Sep 18 2008
RIP – Fred McDonald
Today is the day of Uncle Fred’s funeral. Well my great uncle… A man I only have fond memories of, a genuinely nice guy and a big influence on my life – not directly – but through his influence on my dad. As well as the immediate family (you know who you are if you are reading this) I feel for my dad today. I grew up with stories of my dad’s childhood – many centred around Fred. And Fred seemed to figure somewhere in just about all of them. Amongst other things Fred taught him to drive, they spent a number of years in the TA together, and have always been close…
My dad hasn’t just lost his uncle, he’s lost his last real link with his own parents, and he’s lost a man who was as much a big brother figure and a friend to him as anything else… Fred taught him, Fred looked out for him, Fred helped shape him…
I hate funerals, and if I’m honest avoid them unless I feel affected closely. This is one I would have liked to have been at – I would have been at – if it were possible. I wish I could have been in Liverpool today to pay my respects and say my own farewells…
Goodbye Uncle Fred – you were a great guy – we were all honoured to know you!
