View of Montreal from Columbarium
Marie and Patrick, Columbarium, Montreal
Cesar and Gary, Columbarium, Montreal
Patrick Penagos-Steward, our little angel
It has been over three weeks since I last posted. Here in Montreal and beyond we all still mourn for Patrick. His death, like a pebble thrown into a still pond where the ripples of despair sweep out in all directions, has affected many people but we are finding solace in the thought of our little Angel watching over us. And now, with the passing of Easter, the coldest days of winter have retreated north and spring buds and fresh green grass remind us daily of a new beginning - life and love and peace are all new born. For Marie and I it was a real honour and pleasure to meet and spend this time with Fernanda's family: her father Cesar and her mother Rosalia, her brother Cesar and sisters Anais and Rocio. We explored the city together on foot and metro, worshipped at St Patrick's Basilica and visited with Patrick at Mont-Royal Cemetary. He has a niche in a beautiful Columbarium that overlooks the city - it is peaceful and, although still in its late winter grey, will be a green and inviting spot to visit during the summer. I had the opportunity to take Cesar and his son out one very warm day earlier this month to visit the property in the Eastern Townships. They were both amazed at the views and the fact we still had snow! It was a sight to see them struggling up the driveway in summer shoes through three feet of snow, the temperatures nudging 80F, and the sound of rushing water tumbling off the rock face. We drank from the stream and dried our socks in the hot sun before returning to Montreal, stopping off for a quick view of Mt Megantic Provincial Park. Cesar and Rosalia finished their month here with a day trip with Fernanda to Quebec City. And now, as they return to Mexico City, we wish them many blessings and happiness - May the sun always shine on your windowpane; May a rainbow be certain to follow each rain; May the hand of a friend always be near you; and May God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you! (An old Irish prayer) We will see you again in December! To our families and friends in the United States, Canada and Mexico who have sent flowers and cards I would like to thank you all on behalf of Philippe and Fernanda. God bless you all! gws
Un ángel te ayuda,
Un ángel es algo celestial
Phil and Fernanda, Columbarium, Mont-Royal
Marie & Rosalia, Mount Royal Funeral Complex
organ, St Patrick's Basilica, Montreal
St Patrick's Basilica, Montreal
The two Cesars, eastern Townships, Quebec, now official Canadians after visiting Tim Hortons...
