Dawne and Family,

I know today will not be easy and neither will tomorrow, please know I am thinking of you and have been for the last few days.

G.A. and I were not close in our adult lives but we grew up together and that solidified the little bond that we had. I started thinking about memories I had as a child. If you read my “Chapter 22” tribute post on Facebook for my brother, about how we’d sit at the corner with the white radio threatening kids who rode their bike down our street.... well Shawn Jimmerfield was also with us that day and the little kid we threatened was G.A..  It’s funny to think the three of them would become best friends.

I also remember the time we were playing at the park at the end of my road and G.A. spit in my hair. I went home crying and I remember you walking him down to our house by his ear and making him apologize. You are a good mom! I laugh about what we did as kids now and even treasure these moments.

As you know over 6 years ago I moved back from Buffalo NY. I started immersing myself in my fathers yard work. I remember specifically digging out a bush in my front yard. I couldn’t get it out.  The roots were thick. G.A. strolled into the yard that day. He helped me dig out that bush and then another one. He sat on the grass and talked about life and starting over and then off he went. I only saw him every now and then since.

One of those times I saw him walking in Amherstburg a few years back and gave him a ride to his house in Lasalle. I remember him telling me about the front yard. He was proud of the rocks out front. He talked about his daughter during that ride. He was so proud of her too. On a side note, I always wanted to thank you for facilitating little meetings with Dave and Addy, even if it was a brief moment in the car. (I’m sorry he made you cry asking Addy for a liver from Santa for Christmas) Dave loved that little girl. He talked about her often too.

I know when my brother died the most comforting messages were those that spoke of memories or spoke of my brothers character. So you should know this...

I always saw GA, as a “live in the moment” guy. He was always up for adventure at any time. We would often joke and say, "Let’s hop on a spaceship and fly to the moon and GA would be first in line."  I live my life very structured, planned, constantly trying to be in control. So that is my lesson I am taking from G.A.. To live more in the moment, loosen the reins a little and do more of what makes me happy.

Dawne, you are like family to me and I am so sorry for this incredible loss. I don’t know what it’s like to lose a son, but I know what it’s like to lose a parent. So please give Addy a couple of extra hugs from me. I’ll see you this afternoon before my night shift. Sending love and strength to get through the next few days. Love you all~ Aimee