Brenda
On June 21st, while we would normally be celebrating our dating anniversary, I woke up to the difficult news from my dad to hear that Brenda had died earlier that morning.
My dad and Brenda have been together for more than 23 years! If she wanted to paint or craft something, he would cut the wood for her, if they were gardening, they were both out in the yard. They were a team.
This past year her health went down slightly before Christmas and significantly since then. The last six months I have seen my dad transform from working full time at his business to caring full time for Brenda. Multiple hospital visits, doctors appointments and routine things to help her throughout her day. The last three months, her weight significantly dropped, her legs grew weary, and her speech was difficult. Her body was slowing down until this day when she was calm enough to peacefully go at home where she felt the most comfort.
I spent a few days with my dad right after just so he wouldn't be alone. There was planning for a beautiful celebration of life that was fully attended at Parkview Gardens in Listowel with beautiful flowers, decorations, and lovely words spoken. Every seat filled. She knew many people in town from her career as a server, and I was happy to see all that were there to support my dad. I am sure the lonely days are coming, and different forms of grief will creep in, but I am happy to know how well loved they were as a couple and how much support my dad will have in Listowel as he navigates the first year. He has a new chapter to write. She will be missed.