Crinkled Oranges

Wednesday, April 12, 2017

We've been feeling

very sad every since we got the phone call telling us that Gary's cousin, Paul, died yesterday.  He was working in the yard, fell, and hit his head on the curb.   We don't know if he had an episode (stroke or heart attack) that made him fall or if he died from the head injury.   Paul was always so personable, friendly, funny, and interested in everyone.  He always took great interest in our family and was so supportive.

Gary is actually a "double cousin" with Paul and his siblings (Mel, Norma Jean, and Clyde).  Afton (his mom) and Norma (Paul's mom) married two brothers, Jess (Gary's dad) and Frank (Paul's dad).  You see a lot of family resemblance with the "double cousin" grandchildren and great grandchildren from both families.

John Thomas and Elnora Ashton Family
4th in on back row are Afton, Jess, Norma, and Frank (the tall one)
Gary is the Baby on his Grandpa's lap.
Paul is second in from the left, sitting on chair.
I ran into Paul's sister at Days Market this evening.  She told me that she had been working on a quilt for Paul for about 5 years, but had set it aside and had a hard time finishing it.  She finally forced herself to finish it and took it to him for his birthday 5 weeks ago.  He owned Edgemont Service, and the quilt has cars, a gas station, and roads on it. She said he was so pleased with it, and she'll always remember him standing at the door waving goodbye to her.

That is an example of one of those times where you will always be grateful you followed through with something you've been wanting or been nudged to do.   I've had several experiences like that. But, I've also had some experiences where I've felt great regret because I haven't followed through with something.

Lots of lessons to be learned.





1 comment:

Tiffany said...

Oh no, that is so sad. I have so many fond memories of Paul. Always kind, fun, smiling and liked to heckle (sp?) the 4th of July parade participants! So heartbreaking for his family. I will pray for them.