

Good-bye Gert


Another wake and funeral

I just learned that a very close friend of our family passed away.  Gert was 90 years old and had been suffering from dementia.  She had been our babysitter for many years.  She was also the secretary for our parish.  I remember getting sick while in grade school.  I would be brought over to her office to wait until my Mom came and got me.

Her daughter Sharon was like another big sister to me and my little sister Terry.  We were in her wedding.  Her older daughter’s name is Gina and Terry is her godmother.  Sharon and my sister Anne Marie are really close.  We adored Sharon when we were little and we still adore her.

Gert’s husband, Don, died when I was in second grade.  He was a big man with a big heart.  He and Gert used to give us the biggest stuffed animals for Christmas.  Often there wasn’t room for me and Terry and the animals in our bed.

Gert’s son Denny got stuck with me one afternoon when I was in first grade.  The poor guy didn’t know what to do with me so he taught me to tell time.  We still laugh about that.

Once again I am heading back to Batavia for a funeral.  It feels like the world is changing at a pace I can barely keep up with.  And while it is difficult to say good-bye to anyone, it is the cycle of life.

So I will keep Gert’s memory alive in my heart.  And maybe I will have to go buy some really big stuffed animals for my great-nieces and nephews.

Categories: General
Gina Peca

6 Responses

  1. Mer says:

    I turned to your blog this morning after dealing with some losses recently, knowing for certain that I’d find comfort in your optimism, your strength and your simple way or reminding the world that life goes on…

    Gina, my heart goes out to you, your husband and your family for the loss of Gert and in finding out that there are still many uphill battles for you to fight in keeping your husband healthy.

    You are an inspiration. Thank you for putting yourself out there. Best wishes for patience and peace as you continue on your journey.

  2. Patty Petro says:

    I’m so sorry Gina! Have a safe trip….sounds like you’ll be remembering some very good times and people!

  3. Gina Peca says:

    Hi Patty, Thank you so much for writing. you are always so kind. I hope to see you soon.

  4. Gina Peca says:

    Hi Mer,
    Your message meant so much to me. Sometimes I feel like I’m on the edge of a cliff. But when I read your note it made me feel that I am not alone. I’m sorry that you are having to deal with losses. Know that we are in this together. Gina

  5. amy says:

    Go buy those animals in memory of Gert. What a great thing to pass along. They sound like wonderful families that has given you happy memories. She is telling tales with you dad right now. Safe travels.

  6. MaryK says:

    Gina, so sorry to hear you are on the road again.If you come back with stuffed animals we will finda way to decorate around them! Memories do make the best accessories.