Rest in peace John...

About 13 years ago, one of Darlene's co-workers found out we have no family in Calgary and invited us into her home to enjoy a Christmas dinner with her family. That's when we met the hostess' sister and her husband - Hazel and John. We really made fast friends with this wonderful couple and got together with them often. John was a very tall man, about 6'7" and sported a long, ZZ-Top-esque beard. He looked like a rough kind of guy, but I tell you - he had a heart of gold and was one of the kindest, gentlest men I've ever met. He was funny as hell, had a raunchy sense of humour, was honest, down-to-earth and was a Habs fan to boot. We may have only known John for a relatively short time, but we felt a strong bond with him and his lovely wife Hazel.

So it was with a very heavy heart that we watched him go through a bout with hepatitis a few years ago - which he overcame, and most recently - liver cancer. The cancer was too much. He only lasted a few months past the diagnosis and passed away last weekend. We attended a memorial for John today. It was so great to hear all of the people whose lives he touched talk about Big John, the gentle giant. I can speak for Darlene as well when I say we will miss you John. I regret that I never had a chance to say goodbye. When we get together again for our little friend gatherings, we'll be sure to think and talk about you with fond memories.

See you in the next life..........