Graham

Graham died just over two weeks ago . He was 55 years of age . I had met him only about five or six times , but early this summer I had the privilage to get to know him a lot better .I saw him in action as a dad with his three grown sons . His deep concern and interest in their lives and welfare was something to behold and a great example to all fathers .
At his funeral service we learned about his life , growing up in Dover , his days spent on the beach and among the rockpools . An outdoor man who seemed to carry with him
an everlasting Summer . Most of the photographs of his life fearured him wearing his famous shorts and sandles and sun tan .
I'm sure it was no coincidence that the day of his funeral was one of the loveliest sunny days this summer . Even the wedding of his eldest son , five years ago , is still remembered as the hottest day in Ireland in many years . In the chapel during his funeral service his three-year-old grandaughter flitted about the chapel like a little pink butterfly .
Graham's favourite sport was , of course , cricket , the only remaining truly Summer sport .
It is hard to know the right words of sympathy to express to his dear wife and wonderful sons except that he will always be remembered by all those who knew him as a man of great courage .
Truly a dad for all seasons especially Summer .
Graham RIP.