Saturday, May 25, 2019
George, I see you there.
The first time we met was over 30 years ago with your inquisitive smile and strong hand shake. It was not long before we were hanging out together getting into trouble around PA, including visiting your Dad on his farm just long enough to make him little crazy. Soon are friendship would set a great bond like that of brothers, of course I would always be the younger better looking one.
George, I see you there, Husband and Father.
As a new Husband to Shelley with that special smile you had when you spoke of her. This would be lamented in love as you became family when your love grew even larger with the arrival of your two great children. I know, as I was privileged in being asked to babysit on special occasions giving you and Shelley some "you time."
George, I see you there.
So many adventures, playing hockey, golf tournaments, public awareness events, Chile cooking contests, bowling fundraisers it was endless. But what I remember most is the is quiet times, like at your lake house in the summer putting up the siding while our kids played in the water and the Hot tub. My sons are 22 and 24 years old and still refer to you as "Uncle George".
George, I see you there.
Another after midnight, early morning "call in" for both of us as we lived close to the base. I can see you running across the four lane road by the headlights of the Ambulance I just pulled out. You had that 2:30 am crazy hair which you tried to hide under your touque only to make you look more like "Yvon of the Yukon".
You poor bastard, your hair was never your friend!
George, I see you there, making it work.
Day, night or early morning we bore witness to what life could throw at us. We saw many raw terrible things with people at the worst or remaining moments of their lives. Some so terrible we never spoke of them again. While some unbelievable crazy calls would be stories to tell over again to cut the tension working Ambulance calls brought. As bad as a call got, you never backed off George. You made it work and we're ready for the next call, whatever it may be. The work and "call ins" took you away from your family a lot which you always tried to find the balance..
Thank you Shelley for your sacrifice and sharing George with all of us.
George, I could not have asked for a more intelligent, passionate, caring and thoughtful friend or brother. You have given me countless cherished memories.
I pity those who were never blessed to have had the chance to meet you.
You will always be in my thoughts until it is my turn for the next life when George, I will see you there...
Neil Moreau - Comox Vancouver Island
