In Memoriam

Robert L. "Bob" Edwards - bobe

3/14/1958 – 4/30/2010

 

Those we love don't go away.
They walk beside us every day,
Unseen, unheard, but always near,
Still loved, still missed and very dear.
- Anonymous

“If you get a chance, give me a call. We can meet up for supper.”

How could I have known where these simple words would lead? A one-time stop to break bread began a lifetime of friendship compacted into too few years. The proverbial gentle giant, he was funny, insightful and just plain goofy, sometimes all at the same time. He was the dreamer that never grew up. I’ve heard life is partly what we make it and partly what is made by the friends we choose. Having Bob as a close friend, these words couldn’t be more true. He surely made life interesting.  
 
Thoughtful and sensitive, his gift to the world was the written word. Bob was a talented storyteller as well and no memorial to Bob would be complete without a “Bob” story. He would want to be remembered with a smile on your face, especially at my expense. Here goes.

As his body failed him, his sense of humor stayed strong. Mary and I were visiting Bob and Annette at the hospice Bob was in five days before his passing. We didn’t know the area so we had to rely on advice from Bob and Annette about a restaurant. Our plan was to treat Annette. Several locations had been suggested and then Bob brought up another place.
Annette looked at Bob and said,” That’s one of the most expensive places in town Bob.”
Bob shot me a look, turned back to Annette and replied, “What do you care? It’s his money.”

Goodbye my friend. I miss you greatly.  As sad as I am that you’re gone though, the joy of having known you far outweighs the pain.

 

Submitted by Brent Evans