While we are not sure of just all that happened to him during the past four weeks, I know he battled multiple infections, a surgical wound that just wouldn't heal, difficulty eating and shortness of breath. It was just like deadly dominoes - one thing after another.
He was in good spirits when we visited him on January 2nd. But he was back in the hospital (after a trip home for a few days at Christmas) and you could tell that he was tired of all this. A short conversation, a few smiles and some laughter - hugs for his wife and for him and then we left.
And now he's gone. It just seems so very unreal to both of us. Dave considered him his best friend and they certainly had many fun times together. And as couples we also shared many fun times - a trip to the movies, or a night out for dinner, or a game of dominoes at our dining room table or theirs. It was "just" a good friendship….one that began years ago when we all lived in Oconomowoc and our kids were little. One that re-started after we moved back to Milwaukee and "found" them again. One that will not be replaced.
The guys enjoyed lunch "meetings" at different Milwaukee area restaurants on a hunt to find the best Reuben sandwich, two guys had additional meetings for breakfast and probably a lot of "off color" jokes. There were several fishing trips to Canada together, toasts with a glass of Jack Daniels… none of that will continue.
But oh the memories will continue …. and there will be smiles. While in tears this afternoon Dave said "Damn….the next time it was his turn to pick up the tab!" Tears, smiles, memories and hugs…..that will get us through and, in time, I hope bring comfort to his family.
Saying goodbye is never, ever easy. Even when you sort of "expect" it. No one expected this.
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