Remembering Bruce.

Yesterday we received the devastating news that my uncle Bruce had passed away. It was completely unexpected; he was just 67 years old.

Bruce was genuinely one of the loveliest people in the world. He was gentle, kind, funny, clever, generous, a brilliant host, and a notoriously terrible singer. He had been living with Parkinson's for over a decade, and faced it with patience and quiet determination. I will forever admire his strength. He was amazing.

One of my most treasured memories is of visiting my Auntie and Uncle in Spain in the summer of 2001. We spent a week lounging in the pool, playing Scrabble, laughing, reminiscing, taking long lunches (we're talking hours here), and hanging out with JD the Dalmatian; it was a brilliant trip. I choke up when I think about the night Bruce, Dad, and JD all fell asleep outside while looking at the stars. On the rare occasion I get to witness the night sky glittering, I think of Bruce. And I always will.

The last time I saw him was just after Christmas last year. We took Coops out for a spin and had a lovely long chat. He cracked jokes, listened while I babbled on about my job, and told me his plans for the house in Spain; it was simply perfect. In hindsight, I wish I'd said more, asked more, spent a little longer with him, but I'm grateful for the time we did have.

Brucie baby, thank you for being the most wonderful uncle to me, and an incredible person to everyone, especially your family and close friends. We were all blessed to have known you, and will always cherish the amazing memories of you.

Peace x