Goodbye, Grandpa Hubert
My Grandpa died yesterday. I only found out he was in the hospital the day before. This is the first grandparent I’ve lost. These things always suck, but man does it suck when you’re far from your family. I talked to my Dad this morning and he said he doesn’t want me to worry about getting there for the funeral. Obviously I want to be there, but it’s hard on such short notice.
You want to know something weird? The obituary is online – and I just realised that Grandpa Hubert had the same birthday as me. I never knew that in my whole life. How did I not know that? It’s such a neat connection. I wish I’d known. I’d have made sure to call him on it.
Edited to add: Mom’s just confirmed that the date is wrong there. His birthday was March 16, the day after mine. I’m a little disappointed, but it makes more sense that I didn’t know!
Ptinutz
July 6, 2012 — 1:26 pm
All my thoughts are with you. I lost my aunt recently and it was heartbreaking to be there and the rest of my family in Switzerland
Josh
July 6, 2012 — 2:34 pm
I’m so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you and your family. I am also very afraid of these sorts of things happening while I am here. It’s terrible being so far away from home during these moments.
Tricia
July 6, 2012 — 3:49 pm
Kris, I’m so sorry for your loss. It must be hard being so far away. I’m sure that your family appreciates that you have such a good and happy life where you are and know that you are with them in spirit, even when you can’t be with them in person.
Mel
July 6, 2012 — 4:32 pm
My thoughts are with you, Kris.
Kris
July 6, 2012 — 4:42 pm
Thanks guys. I’ve been talking to my sister all day – she’s in LA which is still pretty far, but not as far as me. I’m doing what I can to help get her there, at least.
Mom
July 7, 2012 — 12:24 am
I can’t believe that I didn’t remember his birthday is the same as yours! I also see that he only had the one brother left (JB). You have met Arthur, Faye, and Nadine (she is the one down in KY). Your grandpa was a good man and had a rough life. I never once heard him say a bad word about anyone and I’m pretty sure I never heard him raise his voice (altho I’m sure your dad & aunt deb probably remember otherwise). I think the thing I remember most about him is his smile. He sure loved you, Amy & Ant.
Emily
July 7, 2012 — 5:04 am
Thinking of you lots, Kris. My beloved Grandmother died when I was in Sydney back when I was travelling 15 years ago, and I couldn’t get back for the funeral either. Horrible. BUT you’re so good at all the talking and contacting and almost-being-there, which is great for everyone, I’m sure.
(Can’t imagine how it was for all those who lived so far from family and friends when phoning and so one wasn’t around).
Max
July 7, 2012 — 5:20 am
Im so sorry, Kris–my granddad (who was also my namesake–“Big Max” to my “Little Max”) passed away about ten years ago and it floored me. I know it is rough to be away, but your family knows that you would be there if you could. You’re good people. 🙂