Tuesday, January 10, 2023
My Uncle Bill was such a big part of my life, especially my childhood. He was my “cool” Uncle. The Uncle with the greatest smile that lit up a room when he walked into it. He was larger than life to me as a small child and I looked up to him not only because of his height (over six feet) but because I loved him and he was so much fun. He used to take me for drives and I would sit right beside him as close as I could get and look up at him with a big smile on my face. The black Mustang Fastback that he worked on in his garage was simply the greatest car I had ever seen. Every time I walked past that car my heart skipped a beat. My love of the Mustang came from my Uncles passion for this spectacular car. Uncle Bill loved football. I never understood the game but I was happy to just sit there with him while he watched. He bought me an awesome Dallas Cowboys Tony Dorset football T with the number 33 on the back. To this day, 33 is my favourite number. Whenever I hear songs from “The Band” it always brings back memories for me, and it always will.
Our families got together for so many holidays and special days over the years. He showed my Mother and I the ultimate gift of love when he came and helped us care for my dying Father in 2008. After that time, everyone went back to their lives and contact was less. When I reached out years later, I found out that my beloved Uncle had Alzheimer’s. I felt so much guilt and regret for not staying closer in touch. Before COVID my husband Mike and I went to visit Uncle Bill and Aunt Fran. My cousin Jeff was there as well and we all enjoyed take out egg rolls from our favourite Chinese restaurant. This is the last time I saw my Uncle and I’m so happy to have that memory. There had been a few phone calls after this time and it made me happy to hear his voice. Rest in peace Uncle Bill! I will hold your memory in my heart forever.
