Sunday, February 24, 2008

remembering my uncle

My prayers go out to my Aunt Gloria, who lost her beloved husband of 20-something years, Bruce, on Wednesday. This photo was taken when we stayed with them for a night on our California trip last May. I remember it as being such a relaxing, peaceful stay, and that was due a lot to what a good couple Gloria and Bruce were. She told me on the phone last night that her marriage to him was by far the happiest time of her life. They loved to travel and have been all over the world. They would have gone to Hawaii next month to celebrate their anniversary.

I didn't know Bruce's health had been failing, so I was completely taken off guard when my dad called me last night with the news. (Strangely, my dad's Aunt Dottie, whom I never knew, also died this week, and he heard about both deaths within the same hour.) Bruce had diabetes and heart problems, and things had gotten worse in the past few weeks. A week before he died, Gloria told me, she went outside and prayed before bed, like she always does, asking God to give her a little more time with him. Tuesday night, she thanked God for that time and told him she was ready if he needed to take Bruce. She went upstairs, and Bruce, lying in bed with a catheter in him, held her in a hug for an especially long time. The next morning, he was gone. He died in his sleep, peacefully. Gloria said it was a blessing that he did not have to suffer or go to a hospital and that she is so happy about that. Still, his loss is terribly sad, and I know she will be grieving for a very long time.

Gloria, I know you read this blog, so you know that Steve and I send our love to you and your family. As you said, there is no doubt that Bruce is in heaven right now, and I am certain he will be near you always.

8 comments:

Anonymous said...

Yes, I learned about Bruce last night too. I was at the laundromat when Dad called. My prayers are going out to Gloria, and to Bruce's children.

I didn't realize what faith in God Gloria has. I think it's something she developed within the last ten years or so. What a touching account of the last week she had with Bruce, as you said in this post, Em. I plan to call her today.

Soupy said...

Oh, I am so sorry. My prayers are with you and your family right now. May your Uncle Bruce be at peace.

Marketing Mama said...

I'm sorry for your loss.

kristine said...

I'm sorry to hear of your loss. It sounds as though God was listening when she asked for some more time...

LutherLiz said...

I'm sorry for you guys and for Gloria. I'm glad that there was a little more time and a peaceful end.

Anonymous said...

Oh, Emilie, what a sad time for your family. You'll certainly miss your Uncle Bruce, and you'll be busy comforting your Dad, too (it's hard to see that generation go). My two recommendations are slog through this public part of grieving and then cry hard when you do get the chance (late at night with Steve). --Laura S.

Unknown said...

I am so sorry, Em, for you and your family. He sounds like he had a very loving life, and was much loved in return.

EDH said...

Our hearts and prayers are with you and your family, Em. I'm so sorry for your loss.