We knew it was coming. For a year he battled bravely with lung cancer. Strong to the end, always thinking of how to take the burden from his family before his own needs.
I will always remember my Uncle Rod as one of the best role models and men I have ever known. The last time I saw him, was in June. I brought my boyfriend Jeff over with me to meet my Uncle Rod and my aunt Judi. It makes me smile to remember them talking. One man I respected so highly, chatting with another of the most important men in my life.
Fishing on Lake Ontario. The Symphony of Fire. Camping at Greystoke. Summers at their house. Their home was always full of people and laughter.
I got the news Monday afternoon. For a month I had been getting updates by email from Judi on how Rod was doing. He had been in the hospital more frequently... so I suppose she felt it important to keep the family informed. I had made it a habit to wait to the end of the school day to read my mail, until I was at home and could digest the news I got privately and share it with my mother.
