At Rest, At Last

Gram finally died early this morning. My aunt said that yesterday she really looked awful and they even had to give her some morphine because she was "laboring," so we figured it would be soon. The interesting thing about today is that it is the exact date that her son (my uncle) died in 1963—the one she had donated her kidney to. Some kind of karma going on there.

I guess not too surprisingly, it was much more upsetting to learn that Gram had had the stroke 2 weeks ago than it was to find out that she'd died today. We've been expecting it—and, yes, hoping for it—for all these days now, so it's really a relief to know that she's not suffering anymore. I don't know whether I believe in any kind of Heaven in the traditional sense, but I like to imagine Grandpa up there saying, "Sophie, vat took you so long?!" (He died in 1985.)

Comments

[Tammy]

So glad she's finally resting. My condolences to you and your family.

[steve]

My condolences to you and your family.

[susan]

Here's to Gram. To her long happy life and all the joy she brought to you and your family.

[TwoBusy]

I'm sorry for your loss -- and I really respect your perspective on this.

[Janeen]

May she rest in peace.

[Jeff]

Condolences to you and your family. Thank you for including us during this difficult time.

[Kathy]

I'm so sorry for your loss.

My grandmother died in April and died on the exact same day as my grandfather had 18 years earlier. I think maybe your Grandma was waiting for that day, we believe that my grandmother held on for that reason too.

[James]

She left the world richer for her presence; we have proof of that.

[Elena]

My condolences to your whole family. Your grandmother can rest in peace at last.

[Susan]

My condolences as well. It was enjoyable to read about someone who had such a zest for life.

[Tonya]

Peace to your grandma, Karen. And to you and your family.

Last year, my mother died on her 70th birthday, which also happened to be Mother's Day. As sad as it all was, we do joke now that she planned it that way.

[Laura]

I am glad she is resting. And she probably is glad too. Hugs.

[j]

Condolences during this bittersweet time. I couldn't help but smile at the comment about your Grandpa ... we often speak of the reunion our loved ones must encounter. If I had a dollar for every deck of cards and roll of nickels we've burried - no, I am richer with the thought that they really do get together, bantering and kibitzing at the card table, as they did in life.

[Tammy]

I'm so sorry for your loss, but happy that your grandmother's suffering is over. It sounds like she lived a long, happy life, surrounded by people who loved her. It doesn't get any better than that.

[Liz]

Both of my grandmothers died at age 93 on November 2nd, two years apart. They didn't know each other well so there was no holding on til that magic date, just weird symetry of the universe. I dread the day every year....Think of the party they are having now!! L.

[Di]

Condolences...and vicarious relief for you.

I think it's weird that even when you are expecting it, the sadness will creep up on you at the strangest times. I remember the year after my grandmother died at the age of 91 having lived a wonderful life and lived long enough to see three great-grandchildren...on Mother's Day and at the age of about 64 said, "This is my first Mother's Day without a Mom."

[Carla]

My condolences to you, also. I've been out of town and just read about your grandma. I know it is a bittersweet blessing.

[Risottogirl]

Oh Karen, I'm so sorry for your loss. Even when it is expected, or a relief, it is still so hard. From your description, it sounds like she was quite a lady!

[Elisson]

May you be comforted amidst the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.

[terrilynn]

I'm so behind, but I wanted to express my belated condolences. Wishing peace to you and your family as you go through this sad time.