A beautiful evening to die.

Barclay died at 6:57 on Juneteenth. A fitting day for him as he was all about equality, diversity, and inclusion. He was a conscientious objector during the Vietnam War because of his Quaker beliefs. So Juneteenth was a perfect backdrop.

We were all there ( both kids and I), and it was a cool sunny evening. Death is never pretty, but he died as peacefully as expected.

At some point, we will take his ashes to the Lake Tahoe area and scatter them. There are quite a few things to take care of, but I figure I’ll get to them when I do. We had all the important stuff done, but now there’s still misc like removing him from different accounts and such. I’m not in any hurry, and like I said, I’ll get to it eventually.

I miss him. I guess after being with someone for 55 years, that’s expected. In some ways, we had a storybook life of adventure and travels. Money-wise, we never did that one very well, but here we are.

My daughter was amazing in the last few days, taking care of medication every 2 hours and keeping track of things. The nurses were all impressed with her efficiency. My son is having a harder time with it all, but he’s been here helping do stuff and move things back to where they go since we had a lot of equipment in here. Everyone grieves differently, and I suspect him keeping busy will help him.

Still smiling! He loves his Triumph motorcycle.

Up at Tahoe House in Tahoe City, ca

In healthier times.

42 thoughts on “A beautiful evening to die.

  1. Chris, I am so sorry to hear this. My heart breaks for you and your kids. Sending you hugs and peaceful thoughts.

    Carole

  2. I hope memories of all of your good times bring you comfort now. I will be thinking of you and your familiy.

  3. I wish I had the words to say that could bring comfort. I’m wishing you comfort, strength, and peace. You guys had a beautiful life together. So glad your kids are so awesome. A wonderful reflection of you and Barclay. Kim

  4. I am so sorry for your loss of your partner. 55 years is a long time but never enough. Yes, things will get done eventually but you can take them at your own time. Hugs

  5. sending best wishes…and always think of those years together as a gift, and cherish them, do not shy away from them in grief.

  6. I’m so very sorry for your loss.  I did think you had a fairy tale marriage because you loved and liked each other that was so obvious from your photos and posts.    Take care of yourself.    

  7. i am so sorry. His passing came quickly. Grief takes many different forms for each person. My thoughts are with you, your son and daughter.

  8. So sorry to hear of your loss .May all the good memories of Barclay, family life and adventures together bring comfort .Sending thoughts and prayers to you all .Take care xx

  9. So sad for the three of you. You will miss Barclay so much, but will help each other along. I have been married for 55 years also. So sorry, I wish it could have been different.

  10. I’m so sorry for your loss Chris. I hope you will find comfort in good memories and in your children. Lean into their support right now.

  11. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. I’m an infrequent (maybe even first -time commenter). As someone who has also been happily married for almost five decades I can appreciate the gravity of your loss. Love never ends, but sadly life must.

  12. We want to reach out with words to comfort or do something but they are all lame and useless. The only thing that matters is Love. I am glad he had a marvelous life and you had the fortune to be part of it. I am glad to see all the Love in the comments here. Hugs.

  13. Barco was truly one of the good ones. His passing is a loss for all of us and he will be sorely missed by all that knew him. Our world needs more Barclay-type people, especially now. He was a role model and mentor to so many…I learned so much from him and will miss him dearly. My heart goes out to you and the Fam…glad to know he passed peacefully.

    RIP Brother 😦

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