Karaya and rpm.... My condolences to you both. Life is is filled with loss, but the memories help ease the suffering.
I never met my paternal grandmother, she died in 1935 from Bright's Disease, leaving three kids behind (17, 13 and 11). My paternal grandfather died in 1975 at the age of 89.. For some reason, I was never especially close with him. Nonetheless, his loss was painful to me. I took emergency leave to attend his funeral.
However, I was extremely close with my maternal grand parents as they owned the duplex townhouse we lived in for several years. We had the second floor apartment. I spent much of my early days with them. My grandfather (Pop-pop) died in 1958, but I remember him so clearly. "Nanny", as we called my grandmother, lived beyond her 93rd birthday, passing away in 1994. I was the apple of her eye, being born on her birthday and being her first grand child. She and Pop-pop spoiled me without shame.
I've buried my dad and my mother is now 80 years old, but healthy and active. My own grandchild knows me as Pop-pop... So the wheel turns.
Karaya and rpm, you will find that the pain gradually subsides, but the memories and photos will bring you comfort forever. Don't just mourn what you've lost, but celebrate what they gave you.
My regards,
Widewing
