learn of your parents' deaths. We hope the loving memories of happy times shared will ease your sadness and keep them with you always.
You asked for our memories. One recent memory (2003) is of spending a beautiful late summer evening with your father and Milt and Irene Simmons at Harry Peterson-Nedry's annual "vineyard" party for friends and neighbors. We all strolled to the vineyard together, talking and laughing. As we sipped wine and munched our way through many hotdogs and chips, your father pointed out certain star constellations. Altogether, your father seemed very much to enjoy himself throughout the evening...and we enjoyed very much his company. We will always remember that evening fondly.
George has a special memory of you, Laura, when you were about six or seven years old. You may recall that you often tagged along behind Andrea--who was a few years older--while she was working with one of her ponies or horses. George remembers telling you that since your folks had a nice pasture, you should ask them to get you a pony. You responded, "Oh, can’t do that...I'm allergic to the damn things!"
Your folks were very good people and good neighbors...and we know you will miss them very much. Please accept our sincere condolences, and really, do not hesitate to call on us if we can ever be of any help to you.
In sympathy,
...
I wonder whether that's the party where he lost his wallet, which was at the vineyard and the same year (in September). It seems likely, except the descriptions don't seem to fit (although neither is very detailed; they could be the same party). I will never know for sure, I suppose, but this is a sweet memory; I can envision Dad there, having a good time and pointing out constellations.
Dear Laura,
We were so sorry to learn of your parents' deaths. We hope the loving memories of happy times shared will ease your sadness and keep them with you always.
You asked for our memories. One recent memory (2003) is of spending a beautiful late summer evening with your father and Milt and Irene Simmons at Harry Peterson-Nedry's annual "vineyard" party for friends and neighbors. We all strolled to the vineyard together, talking and laughing. As we sipped wine and munched our way through many hotdogs and chips, your father pointed out certain star constellations. Altogether, your father seemed very much to enjoy himself throughout the evening...and we enjoyed very much his company. We will always remember that evening fondly.
George has a special memory of you, Laura, when you were about six or seven years old. You may recall that you often tagged along behind Andrea--who was a few years older--while she was working with one of her ponies or horses. George remembers telling you that since your folks had a nice pasture, you should ask them to get you a pony. You responded, "Oh, can’t do that...I'm allergic to the damn things!"
Your folks were very good people and good neighbors...and we know you will miss them very much. Please accept our sincere condolences, and really, do not hesitate to call on us if we can ever be of any help to you.
In sympathy,
...
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