Wednesday, July 15, 2015
Dear Fe and Ben, My sincere condolences go out to you and all of your family with the sudden and sad loss of your Oscar. It’s my true hope that you’re able to take some measure of comfort from Oscar’s love for you both, his “joie de vivre”, and his legacy of cherished memories. Oscar was very special to me and I always looked forward to seeing him weekly at Mass. He left his mark on me in so many incredible ways, most especially with that wonderful sparkle in his eyes that not only conveyed an unending pleasure in even the simplest of things in day to day life but also with a fabulous sense of humour that he just itched to get out and to share with us all. He also had a ready and big smile that drew you in and was nothing short of endearing. Oscar had the truly warmest “two hand” handshake I’ve ever known. He never just shook your hand. Rather, he took your hand within both of his hands and while expressing his best wishes for a good weekend or week ahead, he managed to make you feel special in his world. So unique. So absolutely uncommon. Silly, I know, but Oscar also brought much cheer to me with his jackets, no matter the season. He had THE best – and the most – jackets I’ve ever known a man to own. His jackets were as pristine as they were varied in scope of interest and I loved seeing what he’d turn up in next at Mass each week. Nothing will ever again be the same without Oscar here with us. Like you, I’ll very much miss him. I’ll also always fondly remember him. Please know that I’m thinking of you. Barb (Barb Dunlop)
