WE'LL MISS YOU ROY!

On August 22nd, Michelle's brother Roy passed away suddenly and unexpectedly, it was a tragic loss that hit the family hard.
Yesterday, we all headed to Roy's farmhouse outside of Nanaimo, BC for an afternoon CELEBRATION OF LIFE... it was fantastic. Over 100 of Roy's close friends, old co-workers and family from all parts came to the house to share stories and fond memories of Roy. Ofcourse there was sadness but mainly there was laughter and that I'm sure is what Roy would have wanted.

I only met Roy a handful of times as he lived on the Island and rarely came in to Vancouver but man, was he a funny guy. He was a man's man, big into hunting, fishing, camping and working on his farmhouse (a shabby one level house, turned into a beautiful two level home - mainly done by him). He liked things done his way and he wasn't afraid to tell you that, no, it's fair to say that Roy lived life to the fullest and had a good time doing it. Roy was also big on visitors, his door was always open, his kitchen was always full and his hot tub was always ready. He (and his wife Debbie) were always happy to have guests, share in some laughter and they always made you feel welcome. Michelle and I were planning on visiting in October, it's a shame we never got to go sooner.

I think the best part for me personaly, in this whole "celebration of life" day that we experienced, is seeing people come up to share stories and memeories of Roy - Roy's daughter, his brother Robby, his sister Teri and his best friend Elvis. I kid you not, Roy's best friend is an Elvis Impersonator who gave an amazing speech and even sang two songs - the King is alive and well and living on Vancouver Island.

Now that we are home and the day has passed, it's kinda hit home again. I wish I had known Roy better and Michelle wishes she could have spent more time with Roy but we are both happy with our memories of him as those will last forever. We'll miss you Roy.