RIP, dear cousin Raymond
It is heart wrenching to have to come to terms when a family member — especially a much loved and much respected family member — passes away.
My first cousin Raymond Gassi went to Heaven last week. While it was unexpected in many ways, Raymond had breathing issues over the past few years and needed to have an oxygen tank at his nearby side. In spite of being limited in activity, Raymond carried on in his work as a talented artist and writer of poetry and logic.
I will be forever thankful that I was part of a group of family members and long time friends who helped Raymond celebrate his 75th birth day in August of this year. Just as I was a part of his 70th five years ago and just as he came to my 70th three years ago.
Raymond and I did not become overly close until several years back when he and his sweetheart wife Linda Strom and their lovable dog Holly moved back to Sault Ste. Marie from western Canada. And I got to love him and respect him even more upon his return home.
A singer, songwriter and all around exceptional musician like a select few others from Sault Ste. Marie, Raymond played in countless bands in the Sault, Toronto and elsewhere over the years.
He was also a big Major League Baseball fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Montreal Canadiens of the National Hockey League. In fact, he once named one of his house bands “the Montreal Canadiens.”
Raymond was an educated, very intelligent person who showed his love to those who he loved. Loyal and lovable and at times reckless and free spirited, Raymond loved a cold beer and the odd toke or two. Mostly, he loved life and he deeply loved those who he cared for.
I am going to miss Raymond. Going to miss getting messages from him. Going to miss hearing him speak with such eloquence, understanding and knowledge.
Love you, my cousin Raymond. I thought the world of you, my talented cousin. And I always will.
But you already knew that, my cousin, my friend. RIP, Raymond. Until we meet again, dear cousin.
POST SCRIPT: A celebration of Raymond’s life will be held on Saturday, November 15 from 4-9 p.m. at the Water Tower inn. See below for details.
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Oh Randy, thank you so much for that loving tribute. All of those feelings were mutual. He was so grateful for you.
Linda
Aw … and I loved the love that you and Raymond had (have) for each other.